Marshmallow officinalis roots application. For breast augmentation

Instructions for use:

Altey - medicinal plant with expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chemical composition

The healing properties of marshmallow are known due to the roots and ground parts (flowers and leaves), and they are fully manifested only in the second year of the plant's life.

Althea root contains mucous and other colloidal substances, rutin, fatty oil, phytosterol, pectins, tannins, and vitamins.

In the grass of the plant are essential solid oils, mucus, carotene, vitamins, vitamin C, as well as calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, zinc. The main value of marshmallow is in the contained mucus, known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant effect.

Beneficial features

Medicinal properties marshmallow are due to the mucous substances contained in it in a significant amount, due to which the plant preparations:

They have enveloping and anti-inflammatory effects;
Reduce cough by improving sputum evacuation;
Prolong the action of anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed as part of a combined treatment.

decoction of marshmallow roots folk medicine used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases urinary tract and kidneys, for gargling with sore throat and washing the eyes with inflammation of the eyelids.

Also, due to the beneficial properties of marshmallow, it is used to treat diseases. gastrointestinal tract and various inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract: chronic and acute bronchitis, tracheitis.

Indications for use

The use of marshmallow is effective in the treatment of:

Angina;
Tracheitis;
diarrhea;
Gastritis;
Blepharitis;
bronchitis;
peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;
Enterocolitis
Enuresis.

Contraindications

Althea officinalis rarely causes side effects therefore, the only serious contraindication to treatment is individual intolerance. On the early dates pregnancy (1-2 trimester), drugs with marshmallow should not be taken, the question of their use for more later dates decided by the doctor.

Ready marshmallow syrup is recommended to be used with caution by diabetics. When taking it for coughing, it should be borne in mind that the syrup cannot be combined with codeine and other drugs that suppress the cough reflex, because. this can make it difficult for liquefied sputum to come out and provoke a complication of the disease.

An overdose of plant-based products may cause nausea and vomiting. In this case, you need to wash the stomach and stop using Marshmallow.

Althea home remedies

At home, marshmallow root is used for cooking medicinal tea: two teaspoons of crushed root pour 250 ml cold water, insist 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. After half an hour, the tea is well shaken and filtered, after which it is slightly warmed up and drunk slowly, in small sips.

An important feature of the use of the root and herb of Althea is that it is impossible to bring to a boil and boil infusions with the plant - the starch contained in it can turn into a paste.

You can also make tea from the marshmallow herb, which is taken orally for coughing, gastrointestinal diseases, both locally and in the form of rinses. Two teaspoons of marshmallow herb pour 250 ml hot water and let it brew for 10 minutes. To stimulate the intestines and treat the gastrointestinal tract, it is recommended to drink unsweetened tea. When coughing, honey is added to it, and for diabetics it is recommended to use stevia instead of honey.

In pediatrics, the use of marshmallow for coughing is successfully practiced - the remedy is non-toxic and different high efficiency. At the same time, both ready-made marshmallow syrup and home-cooked help. Syrup goes well with drops of anise - such a remedy treats bronchitis and relieves "barking" cough.

To prepare marshmallow syrup at home, you need to take 2 g of coarsely chopped root, put it in gauze, hang it, substitute an empty container. The root in gauze is poured with a mixture of 45 g of water and 1 g of wine alcohol, the draining liquid is collected in a container, and the root is poured into it again. Repeat this procedure for an hour. To the liquid obtained after this, add 63 g of sugar and heat until it dissolves.

Althea syrup for children over 12 years old and adults is prescribed a tablespoon up to 5 times a day. For children 6-12 years old, syrup is given in a teaspoon, for children under 6 years old - 0.5 teaspoon each. Treatment lasts 10-15 days. Before use, the syrup is recommended to be diluted with water: 50 ml of water per teaspoon of the product.

Boiled leaves of the plant are a good external remedy - they accelerate the healing of wounds and abrasions. Marshmallow root can also be consumed raw - it is chewed to relieve sore throats. Gargling with hot infusion of marshmallow is carried out with inflammation of the tonsils and gums, and its cold infusion helps with inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes and skin.

Nature generously endows us with many medicinal plants, with which it is quite possible to do without pharmaceutical preparations. Among them is Marshmallow officinalis. In pharmacology, the marshmallow root is more often used, although its ground part also has no less useful properties, you just need to know when to harvest them. The plant is now forgotten by many, although it is used in folk and official medicine. And on suburban area they rarely planted it, but in vain - marshmallow can replace a wide range of medicines.

This plant has been known since ancient times for its healing properties, since such ancient healers as Galen and Hippocrates, and later Avicenna, mentioned and praised him in their writings, and treated them with all kinds of ailments. This plant was considered a friend of both the rich and the poor, as it was available to any person.

In the wild, the plant can be found in a large part of central Russia, in Central Asia, in northern Africa. Prefers to grow in sunlit places near ponds and rivers or in wet areas.

Marshmallow is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Malvaceae family. What the plant looks like, look at the photo.

Chemical composition

Marshmallow officinalis is a leader plant in the content of all kinds of mucus, thanks to which all kinds of ulcers are treated. In addition to mucous substances, there is quite a lot of starch, sugars, organic acids, tannins, essential oils, and lecithin. The composition contains carotene (vitamin A) and ascorbic acid, mineral salts etc.

Quantity useful substances in the plant depends on the time of year. So in summer there are more of them in the ground part of the plant, and by autumn - in the roots. But still, it is believed that the greatest amount of useful substances is contained in the rhizome of the plant, in leaves, stems and flowers - there are fewer of them.

In terms of chemical composition, and above all in terms of the amount of mucus-containing substances, marshmallow is equivalent.

Medicinal properties

peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum 12, and aqueous solutions in large doses work even better, especially with increased acidity of the stomach;
inflammatory diseases of the larynx, tonsils;
skin diseases - externally in the form of lotions for psoriasis, eczema, boils, burns, acne;
in the form of rinses for inflammation in the oral cavity and in the form of enemas for diarrhea and colitis.

The plant has an emollient and expectorant effect. Infusions and syrups with marshmallow root soothe dry cough, which is beneficial for the treatment of cough with inflammatory diseases bronchi and lungs - laryngitis, pharyngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchial asthma, as well as with and.

And the anti-inflammatory action helps to cope with the infection faster, improving general state body and increase resistance to infections.

Preparations with marshmallow root help with hair loss, healing substances strengthen hair follicles, thereby accelerating hair growth, increase hair.

Contraindications

Marshmallow is a plant for which contraindications are not described, however, care must be taken when using preparations from it. You need to be careful:

If available allergic reactions and individual intolerance;
Pregnant and lactating women should never abuse drugs with marshmallow;
It is not recommended to use infusions and syrups with marshmallow root, prepared at home, for children under 3 years of age. In such situations, buy syrup at a pharmacy and be sure to read the instructions for use;
When treating a cough with marshmallow root, it should not be combined with other stronger synthetic drugs: possible deterioration and complications.

How to prepare and store?

All parts of the plant are medicinal (leaves, flowers, stem), but pharmacologists prefer to collect the roots of the plant, since it contains the highest concentration of nutrients.

If you decide to prepare the ground part of the plant, then it is better to harvest raw materials in June-July, that is, at the time when the plant blooms. Moreover, it is recommended to collect separately both leaves, and flowers, and a stem. Dry them in a ventilated place under a canopy, avoid getting sun rays on raw materials.

Harvesting of the roots is carried out in September-October, when the stems of the plant are already withered and dry. It is better to harvest the roots of a 2-year-old age: the plant begins to bloom in the second year, and the roots of a 3-4-year-old plant become stiff and stiff, and the supply of healing substances in them decreases.

After extraction from the ground, the roots are shaken off, side shoots are removed, washed and left to dry for 2-3 days. The dried roots are then cut into small pieces and left to dry in a ventilated room or in a dryer at a temperature of no more than 40º, otherwise the healing substances will be destroyed. Dry the roots until they break.

Store dried raw materials in tightly closed containers. glass jars or in paper bags in a dry place for no more than 2 years.

Medicines and application

Infusion for cough

3 teaspoons of crushed raw materials are poured into 1 glass of warm water, allowed to brew for an hour, then filtered. Take when coughing 1 tablespoon every 2 hours.

Infusion for skin diseases

1 st. l. raw materials are poured into 1 glass boiled water, cooled to room temperature, leave for an hour to infuse, strain. A gauze napkin is wetted in the infusion and applied to the sore spot in the morning and evening.

Vodka tincture

The tincture has a high expectorant effect and anti-inflammatory effect in diseases of the upper respiratory tract.

To prepare it, pour 0.5 liters of vodka into 20 grams of chopped roots and place in a dark place, tightly closing the container with a lid. Insist 10 days, then strain. Before use, dilute 10-15 drops of tincture in warm water, take before meals three times a day.

Althea root decoction for coughing

To 1 cup of boiling water add 2 tbsp. l. crushed dry roots and leave to simmer on the water yuan for another half hour. Leave to cool for 10 minutes, strain. Bring the resulting broth to a volume of 200 ml boiled water. It should be taken hot, 50 ml 3-4 times a day.

Althea root syrup

It is convenient to give the syrup to young children - the sweet taste of the medicine will not cause backlash to take medication.

The syrup can be prepared in two ways:

Add sweet fruit juice to the freshly prepared infusion, mix and give the child a teaspoonful of coughing several times a day. The course is no more than 10-15 days.
To 100 ml of freshly prepared infusion add 200 g of granulated sugar and boil for at least 1 hour.

Marshmallow root extract - a dark amber powder that can be added when preparing fees;
Mukaltin tablets - the composition contains marshmallow root extract and sodium bicarbonate (soda);
Medicinal collection No. 1: marshmallow roots + coltsfoot leaves + oregano herb. When coughing 1 tbsp. l. collection brew hot water, insist, filter. Take 50 ml no more than 4 times a day.
Medicinal collection No. 2: marshmallow roots + licorice roots + elecampane roots. 2 tsp swords are brewed in a glass of hot water, insisted, filtered. Take in a warm form for half a glass every 3 hours.

If necessary, you can prepare an infusion of marshmallow flowers for kids, and the effect will be only if you make an infusion of fresh flowers.

How to grow marshmallow in your garden?

Marshmallow is an unpretentious plant, but for planting, choose a sunny place with moist, fertile soil. The plant propagates by dividing the bush or seeds. Reproduction by rhizomes can be carried out in spring or autumn.

Sowing seeds is carried out in early spring. Before planting, it is recommended to soak the seeds in warm water for a day. Sowing is done at a depth of 2 cm, the distance between seeds is at least 50 cm.

The plant does not require special care, it is enough to periodically loosen the ground near the seedlings and remove the weeds.

Dear readers, today you learned about such a medicinal plant as marshmallow, how to prepare medicines from marshmallow roots, and even how to grow it on your site. If you do not want to grow it, then it will not be difficult to buy it at a pharmacy, especially since the price of these drugs is not high, in the range of 30-60 rubles. Be healthy!

Althaea officinalis L.

In modern medicine, marshmallow medicinal use finds as an anti-inflammatory, enveloping, emollient and expectorant.

Marshmallow officinalis is a perennial herbaceous plant of the mallow family, dicotyledonous class. Marshmallow plant 80-150 cm high, densely pubescent, with a powerful branched rhizome, erect stem, sometimes several stems, branched in the upper part, with pink, rarely white flowers. Flowers like mallow, only smaller, up to 2.5 cm in diameter, located in the axils of the upper leaves. The leaves are unevenly toothed, pubescent, velvety, alternate.

The fruit of the marshmallow is a flat disc-shaped dry polysemyanka of 8-25 decaying fruitlets that ripen in July-October.

Found in the middle and southern part European territory countries, in the south of Siberia, in the Crimea in wet places in meadows, along ditches, along river banks, among shrubs, in forests.

Marshmallow officinalis is grown in specialized farms on large areas in the Altai and Kuban.

Marshmallow officinalis blooms from June to September, grass - the aerial part of the plant is harvested during flowering. The main medicinal raw materials are rhizomes and roots, which contain up to 35% of mucous substances related to polysaccharides, which determines the use of Marshmallow officinalis in medicine and determines the main medicinal properties of Marshmallow preparations.

Althea roots contain a lot of starch, cane sugar, pectin substances, as well as the amino acids necessary for the human body asparagine up to 19.8% and betaine up to 4%. Althea roots are harvested in spring in March-May or in autumn in September-November after flowering. The roots are cut, washed quickly in running water, then cut and dried in a warm, ventilated room, in good weather outside or in a drying cabinet at a temperature of 35 ÷ 40 ° C, spreading thin layer. Store in a dry place, shelf life is 3 years.

Marshmallow has been used in folk medicine since ancient times. The ancient Greek scholar Theophrastus (372 - 287 BC) wrote that this plant is “given for fractures and coughs with sweet wine and applied to boils along with olive oil". Marshmallow as a medicinal plant was used as early as the 4th century BC. e. They were treated in Ancient Greece and Rome, and in the Middle Ages it was already grown in monastic gardens.

The scientific name of the genus Althaea and the Russian generic name Althea comes from Greek word alihainein, which means to heal - according to the medicinal properties of the plant. The scientific species name officinalis means pharmacy, medicinal.

Marshmallow Root Medicinal Properties Uses of Marshmallow Root

In official and folk medicine, preparations from marshmallow roots are used for tracheitis, laryngitis, chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, whooping cough; with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract; with inflammation of the bladder, inflammatory processes in the kidneys.

The mucous substances that make up the preparations of Marshmallow officinalis cover the mucous membranes with a thin layer, protecting them from irritation, as a result of which inflammation decreases and the regeneration of tissues of the mucous membranes improves in case of respiratory diseases, in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - gastritis, enterocolitis, peptic ulcer stomach and duodenum.

With diseases of the respiratory system, with inflammation of the throat, bronchitis, pneumonia;

with gastrointestinal diseases: gastritis, especially with high acidity of gastric juice, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, diarrhea:

1. Althea root infusion:

Two tables. spoons of crushed marshmallow roots are poured with a glass of cold boiled water, insisted for 4 hours. Take as an expectorant 5-6 times a day, 1 tbsp. spoon.

Children can be given an infusion of 1 teaspoon 5 times a day.

2. Decoction of marshmallow root:

Two st. l. crushed marshmallow roots pour a glass of boiling water, boil for 30 minutes, leave for 15 minutes. The decoction is taken warm 1/3 cup 4 times a day.

Infusion and decoction of Althea are used externally for compresses, poultices, enemas.

With inflammatory processes in the mouth and throat, for washing the eyes, with inflammation of the eyelids use infusion and decoction of marshmallow root.

With pulmonary tuberculosis use a decoction of marshmallow roots in milk.

Infusion and decoction of flowers and leaves of Althea are used with inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, inflammation of the eyelids, for gargling.

Infusion of marshmallow herb is used for colds and inflammatory processes:

One st. l. crushed leaves, flowers, stems of marshmallow officinalis, 1 tbsp. l. leaves of coltsfoot pour a glass of boiling water in an enamel or glass bowl, close the lid, put in a water bath (large bowl with boiling water). Boil for 15 minutes, leave for 45 minutes, strain, bring the volume to the initial. Drink with honey 1/3 cup 3-4 times a day.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Hypersensitivity to marshmallow preparations, allergic reaction.

Watch a short video:

We treat the lungs with Althea

The use of Althea officinalis in cosmetology

Marshmallow officinalis has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Due to the rich content of biologically active substances, anti-inflammatory, astringent properties of the marshmallow plant are successfully used in cosmetology.

For oily facial skin with acne, prepare an aqueous infusion:

Pour one to two tablespoons of crushed marshmallow root with 1 glass of cold boiled water, leave for 2 hours, strain. Use for compresses and lotions - removes inflammatory process, skin irritation.

For oily skin prone to inflamed acne, masks made from finely chopped marshmallow leaves are very useful.

With abscesses, poultices from the leaves and flowers of Althea help well.

A little more about marshmallow medicinal use

In medicine, marshmallow roots are used in the form of powder, dry extract and marshmallow syrup.

The medicinal properties of marshmallow are widely used by the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmacies have medications based on the root of marshmallow:

marshmallow syrup;
marshmallow roots;
chest fees with coltsfoot, licorice, elecampane;
breast teas with licorice, anise, sage and other medicinal plants.

Marshmallow herb - basic active substance in tablets mukaltin.

Roots, young shoots and leaves of marshmallow are eaten raw and boiled, used for making salads, jelly. Ground roots are added to the dough when baking bread.

Marshmallow officinalis is a good honey plant.

Marshmallow stems contain about 13% coarse bast fiber, they can be used to weave strong ropes and mats.

Marshmallow may be suitable for the paper industry.

Althea flowers contain the dyes malvin and melvidin, from the flowers a permanent dye is obtained for dyeing wool in red, and also, depending on additives, in dark blue, gray and purple tones.

Botanical characteristic

Marshmallow is a plant from the mallow family, that is, its closest relative is the same mallow that adorns flower beds and gardens.

In the wild, marshmallow is found, as a rule, in wet areas near swamps, lakes, on the banks of rivers and in meadows, although some herbalists have successfully accustomed this grass to their gardens and kitchen gardens. Marshmallow is distributed throughout almost all of Europe and Asia, it grows on the American continent and in northern Africa. Experts counted 12 varieties of marshmallow, but only three of them have medicinal properties: medicinal marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), Armenian marshmallow (Althaea armenica) and hemp marshmallow (Althaea cannabina).

Marshmallow officinalis is perennial grass with tall (sometimes up to 2 meters) erect stems. Outwardly, the plant is very similar to decorative mallow. The leaves of this herb are elliptical in shape, dissected into 5 or 3 segments, soft to the touch, as if covered with a felt layer. The stem is also hairy. The rhizome consists of the main woody root and a large number of fleshy lateral ones.

During almost the entire summer, this grass pleases the eye with rather large pale pink flowers, which are placed in groups along the entire length of the stem. By the way, marshmallow begins to bloom only in the second year of life. In autumn, fruits appear: in one disc-shaped polyseed, there can be from 15 to 25 flat dark gray seeds.

The chemical composition and useful properties of the other two varieties of marshmallow (Armenian and hemp) are identical to marshmallow. Marshmallow Armenian is distinguished by more fluffy leaves, and this grass grows mainly in the Crimea and the Sea of \u200b\u200bAzov. Cannabis Marshmallow has narrower leaves and bright red flowers. And you can find this grass in the south of Ukraine and on rocky slopes among shrubs in the Crimea.

Chemical composition

Researchers find chemical elements useful for humans in all parts of the plant, but still their maximum concentration is concentrated in the roots, which are actually used by pharmacists and herbalists most often.

The roots of any marshmallow contain the most (almost 35% of the composition) and (about 37%). The mucous substances in the plant are usually polysaccharides, which, as a result of hydrolysis, are converted into galactose, dextrose, arabinose and pentose. By the way, in a smaller amount, but still quite a lot of mucus was found in grass leaves (within 12-13%) and in flowers (up to 6%).

In addition to starches and mucous substances, scientists found in the roots of marshmallow high content, betaine, lycetin, mineral salts and healthy oils. The amount of micro and macro substances in this part of the plant is also impressive. Althea roots are a storehouse,. In this part, the researchers found, as well as some reserves, nitrogen, lead and. The leaves of the grass are rich in essential oils, rubber-like substances, and carotene.

What is useful marshmallow

Marshmallow belongs to those plants, oh useful properties which you can write treatises. And all because it has a beneficial effect on almost all organs and systems. For example, marshmallow is useful for digestive, respiratory, urogenital systems, it has good analgesic properties, copes with diseases of the oral cavity, eyes and skin, restores the integrity of the mucous membranes of the human body, helps to resist viral diseases, strengthens the immune system. And recent research suggests marshmallow may be beneficial for people with diabetes as it regulates blood sugar levels.

Unique in terms of healing properties are the mucus contained in the marshmallow. Researchers often compare them with mucus from, since chemical composition both are almost identical. Althea mucus is useful for tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, they have mucolytic properties.

In addition, marshmallow root treats sore throat, jaundice, candidiasis, urinary problems, removes stones from the bladder. Decoction compresses are useful for joint pain, tremors in the limbs, muscle pain, they relieve swelling, including in places of insect bites.

By the way, Althea extract is useful for people with overweight, because it reduces appetite and creates a feeling of satiety. During diets, marshmallow is useful as a means of improving intestinal motility and removing toxins from the body.

On the Internet, information is “walking” about another amazing ability of Althea - to increase the size female breast. It is said that a miracle remedy should be prepared from the crushed root part and (a glass of hot milk per tablespoon of dry root) and drunk twice a day. Researchers are in no hurry to make fun of this recipe, since marshmallow really has the ability to regulate hormonal background in human body. However, the result of taking such a natural medicine, if any, is not very noticeable and only after a few months regular intake. But for women during PMS or menopause, this ability of Althea will be most welcome.

Use in pharmacology

Althea root has been known in medicine for more than a century. The healing properties of the herb were mentioned by Hippocrates, and in the Middle Ages this medicine was used by Paracelsus, Albert the Great, the Arab healer Avicenna, as well as the Benedictine monks, who specially grew marshmallow in their gardens.

Official pharmacology usually uses marshmallow roots and seeds as a remedy. By the way, the popular cough medicine "Mukaltin" is made from marshmallow. Preparations based on marshmallow extract for internal use have enveloping properties, due to which they are considered useful for damage to the gastric mucosa. Many remedies for the treatment of gastritis with hyperacidity they basically contain marshmallow, since the mucus of this herb, reacting with HCl in the stomach, increases its viscosity and covers the walls of the digestive organ with a dense layer, protecting it from acid exposure. In pharmacies, marshmallow products are presented in the form of infusions, syrups, mixtures, herbal preparations, extracts.

Application in traditional medicine

As already mentioned, expressed healing properties it is the roots of this herb that possess, although in many folk recipes marshmallow greens are also used.

Roots

Water infusions from marshmallow roots (1 tablespoon and a glass of boiling water, infused in a water bath for 20 minutes) are the most popular folk weapon against sore throats and other throat diseases. Rinse well with this medicine oral cavity with inflammation of the gums or violations of the integrity of the mucous membrane. By the way, for the treatment of the throat, the infusion is suitable both as a gargle and for oral administration (10-20 ml every 2-3 hours, you can add a little).

With tracheitis, bronchitis and some other respiratory ailments in children, nice results gives the reception of syrup from the roots of marshmallow. This tool can be bought at any pharmacy, or you can do it yourself at home. Herbalists prepare this medicine as follows: powdered dry marshmallow roots are added to sugar syrup (in a ratio of 98: 2). When the powder is soaked, the mixture is stirred and heated well over low heat. After cooling, the medicine is ready for use.

The root part of marshmallow is often introduced into herbal preparations for teas intended to treat stomach or duodenal ulcers. At the very popular recipe this type in equal proportions includes the roots of marshmallow, comfrey (larkspur) and licorice (). From a tablespoon of phytomixture and a glass of hot water, tea is brewed for 5 minutes, which is advised to drink before bedtime.

Root decoction traditional healers it is advised to wash wounds, burns, pustules on the skin. This tool is useful for external application with furunculosis and dermatomycosis. And for the treatment of tuberculosis, it is advised to drink a milk decoction of marshmallow root.

Leaves

Juice from fresh marshmallow leaves (usually using juicy greens collected in early summer) is also a useful medicine. If you take 20 ml of marshmallow juice three times a day (sweeten a little with honey), you can cure bronchitis, persistent cough, gastritis, enterocolitis, diarrhea, cystitis. This remedy is useful in asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis and many other diseases. Grass juice is useful for external use. They are advised to wash their eyes, burns, pustules.

A decoction of a mixture of leaves and roots can be used as a mild laxative, medicine for enterocolitis, or to gargle a sore throat.

A decoction and infusions from the flowers of this herb have the same effect as preparations from the roots of marshmallow.

Use in cosmetology

To all of the above, marshmallow is also useful in cosmetology. In particular, as a means to relieve irritation and inflammation on the skin, to accelerate cell regeneration and moisturize the skin, treat acne and acne. For dry facial skin, for example, lotions from an infusion prepared from a glass of boiling water and one and a half tablespoons of dry crushed roots will be useful. The same tool is useful to wash the skin after shaving, peeling or vacuum massage. Marshmallow leaves have antioxidant properties that prevent skin aging, restore its healthy glow and beautiful color.

For hair, marshmallow is useful as a remedy for baldness and stimulating the growth of new hair. As a remedy for restoring curls, a remedy made from marshmallow seeds and vegetable oil (1 tablespoon of seeds per 150 ml of oil) has proven itself well. It is useful to rub this mixture into the scalp 1-2 times a week. The course of treatment consists of 15-20 procedures.

Contraindications and possible harm Althea

The list of contraindications for taking Althea-based drugs is small, but still it exists. So, this herb should not be used when lung diseases accompanied by complications respiratory function, at varicose veins veins, thrombophlebitis, chronic constipation, as well as women in the first trimester of pregnancy.

How to collect and prepare

Herbalists usually harvest marshmallow roots, which are considered the most useful part plants. According to the rules, the roots should be dug up either in late autumn (after the aerial parts have dried) or in early spring (until the grass has grown). Conscientious herbalists never take the entire root of the plant, but leave about a third of the rhizome so that the marshmallow can continue to grow and multiply. If you follow this rule, then after 3-4 years the plant will grow back to its previous size.

The roots of Althea are quite large and strong, so you will need a shovel for harvesting. For medicinal purposes, only juicy lateral roots are taken; the central woody one is not suitable for use. fresh roots should be mucous, with a slight odor and a sweetish aftertaste. The collected roots are cleaned from the ground, washed, divided into pieces of 25 cm, if they are very thick, then cut into several pieces along. Some herbalists clean the roots of the gray skin before drying. The prepared raw materials are dried in the oven (at temperatures up to 50 degrees) or in well-ventilated areas. However, when dried outdoors, the roots are prone to rotting. Well-dried raw materials can be stored in a linen bag or in sealed packaging for 3 years.

Flowers and leaves have a less pronounced healing power. But if these parts of the plant are harvested, then it is advised to do this exclusively in initial stage flowering grass.

Interestingly, in some regions marshmallow is used not only for treatment, but also for food. In particular, fresh young leaves are added to salads, older ones are boiled, stewed, added as a spicy herb to soups and stews. Roots, if added to dishes, are only boiled.

Altea is a delightful culture. Its stems are used to make paper and rope, a natural dye obtained from the flowers is used to dye wool, and the oil from the seeds is useful in chemical industry(added to varnishes and paints). But besides this, marshmallow is the most useful medicinal herb, correct use which will help to get rid of many diseases.

ALTHAEA OFFICINALIS L

(from the Greek "alcea" - healing) - a perennial herb from the mallow family. Stem one or more, erect, grayish-green, felt-fibrous, woody below, up to 1.5 m in height. Leaves are three-five-lobed, alternate, long-petiolate. The flowers are pale pink, five-petalled, located in the axils of the upper leaves at the top of the stems, forming spike-shaped inflorescences. The rhizome of marshmallow is thick, short, many-headed, with a powerful stem, in the upper part a lignified root, reaching 50 cm in length; roots fleshy, whitish. Blooms from June to August. Honey plant. There is information about the toxicity of the plant.

Marshmallow is common in Ukraine, in the southern regions of Belarus and in the North Caucasus, in the Volga region, Central Asia, Eastern and Western Siberia. Marshmallow medicinal asthet on loose moist soils, in meadows, among shrubs in floodplains and along river banks.

Non-woody and peeled lateral roots are used, collected in spring (March - April) or autumn (September - October), when the stems die. The smell is weak, peculiar, the taste is sweetish, slimy. The flowers and leaves of marshmallow are harvested during the initial flowering period.

The action and use of Althea

Althea preparations have expectorant, emollient, anti-inflammatory properties, due to the content of mucous substances, starch and other colloidal substances. These substances have enveloping action and protect the nerve endings of the mucous membrane of the oropharynx and gastrointestinal tract from various irritants, help slow down the absorption and prolong the local action of various drugs.

They are used mainly in the catarrhal state of the respiratory tract, with diarrhea, acute gastritis, enterocolitis, with ulcerative processes on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. Althea preparations are especially indicated in pediatric practice. with cough, whooping cough.

Abu Ali Ibn-Sina recommended a decoction of the roots, seeds and leaves of marshmallow as an expectorant, emollient for coughs, pneumonia, pleurisy, hemoptysis, stones in bladder, difficulty urinating and even with tumors.

The root, flowers and leaves are used as an enveloping, anti-inflammatory agent for diseases of the lungs and bronchi.

In Russian folk medicine, marshmallow root is used for catarrhal inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, flu, tonsillitis, jaundice. Outwardly in the form of infusion with conjunctivitis, for gargling with angina, with diarrhea(in enemas), and with whites in the form of douches with the addition oak bark. Infusions, decoctions, extracts, syrups and powders are prepared from the root. Previously, candies were prepared from the powder, soothing coughs, added to various potions so that the medicines that make up the potions do not irritate the walls of the stomach and intestines. A decoction of the root, infused for several hours in a sealed container, is used in a mixture with honey for coughing, 2-3 teaspoons.

In Bulgaria, biennial marshmallow roots without bark are used for inflammatory diseases of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, for cough, whooping cough, diseases urinary organs, gastric ulcer, diarrhea. The infusion is prepared in a cold way: 6-8 g of crushed root is poured with cold water for an hour, filtered through cheesecloth, sugar or honey is added. Take 20 g every 2 hours. When inflammation of the gums, tonsils and throat is used as a hot infusion for rinsing.

In France, marshmallow is used as an enveloping emollient against coughs in the form of a decoction, infusion and soaking the crushed root with cold water, from which a clear mucous liquid is obtained. In addition to the root, flowers and leaves are used as a good remedy for soothing irritation of the pharynx and trachea. In children's practice, the child is recommended to chew the marshmallow root, after which dental treatment begins.

In Austria, the roots, leaves and flowers of marshmallow are used in the form of a cold infusion, decoction, tincture. in bronchitis, catarrh of the throat and as an eyewash. The plant is recommended as good remedy for home first aid kit.

In Germany, marshmallow roots and leaves are also used as an enveloping and anti-inflammatory agent. in diseases of the lungs, throat, digestive tract; externally for skin diseases and as a rinse, especially in pediatric practice. Apply as a cold infusion.

Even in ancient times, marshmallows were known and valued as a medicinal plant. The name itself speaks of its healing properties (from the Greek althaea to heal). Marshmallow has been used since the century BC. It is mentioned by Theophrastus, Dioscorides and Pliny, it was cultivated in Ancient Rome, grown in the monastery gardens.

Collection and drying of marshmallow raw materials

Medicinal raw materials are marshmallow roots (Radix Althaeae). Harvest them in the fall after the stems have dried or in early spring. Harvesting should be carried out selectively, leaving up to 30% of plants for the restoration of thickets. Subject to the harvesting rules, Althea thickets are restored after 3-4 years, after which they can be re-harvested. They dig up the roots with shovels, and in extensive thickets with plows. Then they are freed from the ground, the stems, the capitate parts of the rhizomes and the main taproot, usually woody, unsuitable for use, are removed. Non-lignified roots are washed, slightly dried, cut into pieces 30-35 cm long (thick fleshy ones are split lengthwise into 2-4 parts). To obtain purified raw materials, a gray cork is scraped off the roots with a knife.

Immediately after processing, the raw material is dried, laying it loosely, in a thin layer on nets or stretched panels. Drying is best done with artificial heating in ventilated rooms or in special dryers at a temperature of 45-50 ° C and good ventilation. When roots are dried in air, raw materials containing a lot of starch usually quickly rot and become moldy. Well-dried roots break with a crack. Shelf life of raw materials is 3 years. The whole plant is odorless, the taste is sweetish-tart.

The chemical composition of Marshmallow officinalis

In the roots of Marshmallow officinalis, a large amount of mucous substances (up to 35%) was found, which mainly consist of polysaccharides that decompose during hydrolysis into galactose, arabinose, pentose and dextrose. In addition, the roots of the plant contain starch (up to 37%), pectin (10-11%), sugars, asparagine, betaine, carotene, lecithin, phytosterol, mineral salts and fatty oils (up to 1.7%). The leaves also contain mucus (up to 12.5%), essential oil (0.02%), rubber-like substances, ascorbic acid, carotene. In flowers, the content of mucus reaches 5.8%.

Medicinal properties of Marshmallow officinalis

Marshmallow root is a typical representative of drugs related to mucus, in terms of the content of active compounds, it is almost equivalent in this respect to flax seeds. Facilitates spontaneous tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation. Acting as a protector, softens dense inflammatory plaque. Has expectorant action. Aqueous extract of marshmallow root, taken orally in sufficient large dose, acts enveloping and on the gastric mucosa. Its protective effect is the more effective and longer, the higher the acidity. gastric juice, since the viscosity of mucus increases when it comes into contact with hydrochloric acid released during gastric secretion.

The use of marshmallow in modern medicine

Althea roots. Powder, infusion and syrup - as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent for respiratory diseases and as part of chest collections. Marshmallow syrup, in addition, for correcting the taste of medicines and in cough mixtures used in pediatrics. In folk medicine, infusion and decoction - for tuberculosis, cough, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, for washing eyes with blepharitis; for the treatment of gastritis, enterocolitis, cystitis, diarrhea; to eliminate irritation during inflammatory and ulcerative processes of the mucous membranes and as a means of slowing down the absorption of various soluble drugs. Also for tumors, burns, dermatomycosis, furunculosis and for the treatment of pustular skin diseases. In Azerbaijan - for the treatment of scabies and allergic dermatoses, in Tajikistan - emetic.

Above-ground part of the aletheus officinalis. Received the drug "Mukaltin" - for the treatment of bronchitis, pneumonia and bronchiectasis.

marshmallow juice- in diseases of the upper respiratory tract (tuberculosis, cough, bronchitis, bronchial asthma), gastritis, cystitis, diarrhea; externally - with blepharitis for washing the eyes, tumors, burns, ringworm, furunculosis, pustular diseases skin.

marshmallow leaves. In folk medicine, a decoction is used, like the root, as an emollient, enveloping agent with bronchitis and enterocolitis; externally - in the form of gargles for the throat, enemas, poultices; infusion - with acute enterocolitis.

Althea flowers. Decoction and infusion are used in the same way as the root. In Azerbaijan - tea for coughs and colds.

Poultices- with tumors.

Preparations from aletya officinalis

Dosage forms, method of administration and doses:

Marshmallow root decoction (Decoctum radicis Althaeae): 6 g (2 tablespoons) of raw materials are placed in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, cover with a lid and heat in boiling water (in a water bath) for 30 minutes, cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, filter. The remaining raw material is squeezed out. The volume of the resulting infusion is adjusted with boiled water to 200 ml. The prepared broth is stored in a cool place for no more than 2 days. Taken hot, 1/3-1/2 cup 3-4 times a day after meals.

Marshmallow Root Infusion (Infusum radicis Althaeae)- transparent, yellowish color, mucous on taste, with a weak peculiar smell liquid. Finely cut root, with particles no more than 3 mm, in the amount of 6.5 g, pour 100 ml of water at room temperature, leave for 1 hour. Take 1 tablespoon after 2 hours.

Dry Marshmallow Root Extract (Extractum Althaeae siccum)- powder of grayish-yellow color, peculiar sweetish taste.

Liquid Marshmallow Root Extract (Extractum Althaeae fluidum)- a thick liquid of dark amber color, a peculiar sweet taste, almost odorless.

Marshmallow syrup (Sirupus Althaeae) consists of dry marshmallow root extract (2 parts), sugar syrup (98 parts). It is a clear yellowish liquid with a peculiar sweet taste. Used in potions to improve taste and as a coating.

Mukaltin (Mucaltinum) is a mixture of polysaccharides (dry mucus) from the marshmallow herb. Greenish tablets contain 0.05 g of mucaltin, 0.087 g of sodium bicarbonate and 0.16 g of tartaric acid. Assign 1-2 tablets per reception before meals. Indications are the same as for all preparations of marshmallow root.

Paracodin (Paracodin)- Made in Germany. 5 ml syrup (1 teaspoon) contains 12 mg dehydrocodeine tartrate, 60.5 mg marshmallow liquid extract and 90.7 mg grindelia liquid extract. The drug has a more pronounced antitussive effect than codeine. It is also an expectorant and analgesic. The drug suppresses not only cough, but everything pain occurring in the respiratory tract. Produced in the form of syrup in bottles of 100 ml. It is used for cough resulting from irritation of the mucous membrane in inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, as well as bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, coughing with emphysema and pulmonary tuberculosis. Adults are prescribed 1-2 teaspoons of paracodin syrup 3 times a day; children aged 4 to 12 months - 1/4 teaspoon 3 times a day; children younger age-1/4-1/2 teaspoon; older children - 1/2-1 teaspoon.

Side effect: Newborns and young children may experience constipation. With caution, the drug should be prescribed to people with diabetes, since 1 teaspoon of syrup contains approximately 1 g of glucose.
Contraindications: impaired respiratory function of the lungs, persistent chronic constipation during the first months of pregnancy.

Dry cough mixture for children (Mixtura sicca contra tussim pro infantibus). Ingredients: dry marshmallow root extract - 4 g, sodium bicarbonate and sodium benzoate - 2 g each, dry licorice root extract - 1 g, ammonium chloride - 0.5 g, anise oil - 0.05 g, sugar - 10 g Burovato - gray powder with the smell of anise oil. Water solution(1:10) is brown. Used as an expectorant and antitussive.

Breast collection No. 1 (Species pectorales No. 1): marshmallow roots and coltsfoot leaves - 2 parts each, oregano herbs - 1 part. Prepare an infusion of 1 tablespoon of the mixture per 200 ml of water. Insist 20 minutes, then filter. Take in a warm form, 1/2 cup 3-4 times a day after meals.
Breast collection No. 2 (Species pectorales No. 2): marshmallow roots, licorice roots, elecampane roots - 1 part each. Prepare a decoction of 2 teaspoons of the mixture in 200 ml of water. Take in a warm form, 1/2 cup every 3 hours.
Breast collection No. 3 (Species pectorales No. 3): crushed marshmallow root and crushed licorice root - 28.8 g each, sage leaves, anise fruits and crushed pine buds - 14.4 g each. Method of application - see Breast collection No. 1.
Other nursing fees are also produced, which include Marshmallow officinalis.

marshmallow juice. Use the aerial part of the plant, collected during flowering. Take 1 tablespoon (mixed with honey) 3 times a day as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent.

The use of marshmallow in other areas

Marshmallow roots are edible raw and boiled, they can be used to make milk porridge, jelly. When ground, they can be used as an admixture for bread. Roots in veterinary medicine - for inflammation of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, to reduce local action irritants. Suitable for making glue. The stems contain up to 10-13% strong fiber suitable for making ropes and rough paper. In Sardinia, it is grown as a bast crop. Althea flowers dye wool in red, by mordant - in bluish-black, gray and dark purple. fatty oil from fruits are used in paint and varnish production. Honey plant. Decorative. Cultivated in Ukraine, Moldova, the North Caucasus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, France, India, USA. In Sri Lanka, it is grown as a vegetable plant (leaves).

How to grow marshmallow officinalis in the backyard

Marshmallow prefers light, moist soils with shallow groundwater. The best predecessors are busy fallow, fodder and vegetable crops. When cultivating it, the soil is plowed to a depth of 25-28 cm. For sowing, 1-2-year-old seeds are used, previously dried to a loose state. To increase field germination before sowing, they are soaked for a day in water at a temperature of 20-25 ° C. Seeds are sown in early spring or before winter in rows with row spacing 70 cm wide to a depth of 1.5-2 cm (on light soils - 3-4 cm). After germination, the plants are thinned out, leaving 8-10 pcs. by 1 m. Sometimes marshmallows are propagated by dividing rhizomes or seedlings. Productivity in culture of dry roots - 10-25 c/hectare.