Marshmallow Root Extract Review
When you think of marshmallow, you’re probably going to think of the puffy white treats that are perfect s’mores and hot chocolate. However, marshmallow actually has some potential health benefits that go much further than simply being a tasty treat you can eat.
In fact, the name would even imply what marshmallow can actually do. It’s Greek name Althea, literally means “to heal.” And while commercially available marshmallow no longer has any actual marshmallow root, you can still buy marshmallow root extract online or at your local store to reap the many health benefits. Speaking of benefits, what are the benefits of Marshmallow Root Extract?
Health Benefits of Marshmallow Root Extract
Marshmallow Root Extract has plenty of benefits, and it can be used every day if you find it works well for you. Some of the benefits of marshmallow root extract include:
— Pain Relief: Marshmallow root extract is known to be one of the most effective natural pain relief remedies. Not only can it be directly applied to cuts, wounds, bruises, and burns, but it can also be consumed to treat pain in the mucus membranes that line the respiratory tract. So if you’ve got a bad cold or flu, and are suffering from a sore throat, marshmallow root extract can be a life saver.
— Reduce Inflammation: To go along with what we briefly mentioned above, marshmallow acts as a natural demulcent. A demulcent is an agent that forms a soothing film of a mucous membrane, eliminating pain and inflammation in the membrane. This is especially useful for those that suffer from respiratory or digestive inflammation.
— Detoxification: Detoxification is always a confusing topic, but there’s some evidence that suggests that marshmallow can help the body naturally flush out toxic material in the body. The exact mechanism for why this occurs in unknown, but it may stem from the fact marshmallow is a diuretic.
— Digestive Support: Since marshmallow acts as a natural demulcent, it has a direct impact on the digestive system. Stomach ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, and upset stomach are all digestive conditions that can be improved upon by taking marshmallow. Even kidney stones are said to pass easier when marshmallow root extract is taken.
— Insect Bite Treatment: During the summer months, we all get bit by insects on a regular basis. Marshmallow can be applied topically as a poultice to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching. It is particularly useful for those nasty mosquito bites that we all tend to scratch open until they turn into cuts, which often scar.
Marshmallow may also be used to treat chapped skin, as well as pain and swelling of the feet and hands due to cold exposure. Other benefits may exist, but these are the only benefits that have been explored so far.
How is Marshmallow Root Used?
Marshmallow is typically used by herbalists in the form of a tea or cold infusion (tea with cold water). The infusion is used to treat many common ailments like inflammation, digestive issues, and more. Otherwise, you can apply marshmallow directly onto cuts, wounds, or areas of pain to numb the pain and to start the healing process.
Is Marshmallow Root Extract Safe?
Based on the evidence we’ve seen so far, there’s no evidence to suggest that marshmallow root extract is unsafe when taken by mouth. In some cases, it may cause low blood sugar levels, but that’s really the only concern. Diabetics may want to monitor their blood sugar levels if they take marshmallow.
In addition, it is not recommended that pregnant or nursing mothers take marshmallow simply because the effects are not entirely known yet. It’s best to be safe and just avoid it until more is known about marshmallow.
How to Buy Marshmallow Extract?
Marshmallow is readily available in online stores like Amazon, Wal-Mart, and many other of the major supplement sellers. You can find a month’s supply for only around $10-20, depending on the quality and the manufacturer.
Given the numerous benefits of marshmallow, this price is basically a steal. Although marshmallow may not be a groundbreaking supplement that’s going to totally change your life, it’s still a good supplement to have in the house.
