Why Natural Marshmallow Root, Not Store-Bought Marshmallows, May Help Your Cough
When we hear the word “marshmallow,” most of us think of the fluffy, sugary treats we roast over a campfire. But there’s another marshmallow—marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)—that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, especially soothing coughs. While store-bought marshmallows may be delicious, they won’t help your cough the way the natural marshmallow root can. Here’s why marshmallow root deserves a place in your home remedy cabinet, and why it differs from the marshmallows you’ll find on store shelves.
What Is Marshmallow Root?
Marshmallow root is a plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. For thousands of years, herbalists have used it to treat respiratory issues, digestive problems, and skin inflammation. The plant contains a thick, glue-like substance known as mucilage, which becomes gel-like when mixed with water. This mucilage is what gives marshmallow root its ability to soothe irritation, particularly in the throat and digestive tract.
The Benefits of Marshmallow Root for Coughs
- Soothing Irritation and Inflammation When you have a cough, especially a dry or irritated one, the mucilage in marshmallow root can coat your throat, creating a protective layer. This helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the irritation that triggers coughing fits.
- Natural Expectorant Marshmallow root is also believed to act as a natural expectorant, helping your body to expel mucus more easily. This is particularly helpful if your cough is productive (meaning you are coughing up phlegm), as it can help you clear congestion more effectively.
- Immune Support Marshmallow root contains flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds that can help bolster your immune system, speeding up recovery from colds or respiratory infections.
Why Store-Bought Marshmallows Won’t Help
The marshmallows we buy in stores today have little in common with the medicinal marshmallow root used in ancient times. Originally, marshmallow candies were made using extracts from the root, giving them some of the plant’s health benefits. However, modern marshmallows are made primarily from:
- sugar
- corn syrup
- gelatin
- artificial flavoring
While these sweet treats might be comforting during a cold, they lack the mucilage and active compounds found in marshmallow root. In fact, the high sugar content in store-bought marshmallows may irritate your throat and worsen your symptoms rather than alleviate them.
How to Use Marshmallow Root for Cough Relief
If you want to tap into the natural power of marshmallow root to soothe your cough, you can use it in several ways:
- Marshmallow Root Tea: This is one of the simplest ways to benefit from the herb. You can purchase dried marshmallow root from health food stores or online. Steep it in hot water for 10–15 minutes and drink it to help coat your throat and reduce coughing.
- Marshmallow Root Syrup: There are also herbal syrups available that contain marshmallow root extract. These are easy to use and often combined with other cough-soothing ingredients like honey.
- Tinctures and Capsules: If you prefer, marshmallow root is available in tincture or capsule form for a more concentrated dose of its active ingredients.
The Science Behind Marshmallow Root’s Effectiveness
Several studies suggest that marshmallow root can provide real relief for respiratory conditions. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that marshmallow root extract significantly reduced throat irritation and coughing in patients. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a promising natural remedy for a wide range of respiratory issues, from common colds to bronchitis.
To learn more, check out this summary from Everyday Health.
While store-bought marshmallows may satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re not going to do much to help a nagging cough. Natural marshmallow root, on the other hand, offers genuine soothing benefits. Its ability to coat the throat, reduce inflammation, and even support mucus clearance makes it a valuable tool for managing respiratory symptoms. Next time you feel a cough coming on, consider reaching for a cup of marshmallow root tea instead of a bag of marshmallows. Your throat will thank you!
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