Marsh Mallow Plant

Description

The Marsh Mallow has long been known for its healing properties. The name 'Althaea' derives from the Greek 'atho', meaning 'to cure'.

Among the Romans, Marsh Mallow were used as a vegetable and a delicacy. Pliny said, 'Whosoever shall take a spoonful of the Mallows shall that day be free from all diseases that may come to him'. Horace and Martial noted the laxative properties of the Marsh Mallow, both leaves and root, while Virgil wrote of the fondness of goats for the foliage of the Mallow.

In Syria it was used by poorer people and boiled and then cooked with onions on butter to form a palatable dish, while in the Middle Ages Marsh Mallow were used to treat sore throats or mouth ulcers. The flowers and leaves (as well as the roots) can also be eaten either in salads or boiled and fried.

The 'marshmallow' has been made from the root of this plant since the Egyptian times (although virtually all shop bought ones now are not!)

Marsh Mallow is a perennial, found in Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. It has soft, velvety leaves (on both sides), which have a serrated edge and are round / oval in shape. It has errect stems (that die down in Winter) and blooms with beautiful but pale lilac coloured flowers in August-September.

Marshmallow plants are traditional found in damp areas such as ditches and salt marshes and have very tough, thick, long tapering, white/yellow roots that contain a lot of mucilage.

• Perennial.
• Prefers a rich, moisture-retaining soil.
• Prefers partial sun but also grows well in shade or full sun.
• Reaches a height of 4 - 5 feet (120 - 150 cms).
• Plant 2 feet (60 cm) apart.
• Has pink or white flowers.
• Attractive to butterflies and bumble bees.
• Cut down once flowering is over.

• Culinary uses
• The root sap of this plant was used by the French to produce what is now known as marshmallow.
• The roots are said to be palatable if first boiled then fried with onions and butter.
• An extract of Marsh Mallow root was used to flavour the Mediterranean sweetmeat halva.

• Medicinal Uses
• The whole plant, particularly the root,produces a mild mucilage or gelatinous solution.
• Used to treat irritations of the mucous membrane, including asthma and bronchitis.
• Can be made into a gargle for mouth / throat ulcers.
• Can also be used to treat gastric ulcers.
• The leaves and a syrup made from the roots can be used to stimulate the kidneys.
• Marsh Mallow also has laxative properties and can be used to treat diarrhoea and constipation.
• Marsh Mallow is used in an ointment for chapped skin and chilblains.
• Leaves can be used to suppress inflamation.
• Can be used for coughs and hoarseness.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.

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How To...

How To Sow & Grow Herbs
Detailed advice on sowing and growing herbs outside and under protection. Includes information on watering and pest control.