Marshmallow Root is traditionally known as a healing herb in a lot of ways. It's can be used by mixing it into drinks like tea, or juice and it also comes in capsule form. This is not healthcare advice an you should always consult a doctor before practicing any remedies for health issues.

1. It may help treat coughs and colds

The high mucilaginous content of marshmallow root may make it a useful remedy for treating coughs and colds.


A small study from 2005 found that an herbal cough syrup containing marshmallow root was effective in relieving coughs due to colds, bronchitis, or respiratory tract diseases with formation of mucus. The active ingredient of the syrup was dry ivy leaf extract. It also contained thyme and aniseed.


Within 12 days, all 62 participants experienced an 86 to 90 percent improvement in symptoms. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.


Marshmallow root appears to act as an enzyme to loosen mucous and inhibit bacteria. Lozenges containing marshmallow root extract help dry coughs and an irritated throat.


How to use: Take 10 milliliters (mL) of marshmallow root cough syrup each day. You can also drink a few cups of bagged marshmallow tea throughout the day.

2. It may help relieve skin irritation

The anti-inflammatory effect of marshmallow root may also help relieve skin irritation caused by furunculosis, eczema, and dermatitis.


A review from 2013 found that using an ointment containing 20 percent marshmallow root extract reduced skin irritation. Researchers suggested that the herb stimulates certain cells that have anti-inflammatory activity.


When used alone, the extract was slightly less effective than an ointment containing an anti-inflammatory synthetic drug. However, an ointment containing both ingredients had higher anti-inflammatory activity than the ointments containing only one or the other.
More research is needed to confirm and elaborate upon these findings.


How to use: Apply an ointment containing 20 percent marshmallow root extract to the affected area 3 times per day.


How to do a skin patch test: It’s important to do a patch test before using any topical medication. To do this, rub a dime-sized amount on to the inside of your forearm. If you don’t experience any irritation or inflammation within 24 hours, it should be safe to use elsewhere.

3. It may help with wound healing

Marshmallow root has antibacterial activity that may make it effective in wound healing.
The results of one 2015 animal studyTrusted Source suggest that marshmallow root extract has the potential to treat gram-positive bacteriaTrusted Source. These bacteria are responsible for over 50 percent of the infections that occur and include the antibiotic-resistant “super bugs.” When applied topically to rat wounds, the extract significantly increased wound healing in comparison to antibiotic controls.


It’s thought to speed up the healing time and reduce inflammation, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.


How to use: Apply a cream or ointment containing marshmallow root extract to the affected area three times per day.


How to do a skin patch test: It’s important to do a patch test before using any topical medication. To do this, rub a dime-sized amount on to the inside of your forearm. If you don’t experience any irritation or inflammation within 24 hours, it should be safe to use elsewhere.

4. It may promote overall skin health

Marshmallow root may be used to enhance the appearance of skin that has been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In other words, anyone who’s ever been out in the sun may benefit from applying topical marshmallow root.


Although laboratory research from 2016 supports the use of marshmallow root extract in UV skin care formulations, researchers need to learn more about the extract’s chemical makeup and practical applications.


How to use: Apply a cream, ointment, or oil containing marshmallow root extract in the morning and evening. You can apply it more often after sun exposure.


How to do a skin patch test: It’s important to do a patch test before using any topical medication. To do this, rub a dime-sized amount on to the inside of your forearm. If you don’t experience any irritation or inflammation within 24 hours, it should be safe to use elsewhere.

5. It may act as a pain reliever

A study from 2014 cites research that marshmallow root can act as an analgesic to relieve pain. This may make marshmallow root an excellent choice for soothing conditions that cause pain or irritation such as sore throat or an abrasion.


How to use: Take 2–5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day. You can also take the extract at the first sign of any discomfort.

6. It may work as a diuretic

Marshmallow root also has the potential to act as a diuretic. Diuretics help the body to flush out excess fluid. This helps to cleanse the kidneys and the bladder.
Other research suggests that the extract can support overall urinary health. One 2016 study suggests that the soothing effect of marshmallow can relieve internal irritation and inflammation in the urinary tract. Research from 2015Trusted Source also suggests that its antibacterial effect may be useful in treating urinary tract infections.


How to use: Make fresh marshmallow root tea by adding a cup of boiling water to 2 teaspoons of dried root. You can also buy bagged marshmallow tea. Drink a few cups of tea throughout the day.

7. It may aid in digestion

Marshmallow root also has the potential to treat a wide range of digestive conditions, including constipation, heartburn, and intestinal colic.
Research from 2011 found that marshmallow flower extract demonstrated potential benefits in treating gastric ulcers in rats. Anti-ulcer activity was noted after taking the extract for one month. More research is needed to expand upon these findings.


How to use: Take 2–5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day. You can also take the extract at the first sign of any discomfort.

8. It may help repair gut lining

Marshmallow root may help soothe irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract.
An in vitro study from 2010 found that aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from marshmallow root can be used to treat irritated mucous membranes. Research suggests that the mucilage content creates a protective layer of tissue on the lining of the digestive tract. Marshmallow root may also stimulate the cells that support tissue regeneration.


Further research is needed to expand upon these findings.


How to use: Take 2–5 ml of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day. You can also take the extract at the first sign of any discomfort.

9. It may act as an antioxidant

Marshmallow root has antioxidant properties that may help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.


Research from 2011 found marshmallow root extract to be comparable to standard antioxidants. Although it demonstrated strong total antioxidant activity, further research is needed to elaborate on these findings.


How to use: Take 2–5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day.

10. It may support heart health

Scientists are investigating the potential of marshmallow flower extract in treating various heart conditions.


A 2011 animal study examined the effects of liquid marshmallow flower extract in treating lipemia, platelet aggregation, and inflammation. These conditions are sometimes linked to cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that taking the flower extract for one month had a positive effect on HDL cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. More research is needed to expand on these findings.


How to use: Take 2–5 mL of liquid marshmallow extract 3 times per day.

Possible side effects and risks

Marshmallow root is generally well tolerated. In some cases, it can cause upset stomach and dizziness. Starting with a low dose and gradually working your way up to a full dose can help reduce your risk of side effects.


Taking marshmallow root with an 8-ounce glass of water can also help reduce your risk of side effects.


You should only take marshmallow root for four weeks at a time. Be sure to take a one-week break before resuming use.


When applied topically, marshmallow root has the potential to cause skin irritation. You should always do a patch test before moving forward with a full application.


Talk to your doctor if you’re taking other medications before starting marshmallow root, as it’s been found to interact with lithium and diabetes drugs. It can also coat the stomach and interfere with absorption of other medications.


Avoid use if you:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have diabetes
• have a scheduled surgery within the next two weeks
  
  

The bottom line

Although marshmallow root is generally considered safe to use, you should still talk with your doctor before taking. The herb isn’t meant to replace any doctor-approved treatment plan.
With your doctor’s approval, add an oral or topical dose into your routine. You can reduce your risk for side effects by starting with a small amount and increasing the dosage over time.
If you begin experiencing any unusual side effects, discontinue use and see your doctor.

Types of Sage

What are the different types of sage? Sage is also known as common sage, garden sage, true sage, Spanish sage, and Chinese sage. The botanical term for common sage is Salvia officinalis.

Benefits of Using Sage

Internally Sage is used today for numerous purposes depending on the method of use. Sage used internally may be taken for any of the following purposes. Burning sage, also known as smudging, involves literally burning the sage leaves and letting the smoke purify the air in your home. Sage can also be taken internally as a liquid, spray, lozenge, capsule, or tablet.

Note that while there is some research evidence to suggest the benefits of sage for each of these uses, it remains preliminary and more research is needed to define the benefits of sage for each of these purposes.

Overall, it is thought that the phenolic and flavonoid compounds present in sage are helpful in terms of having an antioxidant effect and reducing free radicals. This is further thought to relate to the presence of rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid in sage.

Below are some of the purported benefits of using sage internally.

• pain relief
  
  
• reducing oxidative stress on the body
  
  
• protecting against free radical damage
  
  
• reducing inflammation
  
  
• protecting against bacterial and viral infections
  
  
• treating minor illnesses
  
  
• as a dietary supplement for digestion
  
  
• sore throat relief
  
  
• protecting against memory loss
  
  
• reducing depression or improving mood
  
  
• preventing obesity
  
  
• for chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer
  
  

Benefits of Burning SageThe purpose of burning sage differs slightly from the reasons for taking it internally. The burning of sage is a historical spiritual ritual also known as smudging.

Poor air quality may be linked to various health conditions. In this way, burning sage is seen as a cost-effective way to purify the air (to an extent). This is because sage is thought to have antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. That being said, it's important to keep in mind that burning sage will create smoke, which can cause health problems for individuals who are prone to asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Just as with taking sage internally, Some practitioners of alternative medicine believe that burning sage can help to release so-called "negative energy". In addition to burning sage, some people use a cleansing spray in their homes.

Some of the purported benefits of burning sage include the following.

• removing bacteria from the air
  
  
• repelling insects
  
  
• improving intuition
  
  
• purifying specific objects
  
  
• improving mood and reducing stress and anxiety
  
  

Research on the Use of Sage for Mental HealthOverall, not enough research has been conducted on the use of sage for its proposed benefits as they relate to mental health. Because of this, there is not clear support for its use for any mental health condition. However, based on preliminary research, there may be support for the use of sage for the following mental health-related purposes.

One area in which there is specific preliminary support for the use of sage is that of mood and memory.

A 2005 study showed that common sage improved memory and cognition (thinking ability). In addition, increased dosages were related to improvements in mood, and feeling alert, calm, and content.

It has been suggested that sage has a protective effect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, because of the active compounds it contains.

Safety of Using Sage

Sage has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use as a spice or seasoning. In general, the use of sage for health purposes is recognized as safe.

However, some species of sage contains thujone, which can have an effect on the nervous system. Twelve or more drops of sage oil is considered to be a toxic dose. Some potential side effects of extended use of sage include restlessness, rapid heart rate, vertigo, vomiting, kidney damage, seizures, and tremors.

If you plan on using sage internally in addition to burning sage, it is important to let your doctor know (just as you should with any complementary medicines).

As far as burning sage is concerned, it is generally safe to do so around children and pets, just as long as you are aware of any possible respiratory conditions the might have. Plus, they may not like the smell.

How to Start Burning Sage

Would you like to start burning sage in your home? If you're not yet dissuaded by the relative lack of evidence supporting such a practice, rest assured that there is little likelihood of any drawbacks associated with burning sage in your home.

In other words, if you feel this practice might benefit your physical or mental health, then there's little reason to avoid taking part. Burning sage is relatively cost-effective as far as mental health practices go, and the benefit of trying something new cannot be denied.

So, to get started with burning sage, or "smudging" as you might also hear it called, you will first need to find a source of your sage.

Here you have a few different options:

1. You could purchase sage for burning online or in a health store.

2. You could purchase sage from a traditional healer or shaman.

3. You could grow your own sage with the purpose of drying it for burning. Trim the sage rather than pulling it out by the root. Do not cut stems from the plant until you are sure that it is able to sustain itself and will not die after you cut it. After cutting the sage, gather it in a bundle, tie it, and hang it in a dry place. It is dry enough when it crackles when squeezed.

As a beginner, your best bet is to purchase a pre-wrapped bundle or stick of white sage as this will be easier to handle. Traditional users of sage believe that intentions matter when burning sage. For this reason, you should always purchase sage from someplace or from someone you trust.

Regardless of which route you choose for obtaining your sage, the basic steps for burning sage in your home will be the same.

Steps for Burning Sage

1. You will need something in which to burn the sage. This could be an incense tray or a bowl to catch the ashes as the sage burns. You could also purchase a sage burner. Fill it with earth or sand. Don't use a flammable container and keep water on hand.

2. Open a window or door before you start burning the sage. This allows the smoke to exit your house.

3. Put the sage in the burning container and light it. Let it burn for several seconds and then blow it out so that it keeps smoking. If it stops emitting smoke, try lighting it again.

4. If you are using the sage for spiritual purposes, set an intention for what you are doing. This is kind of like saying that you are starting a new beginning. For example, you might say "Let this be the day that changes start to take place."

5. Walk to each room you wish to purify and let the smoke enter it. Do not allow any space to fill with too much smoke. Avoid inhaling the smoke directly.


A Word From Mutana

Burning sage has a long history and may be helpful to you for starting a spiritual practice or starting fresh. It may be particularly helpful if you are struggling with a transition or wanting to feel good about the positive things you are doing for your home or physical health.

However, if you are living with symptoms of severe mood problems or anxiety, it is unlikely that burning sage will help. In this case, it is important to consult your doctor in addition to engaging in a complementary health practice such as burning sage.