Marshmallow Root Tea

Overview and identity

Marshmallow root is the root of Althaea officinalis L. In EU monographs it is prepared as a macerate (soaked in water), not as a hot infusion. [1] The EU defines maceration among the ways of preparing herbal teas, and says infusion is usually appropriate for leaves, flowers and delicate parts, while decoction or maceration suits roots, rhizomes and bark. [2] See How preparation works.

What EU regulators concluded

On the basis of long-standing use, marshmallow root preparations can be used to treat irritation of the mouth or throat and associated dry cough, and to relieve mild stomach and gut discomfort. [1] In the EU, the herbal medicines committee (HMPC) accepts this kind of use as "traditional use": the effectiveness is considered plausible and the product has been used safely for at least 30 years (at least 15 within the EU), although clinical trial evidence is insufficient. That is a regulatory category, not proof from trials. [1] The committee considered two studies of marshmallow root syrup in around 900 children, in which an effect on coughing was seen but firm conclusions could not be drawn because the syrup was not compared with another treatment, and a study of 63 adults in which marshmallow root drops reduced cough while patients on placebo showed no change. [1] PubMed lists only 4 randomized trials mentioning marshmallow root (see Research).

What the EU monograph describes for the tea (not a recommendation)

For adolescents, adults and the elderly it describes 0.5 to 3 g of comminuted root in 150 ml of water as a macerate several times daily for throat irritation (maximum 15 g a day), and 2 to 5 g in 150 ml of water as a macerate 3 times daily for stomach and gut discomfort (maximum 15 g a day). Use for gut discomfort is for those over 12, and the monograph has separate limits for younger children. Consult a doctor if symptoms last longer than 1 week (throat) or 2 weeks (gut). [1] This is a description of authorised products, not a personal recommendation. For any child, ask a pediatrician.

Safety

• Absorption of other medicines may be delayed. As a precaution the monograph says marshmallow root should not be taken 1/2 to 1 hour before or after other medicines. [1] This is a documented caution, so tell a pharmacist about all your medicines.
• Consult a doctor if breathlessness, fever or purulent (pus-containing) sputum occurs. [1]
• Preparations containing ethanol must carry ethanol labeling. [1]