FolkKB

Marsh-mallows

Althaea

Althaea, commonly known as marshmallow, is a plant traditionally associated with European herbal medicine. While its specific uses in traditional practices are not well-documented, it has been studied for its potential health benefits. Scientific evidence suggests that Althaea officinalis contains various phytochemicals and exhibits varying levels of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Extracts from different parts of the plant have shown improved properties when prepared using deep eutectic solvents compared to aqueous or methanolic extracts. However, it has not been found to possess significant anthelmintic activity in studies involving traditional medicinal plants. Additionally, nanocomposites derived from Althaea extracts demonstrated reduced biofilm formation by certain bacteria. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Althaea, though further research is warranted to fully understand its potential applications and effects.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Althaea officinalis was one of several plants evaluated for anthelmintic activity, but its effect on parasite larvae was not specifically determined in this study. D PMID
  • The study identified diverse phytochemicals and varying antioxidant and antimicrobial activities in Althaea officinalis extracts from different plant parts. D PMID
  • The deep eutectic solvent-based extract of Althaea officinalis showed improved antimicrobial and antioxidant activity compared to aqueous and methanolic extracts. D PMID
  • The study found that ZnO@ES2 and ZnO@ES4 nanocomposites significantly reduced biofilm formation by E. coli and P. aeruginosa. D PMID
  • This review found that certain plant-based treatments, particularly those involving Althaea, showed potential as adjunct or alternative therapies for cutaneous leishmaniasis, but evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses. A PMID
  • The herbal mouthwash derived from Pedicough syrup showed similar improvements in plaque, gingival, and bleeding indices compared to chlorhexidine in patients with gingivitis. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Marsh-mallows?

Marsh-mallows (Althaea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Marsh-mallows?

6 sourced findings are recorded for Marsh-mallows; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Althaea officinalis was one of several plants evaluated for anthelmintic activity, but its effect on parasite larvae was not specifically determined in this study.

How strong is the evidence for Marsh-mallows?

The strongest finding for Marsh-mallows carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Marsh-mallows safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Marsh-mallows in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Marsh-mallows interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Marsh-mallows in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Marsh-mallows?

Marsh-mallows is also known as: Алтей, Guimauve.

Is Marsh-mallows a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Biofilm-inhibiting ZnO@Eggshell nanocomposites: green synthesis, characterization, and biomedical potential. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Anthelmintic Activity of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in Europe. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Effects of Aqueous, Methanolic, and a Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Extracts of Althaea officinalis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Phytochemical Content, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Althaea officinalis L. Extracts Prepared by "Green" Classical and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Plant-based therapeutics for leishmaniasis: A systematic review emphasizing human studies and clinical trial evidence. literature abstract metadata
  6. T2 Effect of an Herbal Mouthwash Derived from Pedicough Syrup on Plaque, Gingival and Bleeding Indices in Patients with Gingivitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. literature abstract metadata

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