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Marshmallow Root

BotanicalmucilageLimited dose evidence

Also known as: Althaea officinalis, althaea root, marsh mallow root

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Marshmallow root is the dried root of Althaea officinalis, a European plant unrelated to the confection that borrowed its name. The root is rich in mucilage polysaccharides and has been used traditionally as a demulcent for the throat, stomach, and urinary tract. It appears in gut-soothing, throat, and bladder-comfort formulas, often paired with slippery elm and licorice. Human research consists mainly of cough-syrup studies; there are no controlled trials of the root for digestive outcomes, so the dose range is drawn from traditional and product use.

Research summary

Mucilage forms a protective film over mucous membranes; no systemic mechanism is established.

Gut & digestionImmune

Dosage

Daily amounts, of compound.

Lowest studiedTypical rangeHighest studiedUpper limit
500 mg500–1,500 mg——

500 to 1,500 mg of root powder daily with plenty of water. Space away from other oral medications since the mucilage may slow their absorption.

Source material: dried root powder

Format suitability

  • Capsule
  • Powder
  • Tablet
  • Softgel
  • Gummy
  • Liquid

Mild, slightly sweet; forms a gel in liquids.

Formulation notes

May delay absorption of co-administered ingredients.

Sources

  1. Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis L.) and Its Potency in the Treatment of Cough. (Mahboubi M 2020)PubMed

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