Evidence supporting the use of: Marshmallow
For the health condition: Lesions

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) has a long history of traditional use for soothing various types of lesions, particularly those affecting the skin and mucous membranes. The roots and leaves of the marshmallow plant contain mucilage, a gelatinous substance that forms a protective layer when applied topically or ingested. In traditional herbal medicine systems, marshmallow preparations have been applied to wounds, ulcers, burns, and inflammatory skin conditions to help reduce irritation, promote healing, and protect the affected area from further damage. The mucilage is believed to soothe and moisturize tissues, which can be particularly beneficial in cases where lesions are accompanied by dryness or inflammation.

While there is some preclinical evidence suggesting that marshmallow extracts may exhibit anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Most of the support for marshmallow's use in treating lesions comes from historical records and anecdotal reports rather than modern scientific validation. As a result, while the traditional use of marshmallow for lesions is well-documented and plausible based on its physical properties, its efficacy and safety for this indication have not been firmly established in the scientific literature. Therefore, marshmallow is best considered a traditional remedy for lesions, with a moderate level of supporting evidence derived from herbal medicine practices and limited preliminary research.

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