Marshmallow

Botanical Profile

Marshmallow is one of the classic European mucilage-rich plants. From a pharmacognostic perspective, both the root, Althaeae radix, and the leaves, Althaeae folium, are significant.

Althaea officinalis L. is a perennial herb with softly felted leaves, pale pink to whitish flowers and a strong taproot. The species prefers moist, nutrient-rich habitats such as river lowlands, wet meadows and coastal areas. The root stores considerable quantities of mucilage-rich reserve substances. Marshmallow has been cultivated for centuries in monastic, apothecary and cottage gardens.

Phytochemistry

Marshmallow is particularly characterised by mucilage, especially complex polysaccharides such as arabinogalactans, rhamnogalacturonans and galactans. The root contains particularly high proportions of mucilage. Flavonoids, phenolic acids, pectins, amino acids and small amounts of tannins are also described. Quality control focuses on identity, purity and mucilage content.

Traditional Uses

Marshmallow has a history of use dating back to antiquity. Greek and Roman authors mention the plant, and in the Middle Ages it was grown in many monastic gardens. EMA/HMPC, WHO, ESCOP and the European Pharmacopoeia cover the root and leaves as traditional herbal substances. In cultural history, the mucilage-rich roots are also associated with early confectionery.

Current Research

Research focuses on the structure and properties of the mucilage, including swelling capacity, viscosity, molecular weights and polysaccharide fractions. Further studies investigate standardisation, differences in origin, processing, flavonoids and phenolic acids.

Sources

• {'type': 'EMA/HMPC', 'title': 'European Union herbal monograph on Althaea officinalis L., radix'}
• {'type': 'EMA/HMPC', 'title': 'European Union herbal monograph on Althaea officinalis L., folium'}
• {'type': 'WHO', 'title': 'WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Althaeae radix'}
• {'type': 'ESCOP', 'title': 'ESCOP Monographs – Althaeae radix / Althaeae folium'}
• {'type': 'European Pharmacopoeia', 'title': 'Althaeae radix / Althaeae folium'}