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

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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, particularly for soothing mucous membranes and alleviating respiratory conditions such as pleurisy. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity, often causing sharp chest pain with breathing. Traditional herbalists have valued marshmallow root for its demulcent properties—meaning it can form a soothing film over mucous membranes, potentially reducing irritation in the respiratory tract.

Historical records indicate that marshmallow was used in Greco-Roman medicine and throughout medieval Europe for various inflammatory conditions, including those affecting the lungs. In 19th-century herbal texts, marshmallow was recommended as part of remedies for pleurisy and other chest complaints. The rationale was based on its mucilage content, which can provide a protective coating and ease discomfort associated with coughing and inflammation.

Modern scientific studies on marshmallow have largely focused on its effects as a demulcent and anti-inflammatory agent. However, robust clinical trials specifically targeting pleurisy are lacking. Most of the support for its use in pleurisy remains anecdotal or based on traditional practice rather than high-quality evidence. Therefore, while marshmallow is traditionally used for pleurisy, scientific validation for this specific indication is limited.

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