06/10/2026
I love ruffled hollyhocks!
Did you know hollyhocks are in the Marshmallow family and can be used the same way! 💚
The marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) has been used for centuries in herbal medicine. The part most commonly used is the root, though the leaves and flowers are also used. The original marshmallow candy was actually made from the root's mucilage before modern recipes switched to gelatin and sugar.
What Makes It Special?
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a slippery, gel-like substance that coats and soothes tissues.
Potential Health Benefits
Soothing Sore Throats and Coughs
Marshmallow root tea or syrup can coat irritated throat tissues, which may help reduce discomfort and dry coughs.
Digestive Support
The mucilage may help soothe:
Heartburn
Mild stomach irritation
Occasional indigestion
Irritated digestive tract
Many people drink it as a cold infusion for digestive comfort.
Urinary Tract Comfort
Traditionally, marshmallow has been used to soothe irritation in the urinary tract, though it isn't a treatment for infections.
Skin Support
Applied externally as a poultice or wash, it has been used for:
Minor skin irritation
Dry skin
Insect bites
How People Commonly Use It
Cold Infusion (Best for preserving mucilage)
Place 1–2 tablespoons dried marshmallow root in a quart jar.
Fill with cool water.
Let sit 4–8 hours or overnight.
Strain and drink.
The water becomes slightly thick and silky.
Tea
You can make a warm tea, though some mucilage is lost with heat.
Safety Notes
Marshmallow root is generally considered safe for most people, but because the mucilage can coat the digestive tract, it may reduce absorption of medications. If you take medications, it's often recommended to separate them from marshmallow preparations by a couple of hours.
Growing It
If you're growing it in your garden:
The roots are usually harvested from plants that are at least 2 years old.
The flowers are attractive to pollinators.
It likes moist, fertile soil and full sun.
When to Harvest the Root
The best roots come from plants that are 2 years old or older.
Harvest:
In late fall after the plant dies back, or
In early spring before new growth begins
At these times, the plant has stored the most energy and mucilage in its roots.
How to Harvest Without Killing the Plant
Instead of digging up the entire plant:
Carefully dig around one side of the crown.
Locate some of the larger side roots.
Cut off a few side roots with clean pruners.
Refill the hole with soil and water well.
The plant can often continue growing if you leave the main crown and plenty of roots intact.
Processing the Root
Wash the roots thoroughly.
Scrub off dirt with a vegetable brush.
Slice into thin rounds while fresh (much easier than after drying).
Dry in a dehydrator or warm, airy location until completely hard.
Store in airtight jars away from light.
Dried marshmallow root can remain useful for a year or more if stored properly.
Homemade Marshmallow Root Syrup
For sore throats and dry winter coughs:
Make a strong cold infusion.
Strain.
Warm gently (don't boil).
Add honey to taste, about equal parts honey and infusion.
Store in the refrigerator.
Use within a few weeks.
Harvesting Leaves and Flowers
You don't have to wait years to use the plant.
Pick leaves and flowers during the growing season.
Dry them for tea.
They contain mucilage too, though less than the root.
The flowers are beautiful and attract bees and other pollinators, so I usually leave plenty on the plant.
