Marshmallow

Althaea officinalis

A member the Malvaceae, or mallow, family who’s sisters include Hollyhocks, Okra, and Hibiscus— all of which contain healing properties. Marshmallow is cultivated widely for its rather impressive tap root and its leaves. Elegant flowering stalks, some reaching over six feet tall with delightful creamy lavender flowers that look just like miniature hollyhocks. A tough perennial hearty to zone 3, perfect for low, wet spots in the garden— but a thriving Marshmallow patch will grow in any soil condition! As the name implies, Marshmallow is a flower of the marsh and has the ability to grow in moist conditions that other plants may not favor.

A mucilage with anti-inflammatory properties that soothes and heals irritated throats and mucosal membrane, damaged gut lining, gastric upset, and ulcerations.

Marshmallow root contains high amounts of polysaccharides and starches. A cool water infusion brings out the mucilaginous polysaccharides while simmering in hot water will, in addition, bring out the starches. A cool water infusion is a purer extraction of the mucilage.

Soak ground marshmallow root in cool or room-temperature water for at least four hours— preferably overnight. Stir and enjoy the soothing, gelatinous and hydrating tonic.

Medicinal uses of Althaea officinalis listed are for informational purposes and not mean as replacement for medical assessment and care by a qualified practitioner such as an herbalist or naturopathic physician.

Sowing/ Growing Instructions:

Direct seed early spring as soon as the soil is workable. You can also start in trays planting out in spring.

Space plants and rows 2 feet apart.

Very low-maintenance and rugged perennial. Hardy to zone 3-9.

Harvest Instructions:

Allow plants to become established before harvest. You can gently harvest leaves in their first year. Begin harvesting their glorious multi-branched taproots in the second to third year. Wash roots and chop with a strong sharp knife into small pieces for drying.