Marshmallow is a plant. The leaves and the root are used to make medicine. Don’t confuse marshmallow with the mallow (Malva sylvestris) flower and leaf.
Marshmallow leaf and root are commonly used by mouth to treat stomach ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, swelling of the stomach lining, and pain and swelling of the mucous membranes that line the respiratory tract. But there is limited scientific evidence to support these and other uses.
In foods, marshmallow leaf and root are used as a flavoring agent.
How does it work?
Marshmallow forms a protective layer on the skin and lining of the digestive tract. It also contains chemicals that might decrease cough and help heal wounds by decreasing inflammation and fighting certain "bugs".(microbes).