Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) root cut and sifted - Bulk.
$7.20
Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) root cut and sifted -Bulk.
All of our bulk herbs are organic when available, otherwise herbs are wildcrafted and responsibly sourced.
Available in either increments of 2 oz or save 20% when you purchase a pound.
SUGGESTED USE:
Make a cold infusion using 1 heaping tablespoon, in a muslin bag, per 4 cups of water. Soak for 2 hours to overnight. Squeeze out bag into the "tea" water. Simmer 10 minutes. Whisk and drink. Dose: 1 cup, 2-4 times per day.
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
None known.
EXTRA INFORMATION:
The genus name Althaea derives from the Greek "althe", meaning "to heal." Officinalis, the species name, indicates that this was an official herb of the old European apothecaries. The common name Malva derives from the Greek "malake", meaning "soft," in reference to this plant's soothing properties.
Native to Africa, Asia, and Europe but naturalized in the eastern United States, this perennial herb can be found growing in cool, damp lowlands. It can grow to 4 to 5 feet in height and has downy, lobed leaves and large, hermaphroditic, pink to purple flowers. The fruits mature into buttonlike achenes. Marshmallow thrives in partial sun to full shade, prefers a rich loam soil, and requires only moderate amounts of water.
Marshmallow was originally an ingredient in the candy we now know as marshmallow. It is still used in the Middle East to make the sesame confection halva. The leaves and root can be eaten raw or cooked. The flowers are very beautiful and can be sprinkled raw as a garnish on other dishes. The seeds (known as cheeses for their old-fashioned cheesewheel shape) have a nutty taste and may be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. Marshmallow makes pleasant, soothing, mucilaginous tea. The concentrated tea can be used as an egg white substitute in many recipes.
Marshmallow is a hydrating herb that can be used in the bath to moisturize dry skin and in hair rinses to moisturize and add luster to dry hair. It is commonly substituted for Slippery Elm bark in herbal remedies, as Elm becomes endangered due to Dutch Elm disease. The root and stem yield a fiber that can be used in papermaking. Marshmallow root powder has been used as a binding agent in the manufacture of pills; the root also yields a glue. The oil from the seed can be used to make paints and varnishes. The peeled root can be given to teething babies for them to chew on (under supervision, of course). The peeled root can also be used as a toothbrush.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.