Evidence supporting the use of: Marshmallow
For the health condition: Sinus Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly for soothing mucous membranes. Its primary historical application relates to coughs, sore throats, and other respiratory complaints. The mucilage content in marshmallow root is believed to coat irritated tissues and potentially reduce inflammation, which explains its inclusion in remedies for upper respiratory tract discomfort. However, with regard to sinus infection (sinusitis) specifically, the evidence is largely anecdotal and based on traditional use rather than robust scientific validation. There are no high-quality clinical trials directly supporting its efficacy for treating sinus infections, nor is it widely cited in modern clinical guidelines for this purpose. Instead, its traditional use for respiratory issues may have been generalized to sinusitis by association. Some herbalists may recommend marshmallow as part of broader sinus infection protocols, mainly for symptomatic relief rather than as an antimicrobial or curative agent. In summary, while marshmallow root has traditional roots in respiratory health, its use for sinus infections is supported by weak evidence, primarily centered on its soothing properties and not on strong scientific data.

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