OVERVIEW:
Medicinal herbs have been used in the field of medicine in India for many years. There are many herbs that can prove to be effective for health and to prevent many diseases. One of them is marshmallow root. In this article, you will know about the secret benefits of marshmallow root. At the same time, we will also explain the side-effects of marshmallow root.
WHAT IS MARSHMALLOW ROOT?
Marshmallow is a medicinal plant. Its scientific name is Althaea officinalis. It mainly belongs to North Africa, Europe and Western Asia. Its root, leaves and flowers are commonly used in traditional medicines.
At the same time, many special medicinal properties are found in it, including anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-phlegm, anti-yeast and anti-viral. In addition, its use is believed to be beneficial during hyperlipidemia, gastric ulcers, inflammation and platelet problems.
BENEFITS OF MARSHMALLOW ROOT FOR HEALTH:
The medicinal properties of marshmallow can make it beneficial for health in many ways. Here, we're going to reveal the benefits of marshmallow root. At the same time, keep in mind that the marshmallow root is not a fully cure for any disease. Its consumption can prevent disease and reduce its effects to some extent. Benefits may include:
1. In Cold and Cough:
The benefits of marshmallow root can be seen in cough and cold. The anti-tussive effect is found in the polysaccharides present in it, i.e., phlegm-relieving properties. At the same time, one study found a herbal syrup containing marshmallow root to be effective for cough and cold.
On this basis, it can be said that marshmallow root can be an effective remedy in the problem of cough and cold.
2. Work as Diuretic:
Regular consumption of marshmallow root helps reduce problems related to urination. It also acts as a diuretic. The consumption of this root is considered very beneficial to flush out the toxins present in the body. The use of marshmallow root is also considered beneficial in the problem of burning while urinating and urinary infection.
3. For Digestive Health:
Marshmallow benefits also include digestive health. Research found that marshmallow root is used in traditional Chinese medicine for a variety of problems. One of these problems is digestive disorders. The use of marshmallow can help prevent digestive problems.
In addition to this, an another scientific research has shown that marshmallow root has antacid properties. This property can be beneficial in the problem of heartburn and constipation along with controlling acid level of the stomach.
In addition, marshmallow root also has laxative properties, which may work improve the bowel movement.
4 Help Prevent Lung Cancer:
The benefits of marshmallow can be seen in the prevention of serious diseases such as cancer. A research related to this has found that the polysaccharides of marshmallow have anti-proliferative properties. These properties can help prevent the growth of liver and breast cancer cells along with the lungs.
Apart from this, research has also been said that anti-cancer properties are found in marshmallows. These properties may be beneficial in protecting against the risk of cancer.
Here; we want to make it clear that the root of marshmallow is not a treatment for cancer, it can only reduce the risk of cancer to some extent.
5. For Bacterial Infections:
The benefits of marshmallow can also be seen in fighting and preventing bacterial infections. A research has stated that marshmallow root shows anti-bacterial effect against bacteria such as S. mutans and L. acidophilus. However, more research is still needed in this regard.
6. For Leaky Gut:
Leaky gut syndrome is a digestive problem. These include cramps, abdominal pain, bloating and gas (acidity) related problems. The benefits of marshmallow can be helpful in reducing these problems to a great extent. A research clearly mentioned that the amount of mucilage is found in the marshmallow root, which can be helpful in preventing problems of the digestive system.
It can be considered beneficial in reducing or preventing problems like ulcers, inflammation and diarrhea in the intestine to some extent. Marshmallow root may also be useful for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In such a situation, it can be said that using marshmallow root can be beneficial to get rid of leaky gut problems.
7. Increase Breast Milk:
Consuming marshmallow root is considered very beneficial for lactating women. Many such properties are found in marshmallow root that work to increase the production of breast milk. Its consumption is very beneficial for those women who are breastfeeding. It is also generally considered safe for lactating women. You can consume marshmallow root tea to increase breast milk production.
8. Soothe Skin Irritation:
The use of marshmallow root is very beneficial in many problems related to the skin. You can use it to get rid of skin related problems like blemishes, itching and skin rashes etc. The anti-inflammatory properties present in marshmallow root work protect against the damage caused by the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.
9. For Diabetes:
Due to changing lifestyle, there is a risk of having many diseases and diabetes is also one of them. In such a situation, along with diet in diabetes, the use of marshmallow root can also be beneficial. A research in this regard provides information that marshmallow root has the property of reducing hypoglycemic or blood sugar level.
In such a situation, adding marshmallow root powder or its tea can be a great choice while having diabetes. However, if someone is taking diabetes medicine, then it is better to take medical advice once before including it in the diet.
10. In Wound Healing:
Using marshmallow root can help heal wounds quickly. A research related to this stated that the use of marshmallow in traditional Chinese medicine has been reported to reduce inflammation as well as to heal wounds. However, which properties of marshmallow root are beneficial for wound healing, it is still a matter of research.
11. As a Pain Reliever:
Along with healing wounds, marshmallow root can also be helpful in relieving pain. According to a study, a flavonoid called hyplotin-8-glucoside present in marshmallow root has analgesic properties. This property may help reduce pain associated with the body.
12. For Skin:
Marshmallow root can work reduce many skin related problems. A research related to this found that the extract of marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory properties. This property found in marshmallow extracts can be beneficial in curing many skin problems such as furunculosis and eczema.
Research also mentions that ointments containing marshmallow root extracts may also reduce skin irritation caused by the sun's harmful UV rays.
13. For Hair:
The benefits of marshmallow root can also be seen here when it comes to hair health. Along with health and skin, marshmallow root can also be used for hair growth. A scientific research has found that the use of marshmallow root extract can prove to be beneficial during the problem of androgenic alopecia (a type of hair loss). Actually, it has hair-growing properties, which can be helpful in hair growth.
HOW TO USE MARSHMALLOW ROOT:
To grab the maximum benefits of marshmallow, it can be used in many ways; including:
- Can be used as marshmallow tea.
- Can be used as a supplement under a doctor's supervision.
- Marshmallow root powder can also be used as a health drink.
- Marshmallow root powder for skin can be used to relieve irritation and inflammation.
HOW TO MAKE MARSHMALLOW ROOT TEA:
Marshmallow root tea can be beneficial in many health related problems. In such a situation, here we're going to tell you the easiest method of making marshmallow root tea.
To prepare marshmallow root tea, you need marshmallow root (or you can also use marshmallow tea bag instead) and water. First, peel and clean the marshmallow root and cut it into small pieces. After this put water in a vessel and keep it for heating.
When the water comes to boil, add small pieces of marshmallow root to it. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture boil well for at least 10 minutes. Now sieve it in a cup. Your marshmallow tea is ready to serve.
MARSHMALLOW ROOT SUPPLEMENTS:
You can take one teaspoon of marshmallow root in powder form once a day. You can also have one cup of marshmallow tea throughout the day.
Its capsule can also be taken on medical consultation for health related problems. However, there is no exact scientific evidence available regarding the amount of its daily dosage, so it is better to consult a doctor in this regard.
SIDE EFFECTS OF MARSHMALLOW ROOT:
Research on marshmallow root provides more information about its benefits for health. There is limited evidence available on its side effects. Some the possible side-effects of marshmallow root include:
- Marshmallow root can cause allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin.
- Marshmallow root can lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, if someone is taking diabetes medicine, then avoid its consumption or take it only after consulting a doctor or health care provider.
- Marshmallow root may be unsafe for the baby during breast-feeding. Therefore, avoid its consumption during this period. However, during this time what kind of side-effects it can cause, at the moment, there is a lack of accurate research related to it.
TAKE AWAY
After all the information related to marshmallow root, now we can hope that you must have understood the benefits and side-effects of marshmallow root. Also, you must have got a good understanding of how marshmallow root can be used. Now if you want, you can use it on medical advice or consultation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
Q. Where can I buy marshmallow root?
A. Marshmallow root can be ordered from an Ayurvedic store or you can buy it online.
Q. Can marshmallow root lower blood sugar levels?
A. Yes. A scientific study suggests its blood sugar lowering effect. According to this research, marshmallow root can help reduce blood sugar.
Q. How does marshmallow root tea taste?
A. Marshmallow root tea has a slightly sweet and slightly earthy taste.
Q. Can slippery elm and marshmallow root be taken together?
A. Slippery elm and marshmallow root are considered beneficial for health. At the same time, before taking them together, do consult a doctor at least once.
Q. Does marshmallow root have a laxative effect?
A. Yes! Marshmallow root has a laxative effect.
Q. Is marshmallow root good for GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)?
A. Yes. Marshmallow root can be beneficial for GERD. It has antacid properties, which can help control acid to great extent.
Q. Does marshmallow root help you lose weight?
A. Yes. Marshmallow root can be helpful in reducing weight.
REFERENCES:
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