Marshmallow Root Tea Side Effects

Marshmallow, or Althaea officinalis, is a perennial herb indigenous to Asia, from where it has spread to Southeast Europe and North Africa. The marshmallow thrives in soils that are uncultivated and damp. It is now also naturalized to the eastern part of the United States as an ornamental garden plant.

The name "althaea" comes from the Greek "althainein", which means to heal. Both its roots and leaves are used in alternative medicinal practices and they are not known to cause any adverse reactions.

Compounds and Effects

All the plant parts, but especially the root, have high mucilage content. The marshmallow also contains pectin and starch. When mixed in water, because of these components, it forms a smooth gel, which is used for medical purposes. Althaea officinalis has proven anti-inflammatory effects as well as hypoglycemic and immune stimulating properties, according to the PDR (Physician's Desk Reference) for Herbal Medicines.

Uses

Commission E, the German governmental body that regulates the herbal medicines sold on the market, approved marshmallow root for use in cases of inflammation of the gastric mucous membrane and for treating irritations of the mouth and pharynges. The plant has been used in popular medicine to treat diarrhea, insect bites and ulcers, but there is no scientific evidence to support these uses.

Safety

Marshmallow is considered safe for consumption and there are no documented, known side effects. However, as there haven't been any rigorous studies to attest and establish the safe levels of dosage and duration of treatment with marshmallow, it is better used with caution and medical advice is recommended, especially in the case of pregnant or breast-feeding women.

Adverse Reactions

There is concern that marshmallow may affect blood sugar levels, so diabetes and hypoglycemia sufferers should act with caution and consult a doctor before using the tea. Allergic reactions also may occur, although they are rare and not well documented.

Interactions

All herbal remedies should be taken with care as they may interfere with the absorption of other drugs or herbal supplements that are taken at the same time. Marshmallow tea acts by coating the stomach lining with its gel-like substance and this will delay absorption into the system of other drugs. A safe course of action is to take marshmallow tea two hours before or after other medications.

Preparation

Marshmallow root tea can be prepared from 2 to 5 tsp. of root that are left to soak in 5 oz. of hot water for one hour. Cold infusion can also be used to prepare the marshmallow root, by soaking 2 to 3 tsp. of the plant material in 5 oz. cold water for about two hours.

History

In the Arab countries marshmallow was known as a medicinal aid and used to make a poultice that was applied on skin to reduce inflammation. The ancient Romans, Egyptians, Syrians and Chinese used the marshmallow in food preparations, which is another testimony of the plant's safety for human consumption.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Marshmallow
• PDR for Herbal Medicines, Third Edition, Thomson's PDR, 2004
• Plants for a Future: Althaea officinalis