This is my first blog post! I'll keep it on the shorter side and simple for easy reading. I've been pondering the question of what I should include in my blogs for some time now, and I've finally made a decision! [imagine the sound of people clapping here]
Over on my Facebook group page (head over to the social media icons and follow me there!) I've been doing an herb/plant of the week for the last several weeks to go along with my studies into herbalism, and I think it makes sense to turn those posts into a blog post! That way I can include a bit more information about the plants. So we'll start with that and see where that takes us.
For this first blog post of herb and plant knowledge, I introduce: Marsh mallow, or marshmallow
The Latin name of this plant is Althaea officinalis.
Marshmallow treats that we know today were first made from the root of this plant! Although most marshmallow today doesn’t have marsh mallow root in its ingredients.
Marsh mallow plant is a demulcent, meaning that it coats irritated mucus membranes and offers soothing relief. Ingestion of this plant has an influence on the mucosal membranes in the body. These membranes are the tissues that line all organs; they essentially protect the body from invading pathogens by coating our organ systems with mucus. If these tissues in the body become overly dry, they can be more prone to infection from outside pathogens. Because of this, marsh mallow is especially great for soothing sore throats and scratchy throat irritation from coughing.
Although!
It's important to note that Marsh Mallow is also an emollient, meaning it softens the skin. So, while this plant can help with dry hacking coughs, it can make a cold and wet cough worse.
Have a MAGICAL day,
Jenny
PLANT INGESTION WARNING!
As with all herbs and plants you plan to ingest, never ingest them before doing your own research and/or talking with your doctor - it’s possible that medications you take or health conditions you have could have a negative effect if paired with marsh mallow. Better safe than sorry!
Photo credit goes to Alberto Salguero