Marshmallow Root: Not for S’mores! Posted on September 18, 2023September 18, 2023 When someone mentions Marshmallow you’re brain might instantly visualize the sweet, fluffy white puffs that smash between graham crackers and a piece of chocolate. And while those kinds of marshmallows are delicious, they aren’t exactly healthy. But did you know the sweet marshmallow we think of today actually comes from an ancient recipe that was used to help with sore throats? For generations, marshmallow root has been used for those troubled with dry and irritated throats. This is exactly how I was personally introduced to Marshmallow root. After nearly a week of dealing with a terrible sore throat, my wife made a beautiful tea (recipe below) that had me asking for more. By the end of the following day, my throat was completely better! Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is a demulcent botanical. These demulcents have a calming effect on the mucus membranes they come into contact with because of something called mucopolysaccharides. These chains of sugar molecules in humans are often found in mucus and in the fluid around our joints. Essentially coating these irritated membranes, demulcents offer soothing relief. Since ancient times, people around the world have used marshmallow root to soothe the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. Such a beautiful herb with a rich history of medicinal uses! We sell raw marshmallow root in-store and online! This herb is useful in making soothing herbal teas, especially during the cold and flu season. Even as we are dealing with smoky air from the Canadian wildfires, this tea has been effective at dealing with the dry and scratchy effects of the poor air quality. Order Organic Marshmallow Root Here Interested in more raw herbs? We offer a variety of raw herbs to supplement your making needs. Make tinctures, salves, herbal honey, and medicinal herbal tea. Shop our Raw Herbs Marshmallow Tea Recipe Makes about 12 ounces. Active Time: 5 minutes. Tea is a wonderful way to ingest marshmallow’s healthful properties, but it’s important to know that mucopolysaccharides are destroyed by heat. So if you are going to make a tea from either marshmallow root or marshmallow leaf, it’s best to use room temperature water. Ingredients 12 oz. room temperature, non-chlorinated water 1 Tbsp. organic marshmallow root Directions Put water in an appropriately sized vessel that can be covered. Stir herb into water and cover. Let steep at room temperature for 6 to 8 hours. Strain before drinking. Marshmallow is a beautiful plant that grows easily in most gardens. It’s relatively easy to care for and to harvest. It beautifully weaves its way into both the household kitchen and the herbal pantry. Here’s to marshmallow!