Marshmallow

Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow

This plant is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is part of the Malvaceae family. The garden varieties are called HollyHocks. The whole plant contains a tacky, slimy substance known as mucilage, with the root of 2-3 year old plants containing the highest percentage. The root is often dried, sliced into discs, sold and then powdered to support healthy gastrointestinal function where irritation may be present. It has traditionally been used to support all mucosal membranes especially in the bronchioles, mouth, and intestines.