Unusual Skin Care Ingredients: Marshmallow Root

This month we're spotlighting unusual skin care ingredients that can make your skin feel ah-mazing.

We've talked about fungus for your face, sea algae for inflammation...and next up: a wonderful herb that heals you inside and out!

What is marshmallow root?

Marshmallow is perennial flowering plant that's a historically important herb used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Arabs as a food and medicine.

With its sweet taste, it was a much beloved dessert for ancient Egyptians and still a favorite treat around today's campfires. In medicine, marshmallow root and leaf have been used for at least 2,000 years to soothe digestion and urinary tracts, while providing external relief for minor wounds.

How does marshmallow root work?

Although it's been around forever, marshmallow is unique for its mucilaginous properties.  According to HerbWisdom.com:

"Marshmallow works as a mucilage, producing a thick sticky substance that coats membranes. Marshmallow extract contains flavanoids, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. The flavanoids are able to reduce inflammation while the mucilage holds them in place and prevents further damage."

This makes it great for easing sore throats, dry coughs, indigestion, respiratory disorders, stomach ulcers and relieving skin conditions like eczema and contact dermatitis.

I'm breastfeeding -- can marshmallow root used as a cracked nipple remedy ?

With its anti-inflammatory properties, marshmallow root is a natural skin soother that helps wounds heal. That's why we infuse it into our "Fix that Sucker Nipstick" balm, which helps new nursing mothers deal with sore, cracked (or even bleeding!) nipples.

Combined with nurturing plantain and calendula, the sore nipple cream is lanolin-free and 100% safe for baby to ingest. With its slippage, marshmallow root helps the nipple butter melt upon contact and provides Mama quick relief.

The best part? Marshmallow root helps make this the ultimate natural "boo-boo stick"! Use it to relieve minor wounds, eczema and bug bites for the whole family.

Have you taken marshmallow root medicinally, or used it in your skin care recipes? Share your results below!