In the respiratory tract marshmallow decreases cough, speeds removal of mucus and helps to heal the tract.  In the stomach and intestines marshmallow protects the lining from ulceration.  Marshmallow also soothes the urinary tract and helps the skin to heal.  Natural health practitioners recommend marshmallow for a variety of needs including sore throat, colds, coughs, bladder infections, digestive ulcers, burns, and wounds.

Marshmallow can be found in a variety of different forms.  Dried root, powdered root and encapsulated root are available.  It is often used as a tea or drink.  Topically marshmallow can be mixed with water and applied directly to the skin or onto a poultice.  Marshmallow is found in formulas for cold or cough relief, urinary tract health and ulcers.  Commercial marshmallow preparations contain marshmallow, for the texture, and large quantities of sugar, for the taste.  Plain marshmallow root is not sweet tasting, as you might expect it to be.

Marshmallow may alter blood sugar levels by reducing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestine.  Therefore diabetics, hypoglycemic individuals and people using medication to regulate sugar levels should use marshmallow root with caution.  Marshmallow may also inhibit the absorption of other medications or supplements if they are taken at the same time.