Botanical: Althaea officinalis
Family: Malyaceae (mallow)
Other common names: Marshmallow, Mortification Root, Sweet Weed, Wymote, Mallards,

Hock Herb, Schloss Tea

Troubled by asthma, bronchitis or other respiratory problems?  Althea Root's high mucilage content makes it an appropriate supplement for the respiratory system and, thus, it aids the body in expelling excess fluid and mucus and will soothe the mucous membranes and a dry, hacking cough.  It is an old time remedy for treating bladder infection, digestive upsets, fluid retention, intestinal disorders, kidney problems, sinusitis and sore throat.  Althea is a natural source of beta-carotene, amino acids, minerals and vitamins and is often used as a filler in the compounding of pills.

Althea Root soothes!

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History:
Althea Root or Marsh Mallow is a rich source of healing mucilage and its genus name, Althaea, is derived from the Greek althe (to cure). The use of Althea Root originated in traditional Greek medicine and later spread to Arabian and Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Long used as a healing herb, Althea Root was eaten by the Egyptians and Syrians and mentioned by Pythagoras, Plato and Virgil. The plant was enjoyed by the Romans in barley soup and in a stuffing for suckling pig, while classical herbalists praised its gentle laxative properties. It was used in Persia to reduce inflammation in teething babies, and the Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne (A.D. 800-814), insisted that Althea be planted throughout his kingdom, and in the nineteenth century, some doctors made a meringue from the plant's root juices, egg whites and sugar that hardened into a medicinal candy, which was used to soothe children's sore throats. Althea Root is a hardy perennial that grows best in wet, marshy areas, thriving in salt marshes, damp meadows, by the sea or sides of ditches, and on the banks of tidal rivers. The plant bears hibiscus-like blossoms of light red to white or purple in color and may grow to a height of four to six feet.  All parts of the plant are used in various ways, i.e., medicinal, decorative, culinary and cosmetic purposes, but the root is mainly used for medicinal purposes. Althea Root is rich in mucilage, polysaccharides, flavonoids (quercetin), kaempferol, amino acids, betaine, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, salicylic acid, scopoletin, sorbitol, vanillic acid, asparagine, tannins, lecithin, paraffin, pectin, acids, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, B-vitamins and vitamin C.

Beneficial Uses:
Althea (Marshmallow) Root's particular excellence involves soothing irritated tissue and relieves various forms of inflammation, especially of the mucous membranes, since it is high in mucilage which is very soothing to the membranes. It aids the body in expelling excess fluid and mucus. The herb is used in many lung preparations and cough syrups to alleviate a dry, hacking cough and laryngitis.

It is also known to be a good expectorant, helping to loosen and expel phlegm from the lungs.

Althea Root is an old-time remedy for gastrointestinal disorders, strengthening the digestive system, because it contains polysaccharides that form a protective layer on the stomach lining and will lower stomach acids. Its great demulcent and emollient properties of make it useful for inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, and the herb is frequently used to treat indigestion, ulcers and colitis.

Althea Root improves the functioning of the immune system, since it is known to stimulate phagocytosis, the immune process in which cells called macrophages engulf and digest infectious micro-organisms.

The active constituents in Althea are large carbohydrate (sugar) molecules, which make up the mucilage, and this smooth, slippery substance can soothe and protect irritated mucous membranes, making it helpful in providing some minor relief for the urinary tract and kidneys.

Althea Root may be used externally in an ointment as an emollient to soften and soothe skin and dry hands. The high mucilage content will also promote rapid healing of diaper rash, skin ulcers, sunburns, psoriasis and problem skin.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications: Currently, there are no known warnings or contraindications with the use of Althea Root.

Capsule Size:
We use only 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules for all of our encapsulated products. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs of powdered herb material.

• Althea Root (sold as Marshmallow Root) - Botanical Extract 4:1 -- Approximately 600 mgs each