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

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Synopsis

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

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for treating overacidity and other digestive complaints. In various traditional systems, particularly in European and Middle Eastern herbalism, marshmallow root and leaves were employed to soothe mucous membranes, including those lining the digestive tract. This traditional use is mainly attributed to the plant's high mucilage content—a gelatinous substance that can coat and protect the stomach lining, thereby alleviating symptoms of irritation caused by excess gastric acid. Several authoritative herbal texts, such as the German Commission E Monographs, recognize marshmallow for its demulcent (soothing) effects in the gastrointestinal tract. While there is limited robust clinical trial data specifically demonstrating marshmallow’s efficacy for overacidity (such as heartburn or gastritis), some in vitro and animal studies support its mucosal protective effects. However, these studies are preliminary and do not directly confirm its effectiveness in humans for reducing overacidity. The majority of available evidence, therefore, is based on historical and traditional use rather than rigorous modern scientific validation. In summary, marshmallow continues to be used in herbal medicine as a traditional remedy for overacidity due to its soothing, coating properties, but high-quality clinical evidence remains limited, justifying a moderate evidence rating based on tradition rather than science.

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