True marshmallow

Marshmallow, also known as medicinal marshmallow, is a plant whose leaves and roots are used to make medicine. The leaves and root of marshmallow are used to treat inflammatory pain and swelling of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. They are also used for dry coughs. Inflammation of the stomach lining, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, constipation, inflammation of the urinary tract and stones in the urinary tract. Sometimes the leaves and root of true marshmallow are applied directly to the skin to treat abscesses and skin ulcers. For inflammation of the skin, burns or other wounds, the root and leaves of true marshmallow are used as a poultice. The leaves of true marshmallow are used in the form of a poultice for insect bites. The root of true marshmallow is applied to the skin as an ingredient in ointments for chapped skin and chilblains on the hands and feet. The leaves and root of true marshmallow are used as flavorings in foods.

How does true marshmallow work?

Marshmallow forms a protective layer on the skin and on the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. It also contains chemicals that may soothe coughs and help heal wounds.

How effective is real marshmallow?

There is not enough scientific data to say how effective marshmallow is for ulcers, skin inflammation, burns, wounds, insect bites, chapped skin, diarrhea, constipation, stomach and intestinal ulcers, mouth and throat irritation, and dry coughs. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of true marshmallow in these applications.

Safety and side effects

Marshmallow is safe and harmless for most people when taken orally. In some people, marshmallow may cause low blood sugar levels. Marshmallow may be safe and harmless when applied to the skin.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the use of marshmallow during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid real marshmallow.

Diabetes: There are concerns that marshmallow may interfere with blood sugar control. Diabetics should therefore carefully monitor their blood sugar levels to avoid dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Surgeries: Marshmallow could affect blood sugar levels and there are therefore concerns that marshmallow could affect blood sugar control during and after surgery. For this reason, you should stop taking marshmallow two weeks before an operation.

Interactions

Care should be taken when combining marshmallow with the following medications:

Lithium

Marshmallow could have a dehydrating (diuretic) effect. Taking marshmallow may interfere with the body's excretion of lithium, which could result in increased lithium levels and serious side effects. For this reason, it is important to consult your doctor before using marshmallow if you are taking lithium. The lithium dosage may need to be adjusted.

Diabetes medication

Marshmallow may lower blood sugar. Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar levels. Taking marshmallow in combination with diabetes medication could result in an excessive drop in blood sugar levels. For this reason, blood sugar levels should be carefully monitored. It is possible that the dosage of diabetes medication may need to be adjusted.

Medication taken orally

Marshmallow contains a type of fiber called mucilage. Mucilage can reduce the amount of active drug ingredients absorbed by the body. Taking oral medications and marshmallow at the same time can reduce the effectiveness of these medications. To prevent this interaction, real marshmallow should be taken at least one hour after taking oral medication.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of marshmallow depends on various factors such as age, health status and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to determine appropriate dosage ranges for marshmallow. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.