Against hoarseness, sore throat, cough and canker sores, a powerful, quick-acting and effective remedy is given by marshmallow root. This emerges from recent scientific research, such as the study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology by a Germanic team (Bonaterra et al, Front Pharmacol, 2020), the research published in the journal Complementary medicine Research by a group of Iranian scientists (Mahboubi et al. al, Complement Med Res, 2020) and again the research that appeared in the Journal of International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry, still thanks to a group of Iranian scientists (Haghgoo et al, JISPCD, 2017).
Marshmallow against dry cough, canker sores and sore throat
Studies show that marshmallow root, scientific name Althaea officinalis, is a valid remedy in case of dry and annoying cough, canker sores, irritation of the oral cavity and sore throat. In fact, the marshmallow, being rich in mucilage, has an immediate and soothing action by coating the inflamed mucosa with a protective film. Thanks to this film, the mucosa can regenerate and heal quickly. Not only that, this film also prevents the adhesion and proliferation of bacteria.
Marshmallow, useful in case of cough with phlegm
But marshmallow is useful to treat all types of cough, not just the dry and irritating one. In fact, the marshmallow, when combined with other remedies such as ginger or common ivy, maximizes its beneficial properties on the respiratory tract, resulting in an antitussive and expectorant remedy. Therefore, the synergy of marshmallow with ginger or ivy makes this plant a powerful help even in case of cough with phlegm.
Marshmallow against dental caries
Finally, marshmallow is also effective in treating problems affecting the oral cavity, such as gingivitis, canker sores, abscesses but also tooth decay. In fact, the antioxidant substances contained in the marshmallow root extracts have been shown to inhibit the action of the bacteria Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus, two bacteria considered to be the main responsible for tooth decay.
How to prepare marshmallow decoction
You can prepare marshmallow decoction this way. Pour a cup of water and a teaspoon of plant root, you can find it in herbal medicine, into a saucepan. Bring everything to the boil and let it simmer for two minutes. Then remove from the heat and let it rest for ten minutes, then filter, let it cool down. You can drink this decoction, very useful in case of cough and oropharyngeal irritation, but you can also use it to make rinses or gargles, to help in case of sore throat, canker sores and abscesses and to counteract tooth decay.
