Marshmallow

Botanical name: Althaea officinalis
Common name: Mallow, Mallards, Mauls, Schloss Tea, Mortification Root, Sweet weed
Part used: Root

Today most people are familiar with the confectionary Marshmallow but are unaware of its botanical namesake. The sap from the root of the Marshmallow plant was originally a vital ingredient in Marshmallow candies until it was replaced by gelatine and starch.

Marshmallow root was highly valued as a food and medicine by many cultures including the Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians.

The root contains high levels of a slippery substance called mucilage, which makes it particularly suitable for soothing a scratchy throat and easing dry, irritating coughs.

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