Althaea officinalis
Malvaceae

• Mucilage, l8-35%; consisting of a number of polysaccharides; one is composed of L-rhamnose, D-galactose, D-galacturonic acid and D-glucuronic acid in the ratio 3:2:3:3, another a highly branched L-arabifurranan, another a trisaccharide structural unit and one with a high proportion of uronic acid units.
  
  
• Miscellaneous; about 35% pectin, l-2% asparagine, tannins.
  

In the leaves:

• Mucilage; including a low molecular weight D-glucan
  
  
• Flavanoids such a kaempferol, quercitin and diosmetin glucosides
  
  
• Scopoletin, a coumarin
  
  
• Polyphenolic acids, including syringic, caffeic, salicyclic, vanillic, p-coumaric etc.

Its abundance of mucilage makes Marshmallow an excellent demulcent that is indicated wherever such an action is called for. The roots have been used for the digestive system whilst the leaves are used for the urinary system and lungs. All inflammatory conditions of the G-I tract will benefit from its use, e.g. inflammations of the mouth, gastritis, peptic ulceration, colitis etc.. The leaves help in cystitis, urethritis and urinary gravel as well as bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, irritating coughs.

Externally the herb is often used in drawing ointments for abscesses and boils or as an emollient for varicose veins and ulcers.

Combinations : As one of the most effective and safest demulcents, it may be used in any situation where this action is appropriate.

1-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

A cold infusion of the roots should be made with 2-4 gms. to a cup of cold water and left to infuse over night.