Evidence supporting the use of: Marshmallow
For the health condition: Cough (dry)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root has a long history of use in traditional medicine for soothing dry coughs and throat irritation. Its primary traditional application stems from its high mucilage content—a gel-like substance that can coat and soothe mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. Historical records and herbal texts from ancient Greece, medieval Europe, and traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine all reference marshmallow root as a remedy for coughs, sore throats, and bronchial irritation. The mucilage acts as a demulcent, forming a protective layer over irritated tissues, thereby reducing the urge to cough and providing a sense of relief.

While there is limited modern clinical research directly evaluating marshmallow root for dry cough, some laboratory and animal studies support its mucilage’s ability to soothe inflammation and irritation. One small human study and several case reports suggest marshmallow root syrups or lozenges may help alleviate dry, tickly coughs, but these studies are generally low in quality and lack rigorous controls. Modern herbal cough syrups in Europe and some over-the-counter products continue to include marshmallow as a main ingredient, largely based on its traditional use and favorable safety profile. Overall, the evidence is stronger for traditional use than for robust scientific validation, but marshmallow remains a popular and plausible herbal remedy for dry cough symptoms.

More about marshmallow
More about Cough (dry)