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The herb, not the white puffy confection roasted over a campfire has been used for centuries as both a food and a medicine. It is alterative, antacid, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, antitussive, aphrodisiac, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, galactagogue, immune tonic, laxative, nutritive, rejuvenative and soothing. Althaea comes from the Latin altho meaning to heal. Marshmallows demulcent qualities bring relief to bronchial asthma, sore throat, bronchial catarrh, pleurisy and when there is dry cough. Also useful in intestinal disorders like colitis, diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is also used for irritation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and mild inflammation of the gastric mucosa. It also stimulates the immune system and production of white blood cells. It is a natural source of beta-carotene, amino acids, minerals and vitamins. Soothes infection and irritation from kidney and bladder stones.

This herb has a high mucilage content (is highest in the root, about 11%), which calm inflammation, nourishes bone marrow, soothes and moistens the skin, and promotes tissue healing.