Marshmallow

Just about everyone at one point or another has sat around a fire and roasted a marshmallow, whether to make a s’more or to simply eat the sticky treat. It’s typically thought of as an empty-calorie snack, but did you know that marshmallow root — from which marshmallows are made — is actually full of health benefits?
The marshmallow root is the so-called mucilage material. The mucilage of the marshmallow is a valuable source of galacturonic acid, galactose, glucose, arabinose and rhamnose. Apart from mucilage compounds, marshmallow extracts also contain pectin, saccharose, asparagines, starch and flavonoid glycosides.

Benefits of Marshmallow Root:

Home Remedy for Sore Throat
Since ancient time, marshmallow root has been well known for its benefit as home remedy for sore throat. In modern time, it comes with reasons because marshmallow root contains certain compounds like antitussive that could help in decreasing the irritation occurs in the throat. That’s why, nowadays, marshmallow root is used as main ingredients in some medicines, in case you care with what you consume.

Helps with Skin Irritation
Marshmallow Root is best used topically to relieve skin irritation such as bug bites, skin ulcers, burns, abscesses, and more. Mucilage, a thick, gummy substance, found in marshmallow root reduces swelling and kills bacteria. The anti-inflammatory properties found in marshmallow root are a natural cure for eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Anti-Aging Agent
Tired of spending money on expensive anti-aging cream? If so, marshmallow root may be the answer. Mucilage, found in marshmallow root, is a natural way to keep skin hydrated. Hydration is important in skin care because it reduces fine lines and increases even-toned complexion.

Supports Digestion
Marshmallow root extract treats many digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, colic issues, and stomach ulcers. Not only will this herb provide immediate relief, but it also has long-term benefits. After only one month of consuming marshmallow root extract, the risk for stomach ulcers goes down significantly. Mucilage layers the inside of the digestive tract, preventing future irritation and stimulating tissue regeneration.

Pain Reliever
Whether the pain is a sore throat, cut, or a headache consuming marshmallow root will immediately sooth pain and reduce irritation. Salicylic acid, found in the herb, treats muscle pain and headaches.

Water Retention
Marshmallow root is a natural alternative to water pills. Its diuretic properties reduce fluid retention, which helps with overall bloating and swelling. Marshmallow root will increase urination, relieving discomfort. Due to increased urination, marshmallow root is also recommended for people with kidney stones and females, as their body often retains water during hormonal changes, such as PMS and menopause.

Heart Health
Consuming marshmallow root regularly increases the bodies “good” cholesterol, HDL. High HDL removes bad cholesterol, reducing the risk for heart diseases. Marshmallow root reduces heart disease through its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce acute and chronic inflammation. This herb is also known to prevent platelet aggregation, which is a clumping of platelets in the blood, also known as a blood clot.