Marshmallow: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) is a plant. The leaves and the root are sometimes used to make medicine.

Marshmallow is sometimes used to form a protective layer on the skin and lining of the digestive tract. It also contains chemicals that might decrease cough and fight infections. Don't confuse marshmallow with the mallow (Malva sylvestris) flower and leaf.

Marshmallow leaf and root are commonly used by mouth for stomach ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Marshmallow overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Marshmallow root and leaf are likely safe when taken in the amounts found in foods. It is possibly safe to take the root and leaf in larger amounts as medicine. There isn't enough reliable information to know if marshmallow flower is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Marshmallow is possibly safe when applied directly to the skin.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if marshmallow is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Bleeding disorders: Taking marshmallow might increase your risk of bleeding.

Surgery: Marshmallow flower might slow blood clotting. There is a concern that it could increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgical procedures. Stop taking marshmallow flower at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Lithium interacts with Marshmallow
Marshmallow might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking marshmallow might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Marshmallow
Marshmallow might slow blood clotting. Taking marshmallow along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

Medications taken by mouth (Oral drugs) interacts with Marshmallow
Marshmallow contains a type of soft fiber called mucilage. Mucilage can decrease how much medicine the body absorbs. Taking marshmallow at the same time you take medications by mouth can decrease the effectiveness of your medication. To prevent this interaction, take marshmallow at least one hour after medications you take by mouth.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of marshmallow might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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Marshmallow - Uses, Side Effects, and More