Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis)
EMA-monograph mucilage herb for dry cough and sore throat, gentle coating effect on irritated mucosa.
Why
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) holds EMA HMPC Traditional Use monographs for symptomatic treatment of oral or pharyngeal irritation and associated dry cough, and for mild gastrointestinal complaints. The active material is a soluble mucilage that forms a physical protective coating on inflamed mucosa. Useful as a soothing complement to mucolytic and antimicrobial respiratory herbs.
How it works
High-molecular-weight polysaccharide mucilage forms a hydrogel film on oral, pharyngeal, oesophageal and gastric mucosa, physical demulcent effect. Modulates local TRPV1 signalling, reducing cough reflex sensitisation.
Expected onset · Soothing effect within hours; symptomatic improvement over days
How to take
Dosage
Cold-water macerate: 0.5–3 g dried root in 150 ml cold water, soaked 30 min; up to 6 g/day. Syrup or lozenge: per product label.
Timing
3–4 times daily as needed
On the label
'Althaea officinalis radix' (root) or 'folium' (leaf. Separate monograph). Cold-water macerate or stated polysaccharide content preserves activity.
Ideal for
Adults and children with dry irritated cough, sore throat, mild reflux symptoms or mild gastric mucosal irritation.
Safety
Evidence
EMA classifies marshmallow root as Traditional Use for oral/pharyngeal irritation and dry cough, and for mild GI complaints. Bonaterra 2020 Phytomedicine confirmed in-vitro and animal-model reduction of cough sensitivity from purified mucilage. Modern RCT base is small; the regulatory anchor is the traditional-use registration.
Where to get it
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