Marshmallow root is valued for its soothing and protecting mucilage and is used in teas, syrups, poultices, ointments and lozenges. For tea: add 1-2 teaspoons of marshmallow root to 8 oz. water in a pot. Cover and simmer for 15-30 minutes, strain and serve immediately.

The ooey, gooey campfire treat we enjoy today were originally created from the Althea officinalis plant? Historically, this plant was considered a delicacy among the Romans. The Chinese were also known to use this plant medicinally, and Prosper Alpinus in 1592 said that the Egyptians were known to have eaten marshmallow root as well. The French made a decadent confection in the 1800's with marshmallow, sugar, gelatin, and eggs. This confection gradually turned into what we know it as today.