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

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): 1

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its soothing, demulcent properties, particularly in treating mucous membrane irritation and inflammatory skin conditions. In the context of psoriasis, there is historical use of marshmallow root preparations as topical applications intended to calm irritated or inflamed skin. The mucilage content in marshmallow can form a protective layer over the skin, which is believed to reduce irritation and promote healing. However, while this traditional use is documented, there is a lack of robust scientific studies specifically investigating marshmallow’s efficacy in treating psoriasis. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or based on its general anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties observed in other conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. No clinical trials or systematic research have directly evaluated marshmallow for psoriasis, and its use in this context is not supported by dermatological guidelines. Therefore, while marshmallow's historical reputation for soothing skin may have prompted its inclusion in some traditional remedies for psoriasis, scientific validation is currently lacking.

More about marshmallow
More about Psoriasis