Herb of the day
Marshmallow root
Althaea officinalis
Root day: by tradition the part of the plant to gather today
A velvety-leaved member of the mallow family whose root is rich in mucilage.
Description
A perennial, 1–1.5 m tall, liking damp places, with pale pink flowers. The root is dug up in autumn, peeled and dried. Its main constituent is mucilage, which forms a protective film on mucous membranes.
Traditional use
Traditionally used for a dry, tickly cough, a scratchy throat and to protect the lining of the stomach.
Preparation
Cold infusion: soak a teaspoon of chopped root in 200 ml of cold water for 1–2 hours, stirring now and then, strain and drink warmed to lukewarm. Boiling water reduces the mucilage.
Caution
May slow the absorption of other medicines: take them at least an hour before or after. With diabetes, keep an eye on your blood sugar. See a doctor for a lingering cough.