Is Marshmallow Tea a Thing? Everything You Should Know
Nowadays, attention to health and the use of natural and herbal methods has increased, and everyone is looking for natural treatments rather than synthetic medicine. This is where herbal teas become one of the most popular drinks among people. One of the teas that has recently gained popularity is Marshmallow Root Tea. This tea has anti-inflammatory, softening, and soothing properties, especially for people who are struggling with coughs, sore throats, or digestive problems.
Marshmallow root has been used in traditional medicine in Europe and Asia for centuries and is recognized as a natural remedy. It can now be purchased easily everywhere or online. In this article, we will talk about the origin, health benefits, and recipes of marshmallow root tea, so you can have a complete experience of drinking this trendy herbal tea.
What is Marshmallow Root?
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial plant native to the humid and marshy regions of Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It has long been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. Marshmallow root contains a compound called mucilage, which has emollient and soothing properties.
This makes marshmallow tea effective for relieving coughs, sore throats, and digestive problems. The mucilage in marshmallow root prevents inflammation and irritation by creating a protective layer on the mucous membrane of the throat and digestive tract, helping these areas heal faster.
In the past, marshmallow root was used to make sweets known as marshmallows. However, today, these sweets are made from sugar and gelatin and no longer contain marshmallow root.
What Are The Health Benefits of Marshmallow Root Tea?
Marshmallow root tea is considered one of the most beneficial herbal drinks due to its mucilage and nutritional properties. Let’s review its most important benefits.
#1 Relieves Cough and Sore Throat
The mucilage in marshmallow root acts as a protective layer and is placed on the throat wall. This property reduces irritation and itching of the throat and also relieves dry and chronic coughs. Research in 2018 also showed that consuming the extract of this plant in the form of syrup or lozenges helps improve sore throats and reduce coughs
#2 Protects the Digestive System
Marshmallow root reduces inflammation and irritation caused by stomach acid by creating a gel-like layer on the walls of the stomach and intestines. This property is very beneficial for people who suffer from problems such as stomach ulcers, reflux, or intestinal inflammation. Regular consumption of this tea accelerates the healing process of digestive ulcers.
#3 Reduces Inflammation in the Body
Marshmallow root tea contains anti-inflammatory compounds that play an effective role in managing inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Reducing inflammation is not only important for joint health but also prevents the occurrence of many chronic diseases.
#4 Strengthening the Immune System
The presence of antioxidant compounds in marshmallow root helps strengthen the immune system. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.
#5 Positive Effects on the Skin
Marshmallow root, due to its moisturizing effects and anti-inflammatory properties, helps alleviate skin problems such as dryness, redness, and irritation. Drinking this tea from the inside of the body helps maintain subdermal moisture and makes the skin fresh and lively.
#6 Reduce Stress and Create Relaxation
Drinking marshmallow root tea helps reduce stress and anxiety due to its calming properties. Many people use it as a relaxing drink at the end of the day.
Marshmallow Root Tea Recipes
Here are two recipes for brewing marshmallow root tea.
Cold Marshmallow Root Tea
To brew cold marshmallow root tea, which preserves most of the beneficial compounds of the plant by brewing slowly and at a low temperature, you’ll need the followings:
- 2–3 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root.
- 1 glass of cold water.
How to Brew Cold Marshmallow Root Tea?
- Add drive marshmallow root to a glass container.
- Fill the container with cold water until everything is completely submerged.
- Close the container and let it sit at room temperature for 4 to 8 hours or even overnight.
- After the specified time, strain and drink.
Warm Marshmallow Root Tea
In this section, we have discussed the recipe for making warm marshmallow root tea, which releases the soothing and therapeutic properties of the plant by brewing it in hot water and making a warm drink.
To brew a cup of warm marshmallow root tea, which is a great, soothing drink for cold winters, you’ll need the following:
- 1 tablespoon dried marshmallow root
- 1 glass of boiling water
How to Brew Warm Marshmallow Root Tea?
- Place the marshmallow root in a cup.
- Pour boiling water over the root.
- Cover the cup and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and drink.
Conclusion
Marshmallow root tea is a natural and beneficial drink for daily consumption, with numerous therapeutic properties, especially in relieving coughs, sore throats, and digestive problems. The mucilage in marshmallow root reduces inflammation and prevents irritation by creating a protective layer on the mucous membrane of the throat and digestive tract. Regular consumption of this tea can help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health.
So, marshmallow root tea is not only a delicious drink, but also a natural tool for supporting the health of the throat, digestive tract, and immune system. Given its health benefits, pleasant taste, and ease of preparation, this tea is an ideal choice for anyone looking for natural solutions to improve their quality of life and overall health.
