Traditional use for mouth and throat irritation with dry cough, and mild stomach and gut discomfort; no side effects reported at assessment
European Medicines Agency 2016, Althaeae radix · Source
Marshmallow Root
Althaea officinalis root
The root of the marsh mallow plant, rich in soft, gel-forming mucilage and recognized in Europe for soothing irritated mucous membranes.
EU-recognizedfor soothing irritated mucous membranes
Mucilagea soft, gel-forming plant fiber
Demulcenta classic soothing herb
Why we love it
Herbalists have long reached for marshmallow root as a gentle, soothing herb for the urinary tract. It rounds out the formula as a comforting companion to cranberry, D-mannose and uva-ursi.
What does the research show?
Soothing mucous membranes
Marshmallow root's official recognition is for irritation of the mouth and throat with dry cough, and for mild stomach and gut discomfort, based on long traditional use.
Studies
Human study tested in people Lab study a starting point, not proof
People taking marshmallow root for an irritated throat and dry cough rated it effective and well tolerated
Fink 2018, Complement Med Res · Source
Marshmallow root extract reduced the ability of E. coli to stick to tissue, the first step bacteria take before an infection
Sendker 2017, J Nat Prod · Source
Marshmallow root extract calmed inflammation signals (TNF-α and IL-6) in immune cells and protected them from oxidative stress
Bonaterra 2020, Front Pharmacol · Source
Marshmallow root extracts and their soothing polysaccharides stimulated the activity of human epithelial cells, the cells that line skin and mucous membranes
Deters 2010, J Ethnopharmacol · Source
European herbal experts list marshmallow root for soothing irritated mucous membranes
ESCOP, Althaeae radix, ESCOP Monographs · Source
How has it been used traditionally?
The European Medicines Agency's herbal monograph (2016, under review in 2025) recognizes marshmallow root for traditional use. It has a long history in European and American herbal practice as a demulcent, an herb that soothes irritated tissue.
Is marshmallow root safe to take?
Marshmallow root is generally well tolerated. Because its mucilage can slow how the body absorbs other things, many herbalists suggest taking it apart from medications. If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, see a healthcare provider.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Last reviewed: November 2026.
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Reviewed by the Momotaro Apotheca medical team, including OB-GYNs and naturopathic doctors. Educational information, not medical advice. All ingredient research