Marshmallow Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Marshmallow

Marshmallow

Also known as
  • Althaea officinalis
  • Altea
  • Alteia
  • Althaeae Folium
  • Althaeae Radi
  • Althea
  • Althée
  • Guimauve
  • Guimauve Officinale
  • Gulkhairo
  • Herba Malvae
  • Mallards
  • Malvavisco
  • Marsh Maillo
  • Mauve Blanche
  • Mortification Root
  • Racine de Guimauve
  • Sweet Weed
  • Wymote
Marshmallow Marshmallow, often referred to as marshmallow root, is a plant from the Althaea genus that is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Marshmallow has been used in traditional medicine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, and as a natural remedy for various ailments, such as coughs, colds, and digestive problems. Both the marshmallow leaf and the dried root are used in herbal preparations.
There are 2004 drugs known to interact with Marshmallow

Additional Details

Is Marshmallow Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Marshmallow, when used in amounts commonly found in foods, is generally considered safe. The root and leaf have Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status in the US for use in foods. Medicinal use, both orally and topically, is also considered possibly safe. However, caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient information.

How Is Marshmallow Thought To Work? What is the Mechanism of Action?

The active parts of marshmallow are its leaves and roots, containing mucilage polysaccharides, flavonoids, glycosides, and more. Marshmallow is believed to exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and stabilizing cell membranes. It also shows antimicrobial activity, potentially aiding in wound healing. Additionally, marshmallow may have antioxidant, antiplatelet, and antitussive effects, contributing to various health benefits.

Pharmacokinetics

Marshmallow mucilage remains unchanged in the digestive tract until it reaches the colon, where bacterial action may partially or completely digest it.

Interaction Overview

Marshmallow may interact with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, lithium, and oral drugs. There's a theoretical risk of increased bleeding with anticoagulant/herb combinations. Caution is advised in these cases.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Orally and topically, no adverse effects have been reported. However, comprehensive safety evaluations are lacking. Marshmallow's effectiveness for various conditions also lacks sufficient evidence, emphasizing the need for further research.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Information about the standardization of marshmallow is insufficient. Further research is required to determine consistent formulations.

What Is Marshmallow Typically Used For?

Marshmallow has been traditionally used for respiratory conditions, wound healing, and gastrointestinal issues. However, more evidence is needed to establish its efficacy for these purposes. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals before using marshmallow for specific health concerns.

Drugs that interact with Marshmallow

Return to the main supplement interaction checker page

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLCs