Raw marshmallow. Marshmallow root: medicinal properties and contraindications. Althaea officinalis L

MINISTRY OF HEALTH OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

PHARMACOPOEIAL ARTICLE

Althea roots FS.2.5.0001.15

Althaeae radicesIn return for the Global FundXI, vol. 2, art. 64

Collected in autumn or spring, thoroughly cleaned of soil, dried lateral and non-lignified taproots, cleared of cork, of wild and cultivated perennial herbaceous plants Althaea officinalis L. and Armenian marshmallow - Althaea armeniaca Ten., fam. Malvaceae – Malvaceae.

AUTHENTICITY

External signs

Whole raw materials. Roots, almost cylindrical in shape or split lengthwise into 2–4 parts, slightly tapering towards the end, 10–35 cm long and up to 2 cm thick, cleared of cork. The surface of the roots is longitudinally grooved with exfoliating long, soft bast fibers and dark spots - traces of fallen or cut off thin roots. The fracture is granular-rough in the center and fibrous on the outside. The color of the root outside and at the fracture is white, yellowish-white (marshmallow) or grayish (Armenian marshmallow). The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Crushed raw materials. When examining crushed raw materials under a magnifying glass (10%u0D7) or a stereomicroscope (16%u0D7), pieces of roots of various shapes are visible passing through a sieve with 7 mm holes. The color is white, yellowish-white or grayish-white. The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Powder. When examining the powder under a magnifying glass (10%u0D7) or a stereomicroscope (16%u0D7), a mixture of white, yellowish-white or grayish particles is visible passing through a sieve with holes of 0.2 mm. The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Microscopic signs

Whole raw materials. The root has a secondary structure. In most cases, purified raw materials do not have a cork. The integumentary part consists of parenchyma cells with thin walls. The parenchyma cells are filled with starch grains, and in some places there are small drusen of calcium oxalate. The cambium line is narrow and clearly defined. The vessels are spiral with simple and bordered pores. The wood consists of thin-walled parenchyma cells, large vessels lying singly or in small groups, and small groups of bast fibers with slightly thickened, non-lignified walls, located in intermittent concentric belts, with pointed, less often forked, branched ends. The core rays are single-, rarely double-rowed. In the parenchyma, numerous large cells with mucus should be visible, located both in the bark and in the wood. Starch grains are simple, round or oval, rarely 2–5 syllables.

Crushed raw materials. When examining a crushed micropreparation under a microscope, fragments of parenchyma with drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of parenchyma with starch grains, fragments of parenchyma with cells with mucus, groups of bast fibers with slightly thickened non-lignified walls with pointed, less often forked-branched ends, fragments of reticular and scalariform vessels should be visible. . Starch grains are simple, round or oval, rarely 2–5 syllables. Fragments of the plug may be visible in the microslide.

Powder. Under a microscope, fragments of parenchyma with drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of parenchyma with starch grains of round or oval shape, fragments of fibers with slightly thickened non-lignified walls, their fork-shaped branched ends, fragments of reticular and scalariform vessels should be visible. Individual drusen and starch grains are found. Cork fragments may occur.

Drawing – Althea roots.

1 – cross section of the root: a – group of bast fibers, b – cabmium,

c – medullary ray, d – vessels (200%u0D7), 2 – parenchyma cells with partially gelatinized starch grains (a) and calcium oxalate drusen (b), large mucus cells (c) (200%u0D7), 3 – scalene ( a) and mesh (b) vessels (200%u0D7)

Determination of the main groups of biologically active substances

When a broken root or root powder is wetted with ammonia with a 10% solution or sodium hydroxide with a 10% solution, a yellow color (mucilage) appears.
When applying 2–3 drops of iodine solution to a root fracture or root powder, a blue color (starch) should be observed.

TESTS

Humidity

Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials, powder – no more than 14%.

Total ash

Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials, powder – no more than 8%.

Ash, insoluble in hydrochloric acid

Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials, powder – no more than 0.5%.

Raw material grinding

Whole raw materials: particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 3 mm - no more than 5%. Crushed raw materials: particles that do not pass through a sieve with holes of 7 mm - no more than 5% of particles passing through a sieve with holes of 0.5 mm - no more than 5%. Powder: particles that do not pass through a sieve with holes measuring 2 mm - no more than 5% of particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 0.18 mm - no more than 5%.

Foreign matter

Woody roots. Whole raw materials – no more than 3%.

Roots that are poorly corked. Whole raw materials – no more than 3%.

Organic impurity. Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials – no more than 0.5%.

Mineral impurity. Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials, powder – no more than 0.5%.

Heavy metals

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Determination of the content of heavy metals and arsenic in medicinal plant materials and medicinal herbal preparations.”

Radionuclides

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Determination of radionuclide content in medicinal plant materials and medicinal herbal preparations.”

Pesticide residues

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Determination of the content of residual pesticides in medicinal plant materials and medicinal herbal preparations.”

Microbiological purity

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Microbiological purity”.

quantitation

Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials, powder: extractive substances extracted with water - at least 15%.

The determination of extractive substances extracted by water is carried out in accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Determination of the content of extractive substances in medicinal plant raw materials and medicinal herbal preparations” (cold infusion method according to the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Infusions and decoctions”).

Packaging, labeling and transportation

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Packaging, labeling and transportation of medicinal herbal raw materials and medicinal herbal preparations.”

Storage

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Storage of medicinal plant raw materials and medicinal herbal preparations”.

Download in PDF FS.2.5.0001.15 Althea roots

Althaea officinalis: beneficial properties, contraindications. Composition, photo

The Malvaceae family (Malvaceae) includes twelve representatives of the genus Althea, but only two of them are used for the manufacture of medicinal products - Althaea armeniaca Ten. and, most often, Althaea officinalis(Althaea officinalis L.). The period of use of this plant goes back hundreds of years; its medicinal properties were known in ancient times. Modern medicine still successfully uses preparations from marshmallow root, which are popular due to their effectiveness and safety of use.

Marshmallow (mallow, marshmallow, dog's mug) is a perennial plant (with a large number of beneficial properties), with one or more erect stems, branching at the top, up to one and a half meters high. The rhizome is short with many thick fleshy roots. The leaves are grayish-green, slightly pubescent above, more pubescent below. Arranged alternately, ovoid-pointed, oblong, three- and five-lobed, serrated along the edges. The lower leaves are broadly wedge-shaped at their base, the middle ones are slightly rounded, the upper ones are sometimes heart-shaped.

Large five-membered flowers with obovate pale pink petals are collected in a spike-shaped inflorescence, which is located in the apical part of the stem. The fruit splits into several single-seeded kidney-shaped fruitlets of a dark brown color. Marshmallow blooms from June to September, the seeds ripen in September or October.

The marshmallow grows in the forests and forest-steppes of the European part of Russia, and was found in the steppe regions of Kazakhstan, as well as in Western Siberia. It grows best along the banks of small lakes, in thickets of bushes, in floodplains, and in wet meadows. Cultivated to obtain medicinal plant materials.

Collection and preparation of medicinal marshmallow

The raw materials of marshmallow are herbs and roots. Roots at the age of two to three years are harvested in September or October, when the above-ground part of the plant dies, or in the spring, when its growth has not begun. The dug roots are carefully cleaned from the soil, the rhizomes and the coarsened part of the main root are removed. After drying for two to three days in the air, remove the cork. After this, thick roots are cut into several longitudinal parts, long ones - crosswise into parts up to 30 cm long.

If you need to obtain raw materials that have not been cleared of cork, the prepared marshmallow roots are quickly washed under running cold water. They should not be soaked under any circumstances, since the mucus contained in the raw materials dissolves in water, which leads to their leaching from the raw materials and a decrease in its quality.

Marshmallow grass is harvested during the flowering period for thirty days from the beginning of flowering by mowing. Then the impurities of other plants and yellow marshmallow leaves are removed.

To preserve wild thickets of a medicinal plant, it is necessary to leave large specimens for the seeds to ripen, not to harvest young plants, and while digging marshmallows into the resulting holes, shake off the seeds from it.

The roots of marshmallow are dried in the sun or in automatic dryers at 50-60 degrees, or in the shade in rooms where good ventilation is provided. Grass - only in the shade or drying areas. Raw materials for drying must be spread out in a thin layer on special grids.

Due to hygroscopicity, prepared raw materials are stored in cool, dry rooms with good ventilation. The roots retain their medicinal properties for 3 years, the herb can be stored for 5 years.

Chemical composition

The main active ingredients of the raw material are polysaccharides: mucilage, which is contained in the roots up to 35%, sugar, starch, pectin substances. Also found in roots and grass are fatty oils, organic acids, mineral salts, tannins, and steroids. The grass contains carotenoids and flavonoids.

Useful properties of marshmallow

The therapeutic effect of marshmallow is due to the large amount of mucus it contains. Medicines obtained from the plant affect the following body systems:

Respiratory - marshmallow root is an antitussive. Preparations made from it can soothe severe coughs; marshmallow mucus promotes the regeneration of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Marshmallow polysaccharides inhibit the development of the cough reflex in tracheitis and laryngitis. The colloidal properties of marshmallow mucus facilitate expectoration and sputum discharge.
Digestive - the aqueous extract of the roots envelops the gastric mucosa. This promotes the healing of ulcers and erosive surfaces. Also, marshmallow mucus creates a protective shell for a long time, which protects the stomach from the irritating effects of food. In addition, plant mucus adsorbs and inactivates toxins formed as a result of the activity of pathogenic microorganisms.
Immune - a complex of polysaccharides increases the activity of phagocytes, stimulates humoral and cellular immunity.

Application in medicine

Herbal preparations obtained from marshmallow are used to treat respiratory diseases. The protective, expectorant, and, in a certain concentration, antitussive, enveloping, anti-inflammatory and softening effects of marshmallow allow it to be used for tracheitis, chronic bronchitis, laryngitis, whooping cough, bronchopneumonia, acute respiratory infections, and bronchial asthma. It should be noted that the use of marshmallow preparations for bronchial asthma is effective only in combination with bronchospasmolytics, for example, theophedrine.

The benefits of marshmallow for the gastrointestinal tract. In gastroenterology, marshmallow is used to treat gastritis and gastric ulcers. The mucus of marshmallow root promotes a longer effect of other anti-inflammatory drugs on the gastric mucosa, slowing down their evacuation, which prolongs the therapeutic effect. The higher the acidity of gastric juice, the higher the effectiveness of marshmallow mucus.

In addition to internal use, a mucous infusion of the roots is used in the form of enemas for dysentery and diarrhea of ​​various etiologies.

Marshmallow tincture and extract are used orally to treat eczema and psoriasis. Patients experience a transition from a progressive stage of the disease to a regressive stage, and the intensity of the rash decreases. In addition, patients note an improvement in appetite, sleep, and general condition.

The following preparations are obtained from marshmallow raw materials:

Dry crushed marshmallow root - used to prepare decoctions. The decoction is prescribed as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent for bronchitis, laryngitis, bronchopneumonia, and tracheitis.
Marshmallow root syrup - improves the formation of sputum, normalizes its viscosity and elasticity, stimulates the peristalsis of bronchioles, promoting better discharge of sputum. Reduces the secretion of gastric juice, coats the gastric mucosa, relieves inflammation. It is used for diseases of the respiratory system and inflammatory phenomena in the gastrointestinal tract.
Various herbal mixtures: Bronchial, Bronchofit, Gastrosan, Gastrofit, Chest collection N1 - they are used for diseases of the respiratory system, respiratory infections, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Mucaltin - tablets obtained from the marshmallow herb. They are used in the complex treatment of bronchitis, both acute and chronic pneumonia, and tracheitis.
Dry cough medicine is a powder for dilution with water, which contains marshmallow root extract, licorice root extract, sodium benzoate and sodium bicarbonate, anise oil, ammonium chloride. It is used in pediatrics as an antitussive, anti-inflammatory, and sputum reliever.

Contraindications and side effects

No pronounced toxic effects on the body have been identified in marshmallow preparations. Individual intolerance may occur in the form of allergic skin reactions, and in case of overdose - nausea and vomiting. In case of allergies, it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug; in case of nausea and vomiting, the stomach is washed out and the drug is completely discontinued.

The use of marshmallow in folk medicine

Folk recipes for the use of marshmallow have come down from past centuries. People use not only grass and plant roots, but also flowers with seeds. A decoction of flowers is used for hemorrhoids, scrofula, and to treat wounds. Crushed leaves are applied to tumors and abscesses.

Tincture of marshmallow seeds is used to treat diseases of the urinary system and stomach pain. The roots, ground with honey, are used as a compress for inflammation of the mammary glands in nursing women. Of course, traditional medicine places first place on the use of marshmallow as an anti-inflammatory and expectorant for respiratory diseases.

Application in other industries

A large amount of mucus in the raw material, as well as the presence of amino acids, various vitamins and tannins, make the use of marshmallow promising in the production of cosmetics. When caring for skin and hair, the softening and protective properties of marshmallow, as well as its ability to retain water in the epidermis layer, are very valuable.

In the pharmaceutical industry, in the production of pills, marshmallow root powder is used as an adhesive, and it is used as a filler to make powders.

Ground marshmallow roots are used as an additive to flour when baking bread; porridges and jelly are prepared from them.

In some countries, ropes and coarse fiber paper are made from marshmallow stems.

Growing

Althaea officinalis grows well in light, moist soils. Before sowing, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water at room temperature for 24 hours. Sowing is done in early spring to a depth of about two centimeters, leaving a distance of 55-60 cm between the rows. After the seeds germinate, ten plants are left per square meter. Marshmallow also reproduces by dividing rhizomes. Young plants need to be protected from weeds, loosened and moistened in time.

Photo of marshmallow

medicinal plant: marshmallow

Historical facts

Many documentary evidence has been found of the use of marshmallow by healers of Ancient Greece; in those days the plant was called “the herb for all diseases.” Thanks to its widespread distribution, marshmallow was considered the “friend of the poor” and was widely used in the treatment of various ailments.

In the Middle Ages, many recipes were invented based on the root, herb and flowers of marshmallow to treat diseases such as dandruff, cough, ulcers and boils on the body, swelling, and baldness. Marshmallow was used to ease childbirth, and for snake and bee bites.

In the Russian Empire, doctors used the experience of medieval healers, also using marshmallow to treat various diseases. It was especially popular in military medicine; marshmallow ointment was in great demand. Since 1778, marshmallow root has been included in all Russian pharmacopoeias.

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571. Radix Althaeae

571. Radix Althaeae

Marshmallow root

Collected in autumn or spring, washed, cleared of the cork layer and dried lateral roots of the wild and cultivated perennial herbaceous plant marshmallow - Althaea officinalis L. and Armenian marshmallow - Althaea armeniaca Ten., fam. Malvaceae - Malvaceae.

External signs. Pieces of almost cylindrical shape or split lengthwise into 2-4 parts, slightly tapering towards the end, up to 35 cm long and usually 0.5-1.5 (2) cm thick. The surface of the root is longitudinally grooved with exfoliating long, soft bast fibers and dark dots are traces of fallen or cut off thin branches of roots. The color of the root outside and at the fracture is white, yellowish-white (marshmallow) or grayish (Armenian marshmallow). The fracture is granular-rough in the center and fibrous on the outside. When broken, it produces dust (starch); when wetted with water, it becomes slimy. The smell is weak, the taste is peculiar, sweetish, mucous.

Under a magnifying glass. A cross-section shows a tuftless structure: a light brown ring of cambium separates the vaguely radiate wood from the bark.

Cut raw materials. Pieces of various shapes ranging in size from 3 to 8 mm.

Microscopy. The cross section shows the predominance of thin-walled parenchyma tissue characteristic of the root. The bark contains numerous tangentially elongated groups of bast fibers, arranged in intermittent concentric belts. Smaller groups of fibers are scattered throughout the wood. Fibers 10-35 microns thick with slightly thickened, non-lignified or slightly lignified walls and a large gap. Vessels and tracheids are located in small groups. The core rays are single-, rarely double-rowed. In the parenchyma, numerous large cells with mucus are visible, located both in the bark and in the wood. The mucus dissolves in water, the cells become colorless and appear empty. A solution of methylene blue stains cells with mucus blue. To carry out double staining, the section is placed in a solution of ferric chloride for 20 minutes, the solution is removed with filter paper, an alcohol solution of methylene blue is added and washed with water. Mucous cells are painted yellow, fibers are painted blue, blood vessels are painted green, parenchyma cells remain colorless.

The parenchyma cells are filled with starch grains, and in some places there are small drusen of calcium oxalate.

A white, yellowish-white or grayish powder passing through a 0.315 mm sieve. Under the microscope, fragments of parenchyma with starch are visible, individual starch grains of round, oval or ovoid shape, ranging in size from 3 to 27 microns, drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of vessels, fragments of fibers, often with fork-shaped branched endings. Mucus is detected when examining the mascara.

Qualitative reactions. When a cut or root powder is wetted with an iodine solution, a blue color (starch) immediately appears; when wetted with a solution of ammonia or caustic soda, a yellow color appears. A 10% infusion of the root, prepared in cold water, turns lemon-yellow when adding ammonia or caustic soda solution. When concentrated hydrochloric acid (1:3) is added to the infusion, a yellowish-green color appears. When 95% alcohol (1.1) is added to the infusion, the mucus coagulates into flaky clots that precipitate when standing.

Purity test. The mucus obtained by infusing 1 g of marshmallow root with 10 ml of water should have only a slightly yellow color and a neutral reaction to litmus and should not have a moldy odor.

Numerical indicators. Moisture no more than 14% total ash no more than 7% for marshmallow and no more than 8% for Armenian marshmallow, including ash insoluble in 10% hydrochloric acid, no more than 0.5% woody roots no more than 3% marshmallow roots , poorly cleaned from cork, no more than 3% organic impurity, no more than 0.5% mineral impurity, no more than 0.5%. For cut raw materials: particles larger than 8 mm, no more than 10% of crushed particles passing through a sieve with a hole diameter of 2 mm, no more than 15%, including particles passing through a sieve with a hole diameter of 1 mm, no more than 3%. For powder: particles that do not pass through a sieve with a hole size of 0.315 mm, no more than 1%.

Storage. In pharmacies - in boxes in warehouses - in bags. The powder in pharmacies is stored in glass jars in warehouses - in multilayer paper bags placed in fabric bags. The root is hygroscopic and easily dampened.

Althaea officinalis Armenian marshmallow Pharmacognosy wild rosemary

MINISTRY OF HEALTH OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

PHARMACOPOEIAL ARTICLE

Althea roots FS.2.5.0001.15

Althaeae radices In return for the Global FundXI, vol. 2, art. 64

Collected in autumn or spring, thoroughly cleared of soil, dried lateral and non-lignified taproots of wild and cultivated perennial herbaceous plants marshmallow officinalis, cleared of cork - Althaea officinalis L. and Armenian marshmallow – Althaea armeniaca Ten., sem. Malvaceae – Malvaceae.

AUTHENTICITY

External signs

Whole raw materials. Roots, almost cylindrical in shape or split lengthwise into 2–4 parts, slightly tapering towards the end, 10–35 cm long and up to 2 cm thick, cleared of cork. The surface of the roots is longitudinally grooved with exfoliating long, soft bast fibers and dark spots - traces of fallen or cut off thin roots. The fracture is granular-rough in the center and fibrous on the outside. The color of the root outside and at the fracture is white, yellowish-white (marshmallow) or grayish (Armenian marshmallow). The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Crushed raw materials. When examining crushed raw materials under a magnifying glass (10×) or a stereo microscope (16×), pieces of roots of various shapes are visible passing through a sieve with 7 mm holes. The color is white, yellowish-white or grayish-white. The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Powder. When examining the powder under a magnifying glass (10×) or a stereo microscope (16×), a mixture of white, yellowish-white or grayish particles is visible passing through a 0.2 mm sieve. The smell is weak and peculiar. The taste of the aqueous extract is sweetish with a mucous sensation.

Microscopic signs

Whole raw materials. The root has a secondary structure. In most cases, purified raw materials do not have a cork. The integumentary part consists of parenchyma cells with thin walls. The parenchyma cells are filled with starch grains, and in some places there are small drusen of calcium oxalate. The cambium line is narrow and clearly defined. The vessels are spiral with simple and bordered pores. The wood consists of thin-walled parenchyma cells, large vessels lying singly or in small groups, and small groups of bast fibers with slightly thickened, non-lignified walls, located in intermittent concentric belts, with pointed, less often forked, branched ends. The core rays are single-, rarely double-rowed. In the parenchyma, numerous large cells with mucus should be visible, located both in the bark and in the wood. Starch grains are simple, round or oval, rarely 2–5 syllables.

Crushed raw materials. When examining a crushed micropreparation under a microscope, fragments of parenchyma with drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of parenchyma with starch grains, fragments of parenchyma with cells with mucus, groups of bast fibers with slightly thickened non-lignified walls with pointed, less often forked-branched ends, fragments of reticular and scalariform vessels should be visible. . Starch grains are simple, round or oval, rarely 2–5 syllables. Fragments of the plug may be visible in the microslide.

Powder. Under a microscope, fragments of parenchyma with drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of parenchyma with starch grains of round or oval shape, fragments of fibers with slightly thickened non-lignified walls, their fork-shaped branched ends, fragments of reticular and scalariform vessels should be visible. Individual drusen and starch grains are found. Cork fragments may occur.

Drawing – Althea roots.

1 – cross section of the root: a – group of bast fibers, b – cabmium,
c – medullary ray, d – vessels (200×), 2 – parenchyma cells with partially gelatinized starch grains (a) and calcium oxalate drusen (b), large mucus cells (c) (200×), 3 – scalene cells (a) and mesh (b) vessels (200×)

Determination of the main groups of biologically active substances

1. When a broken root or root powder is wetted with ammonia with a 10% solution or sodium hydroxide with a 10% solution, a yellow color (mucilage) appears.
2. When applying 2–3 drops of iodine solution to a root fracture or root powder, a blue color (starch) should be observed.

TESTS

Humidity

Whole raw materials crushed raw materials, powder– no more than 14%.

Total ash

Whole raw materials crushed raw materials, powder– no more than 8%.

Ash, insoluble in hydrochloric acid

Whole raw materials crushed raw materials, powder– no more than 0.5%.

Raw material grinding

Whole raw materials: particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 3 mm - no more than 5%. Crushed raw materials: particles that do not pass through a sieve with holes measuring 7 mm - no more than 5%; particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 0.5 mm - no more than 5%. Powder: particles that do not pass through a sieve with holes measuring 2 mm - no more than 5%; particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 0.18 mm - no more than 5%.

Foreign matter

Woody roots . Whole raw materials– no more than 3%.

Roots that are poorly corked . Whole raw materials– no more than 3%.

Organic impurity . Whole raw materials, crushed raw materials– no more than 0.5%.

Mineral impurity . Whole raw materials crushed raw materials, powder– no more than 0.5%.

Heavy metals

Radionuclides

In accordance with the requirements of the General Pharmacopoeia Monograph “Determination of radionuclide content in medicinal plant materials and medicinal herbal preparations.”

Pesticide residues

According to requirements.

Microbiological purity

According to requirements.

quantitation

Whole raw materials crushed raw materials, powder: extractive substances extracted with water – at least 15%.

Determination of extractives extracted with water is carried out in accordance with the requirements (cold infusion method according to).

Packaging, labeling and transportation

According to requirements.

Althaea is a medicinal plant, the beneficial properties of which were discovered back in the last century. The grass and flowers of the crop were used for creating cough medicines. Today, marshmallow is used in the manufacture of medicines that can be found in any pharmacy.

The medicinal herb is also called marshmallow and mallow. Tinctures and syrups from the plant have a beneficial effect on the human condition. Thanks to the vitamins and beneficial elements contained in flowers, herbs and roots, marshmallow has an anti-inflammatory, strengthening, tonic and wound-healing effect.

Description of medicinal herb

Althaea officinalis is a perennial plant reaching a height of 1.5−2 m. Young shrubs are characterized by the presence of one stem, and older specimens may have 8−10 shoots. New branches pointing upward grow from the main thick stem.

The soft leaves with velvety edges are triangular in shape. They are located on the shoots alternately. Young leaves have a silvery tint, while old leaf blades have a rich green color. A large number of velvety needles cover the new leaves. The silvery fluffiness leaves the leaves over time, which become green in color. The leaf blades are distinguished by irregular denticles.

Flowers are collected in bunches on common short peduncles. The double calyx has 5 leaves, and the subcups of the outer sepals have 8-12. The corolla consists of 5 white or pink petals. The fruits are flat and resemble small discs. Marshmallow begins to bloom in early June, and numerous seeds ripen by September.

Under natural conditions, the plant grows in Russia, Ukraine and the North Caucasus. Althaea is found in Central Asia and some European countries. You can find it among thickets of bushes, in meadows, near rivers, lakes and other bodies of water.

The culture is used not only for medicinal purposes. Althaea is widely used in the food industry. The leaves, peeled from the calyxes, are stewed, boiled or consumed fresh, adding it to salads. Boiled roots complement side dishes and vegetable dishes.

Procurement of raw materials

It is not easy to find marshmallow in the natural environment, but ready-made raw materials can be purchased at any pharmacy. Some summer residents prefer to grow medicinal herbs on their own plots.

The plant has well developed root system. The complex rhizome includes a woody stem and many fleshy shoots, which are used to make medicinal raw materials. Leaves and flowers are also harvested.

The crop is difficult to remove from the soil manually, so you will need a shovel for the job. Using the tool, cut out a square with a perimeter of 20x20 cm and a depth of a shovel bayonet. The lump of earth with the plant is turned out, the rhizome is cleared of the substrate. The top part of the bush is cut off, and the roots are washed and cut into pieces.

Preparation of different parts of marshmallow:

Specimens that have reached two years of age should be stocked. Glass or metal containers are selected for medicinal raw materials. It is necessary to store marshmallow root in a dark and dry room. With increased humidity, the properties of the plant deteriorate. If mold appears on the surface of the material, then it is thrown away. The shelf life of the product does not exceed 3 years.

Plant composition

The medicinal properties and contraindications of marshmallow root have been studied based on the composition of the plant. Nutrients have a beneficial effect on the human body and help in the treatment of many diseases.

Included marshmallow root presence noted:

A large amount of mucus and starch is found in the rhizome of the plant. It is the marshmallow root that is of great benefit to the human body. The leaves are rich in essential oil and vitamin C. The flowers contain solid essential oil. A high content of fatty oil in marshmallow seeds has been noted.

Beneficial features

Althaea officinalis has been used since ancient times. The rich chemical composition makes the plant effective for many diseases. Plant mucus has an enveloping effect and stays on damaged tissues for a long time, preventing them from becoming irritated. The rhizome of marshmallow is most often used for medicinal purposes.

Beneficial features marshmallow root:

Scientists have noted the beneficial properties of marshmallow for weight loss. Proper use of the product will help you lose extra pounds and make your figure attractive.

Syrup, infusion, and decoctions are prepared from mallow. Ready-made medications can be purchased at any pharmacy. Some people prefer to make healing potions at home.

Contraindications for use

Medicinal herbs can cause side effects, so you should carefully read the instructions before using the product. Adults and children should take the medicine in the indicated dosages. Children under 1 year of age can be treated with marshmallow root only under the strict supervision of a doctor.

Contraindications for use marshmallow root:

• Serious impairment of the respiratory function of the lungs;
• Diabetes;
• Constipation;
• Early pregnancy;
• Individual intolerance.

You should not take drugs with marshmallow components in combination with codeine and other drugs that suppress the cough reflex. An overdose of the medicine may cause nausea and vomiting. In this situation, it is necessary to perform gastric lavage and stop using marshmallow.

Application for children

Alteika, a mixture with marshmallow for children, is used as a secretolytic that stimulates the function of the respiratory tract. The medicine can be combined with other drugs if they are allowed according to the instructions. Marshmallow-based syrup is sold without prescriptions, but experts recommend purchasing the product only after examination by a doctor to avoid side effects.

As stated above, Medicine should not be given to infants, unless the pediatrician prescribes it. For children under 6 years of age, the mixture will help cope with cough if they take half a teaspoon of the product 3-4 times a day. For children from 6 to 12 years old, the dosage is increased to 1 teaspoon 4-5 times a day. Teenagers and adults need to consume 1 tablespoon of syrup 4-5 times a day. The mixture should be diluted in clean water in the proportions of 1 teaspoon per 50 ml of liquid. The course of treatment is 2 weeks.

Cough syrup with marshmallow root is a natural herbal remedy that can be used to safely treat children. Reviews about this drug are usually positive.

Healthy recipes

Using the marshmallow rhizome, useful tinctures are prepared that relieve the body of various diseases. The necessary ingredients can be found at a pharmacy or store.

Recipes for products with marshmallow:

Marshmallow is often included in herbal preparations intended to treat colds and diseases of the stomach and intestines. Syrup made from herbal ingredients can be used not only by adults, but also by children. By following the instructions for using marshmallow, you can quickly restore immunity and overall health.

In autumn and spring I often get sick, especially with a wet cough. I always bought pharmaceutical pills, which didn’t help much. A friend recommended cough syrup based on marshmallow rhizome. Excellent product, pleasant to taste. The cough and minor sore throat went away quickly. I read on the Internet about the properties of this plant, and now I use it not only for coughs, but also during exacerbations of gastritis. The pain goes away at the very beginning of using the drug.

My daughter often has inflamed tonsils, which can only be cured with a decoction of marshmallow flowers. The infusion is prepared from 1 tablespoon of flowers and 100 ml of water. The contents must be brought to a boil and then cooled. I strain the flowers, add a teaspoon of liquid honey to the infusion and stir the ingredients thoroughly. I give the consistency that has cooled to room temperature to the child for rinsing. My daughter’s pain and inflammation go away quickly.

I always prepare tinctures and decoctions with marshmallow root when someone in the family is sick. My son is 7 years old, I don’t want to experiment with pharmaceutical chemistry. Best for children natural remedies. You can buy ready-made syrup at the pharmacy or make it yourself.

Althaea officinalis
Taxon: Malvaceae family ( Malvaceae)
Folk names: mallow, marshmallow, kalachiki, wild rose
English: Marsh Mallow, Marshmallow

Botanical description of marshmallow

It is a perennial densely pubescent plant due to the presence of star-shaped branched hairs, has one or several stems and a strong branched short rhizome with rather thick, long fleshy roots. Marshmallow stems are mostly erect, simple, sometimes branched in the upper part, ranging from 50 to 150 cm in height. The leaves are alternate, depending on their placement on the stem, they have a different shape of the leaf blade. The upper leaves are petiolate, ovate, pointed, irregularly tubular-toothed along the edges, from 5 to 14.5 cm long, 3–12 cm wide, ovate-oblong, 3-lobed with an elongated middle blade, and broadly wedge-shaped at the base; the middle leaves are slightly rounded or almost flat at the base; the lower leaves are larger and wider than the others, 3–5 cm long, lobed, sometimes heart-shaped at the base. All marshmallow leaves are grayish-green in color and covered with velvety pubescence. Marshmallow flowers are small, on short, 2–8 mm long, stalks, crowded at the top of the stem and placed on common peduncles, 2–6 cm long, emerging from the axils of the upper leaves, with a subcup characteristic of plants of the mallow family; the subchases are 8–9 divided, the sepals are broadly ovate, 6–7 mm long, pointed. The corolla is pale pink, not very open; petals are broadly ovate, deeply notched at the apex, narrowed near the base, 11–25 mm long, 10–14 mm wide. The fruits of Marshmallow are small, dry, arranged in a ring, wrapped in a cup, covered with short hairs. The fruits are flat, disc-like, up to 7–8 mm in diameter, and when ripe, when opened, they fall apart into 15–20 individual densely pubescent seeds. The plant blooms in summer from July to August, the fruits ripen in August - September.

Geographical distribution

Althaea officinalis has an uneven Eurasian distribution area. It grows throughout almost all of Europe, with the exception of the northern regions of the Scandinavian countries and Scotland. It is also found in North Africa, Iran, Afghanistan, Asia Minor and northwestern China and Mongolia. Widely distributed throughout the European part of Russia, reaching the North Caucasus, the plant is also found in the south of Western Siberia, in Kazakhstan, in the lowlands of Altai, in individual desert oases and in non-desert regions of Central Asian countries. As a weed, marshmallow is introduced to North America.
In the wild, it is distributed throughout Ukraine, found in the steppe and forest-steppe zones, from the Carpathian forests to Polesie and Slobozhanshchina. It grows mainly in wet meadows, along river banks, in swampy meadows, in ravines, between sparse bushes and in saline areas.

Cultivation of marshmallow

Natural reserves of marshmallow raw materials are limited and insufficient for wide industrial procurement. Considering this fact, marshmallow has been introduced into culture quite a long time ago.
In culture, marshmallow propagates exclusively by seeds, however, during storage, after the first year of growing season, the seeds have weak germination energy and a relatively low percentage of germination. On the fourth or fifth day in laboratory conditions, the germination percentage reaches 70%, and on the seventh it drops sharply. In order to increase the efficiency of germination, agronomists recommend treating marshmallow seeds with a 0.07% gibberelin solution before sowing at the rate of 10–15 liters of solution per 100 kg of seeds with an optimal exposure of 24 hours (S. S. Shain et al., 1977).
For plantation cultivation of marshmallows, the seed method is mainly used. For sowing, one- and two-year-old scarified seeds are used, which are sown in the spring in a wide row (at a distance of 60–70 cm) to a depth of 1–2 cm. The seed sowing rate is 6–10 kg/ha. The roots are collected in the fall of the second year of life or in the spring of the third year of growing season. Seeds are collected from plots of the second year of growing season after up to 50% of the fruits turn brown. The yield of dry roots from cultivated plants after the second year of vegetation is 10–20 c/ha, the yield of seeds is 3–5 c/ha.
Considering the importance of marshmallow as a raw material for the pharmaceutical industry, Bulgarian breeders have created a highly productive variety of marshmallow called “Rusalka”, which is widely grown in some farms in Bulgaria ( M. Koleva et al., 1986).

Medicinal raw materials

In medicine, in industrial pharmacy, crude marshmallow roots are most widely used as medicinal raw materials ( Radix Althaeae naturalis) and peeled marshmallow roots ( Radix Althaeae mundata).
The roots are harvested at the beginning of the growing season before the aerial parts grow (March - May), as well as in the fall, when the stems begin to dry out. The dug roots are cleared of soil and washed in cold water. Woody stems, the capitate part of the rhizome and the rough, woody main root are discarded. The roots, peeled and washed from soil, are slightly dried in the sun and cut into pieces up to 30 cm, and thick roots are cut lengthwise into 2–3 parts; To obtain cleaned roots, the gray surface layer is peeled off from them before drying. After this treatment, the roots are dried in the shade, spread out in a thin layer, on nets, stretched sheets, in the open air in attics and in well-ventilated rooms. In dryers, raw materials are dried at a temperature not exceeding 40°. At higher temperatures, the roots may acquire a yellowish color, which significantly impairs the quality and effectiveness of medicines. Dried roots should break, while under-dried roots bend rather than break. The raw material should have a whitish color. It should be noted that marshmallow roots are hygroscopic and at high air humidity they quickly become damp and moldy, and sometimes acquire a musty smell and sour taste. Therefore, dried marshmallow roots should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Since the supply of raw materials is depleted when harvesting roots, it is necessary to leave at least 2/3 of the roots for each square meter of plant growth to restore the plants and replenish the supply of raw materials in the future.
The roots of marshmallow are the official raw material in Russia, Ukraine and most European countries, as well as in the USA and Canada. As a complete substitute for marshmallow roots in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan, the roots are allowed for harvesting and use in pharmacy and medicine Armenian marshmallow Althaea armteniaca Tenore., which differs from marshmallow in that its middle leaves are more rounded or broadly ovate, more dissected, three- or five-lobed. In addition, the Armenian marshmallow leaves on both sides have denser, grayish woolly pubescence. The roots of Armenian marshmallow are very similar in appearance to the roots of marshmallow, differing from them in being more fibrous when scrapped.
In Russia, Ukraine and some European countries, in industrial pharmacy, in addition to marshmallow roots, dried marshmallow herb (Herba Althaeae) is used, which is harvested during flowering.
Sometimes inexperienced harvesters, instead of marshmallow roots, harvest the roots of other plants of the malvaceae family, in particular, wood mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) And Thuringian robes(Lavatera thuringiaca L.). It differs from the indicated species of marshmallow in the pale pink color of the corolla (bright pink in khama and pink with dark stripes in mallow). In addition, marshmallow differs from other species of plants of the marshmallow genus in the number of leaves in the cup (marshmallow has 8–12, and khama and mallow have 3 each), as well as the shape of the leaves (in mallow they are heart-shaped, rounded, five-, seven-lobed , in the khatma - triangular-five-lobed).
In addition to the above plants, other species of plants of the marshmallow genus also grow wild on the territory of Ukraine, in particular marshmallow - Althaea cannabina L., Marshmallow of Narbonne - Althaea narbonensis Pourr. And marshmallow woolly-hairy - Althaea hirsuta L. The listed species of plants of the genus mallow are similar in appearance to marshmallow, however, the medicinal raw materials from them are considered an admixture to the raw material of marshmallow and are not allowed to be harvested as medicinal raw materials, since these species have not been sufficiently studied, both pharmacologically and chemically, and At present, the regulatory and technical documentation for marshmallow roots and herbs does not recommend them for use in medicine and pharmacy as medicinal raw materials.

Biologically active substances marshmallow

In the phytochemical aspect, the polysaccharides of marshmallow roots are the most well studied, since these raw materials are typical medicinal plant raw materials containing mucus. Marshmallow mucilage is a metabolic substance formed in the root parenchyma at 7–8 weeks of plant life and performs protective functions, protecting the plant from both excessive drying and heavy moisture.
Chemically, marshmallow mucus is a heterogeneous polysaccharide, which is classified as a high-molecular carbohydrate with an acidic group. The first scientific report on the study of marshmallow mucus was made by A. V. Frank. In 1907 in the magazine Jahrb.Wiss. Bot. he reported the extraction of mucilage from the roots of plants of the Malvaseae family. In 1934 Jaretzky et Ulrich in the journal Arch. Farm. described a study of mucus in the roots of marshmallow. Over time, it was found that marshmallow roots contain from 30 to 35% mucilage, and leaves contain up to 15% of this polysaccharide. In 1912, Fredrich, after hydrolysis of marshmallow mucilage, identified monosaccharides in it - D-glucose and D-L-xylose. In 1946, Beauguesne discovered uronic acids, methylpentoses and hexoses in marshmallow mucus (Hlavaty et al, 1989).
Intensive physicochemical, chemical and chromatographic studies of marshmallow mucus, carried out in the 50s of the last century, confirmed that the polysaccharide fraction of the mucus includes residues of galactose, glucose arabinose, rhamnose and galacturonic acid ( M. E. Shterengarts, 1952).
In 1966, Franz proved that marshmallow mucus is a neutral polymer, structurally predominantly arabinoxylosoglucogalactan, containing 27% arabinose, 21% glucose, 32% galactose. These monosaccharides are linked by galacturonic acid residues (P. Hlavaty et al, 1989).
In 1971, G. Ya. Khait and G. V. Kulachek developed a colorimetric method for the quantitative determination of polysaccharide content in dry marshmallow mucus, which is based on hydrolysis of the mucus followed by staining with picric acid in an alkaline medium. The method was eventually included in the regulatory and technical documentation for “Dry marshmallow mucus” and for finished dosage forms created from marshmallow roots. Using the above method, it was found that dry mucus contains from 19.52 to 21.68% reducing polysaccharides in terms of glucose.
At the Botanical Institute of the Academy of Sciences of Bulgaria, under the leadership of S. Iliev, a pharmacognostic study of cultivated species of marshmallow was carried out with a study of the qualitative composition and quantitative content of polysaccharides. When extracting polysaccharides from marshmallow roots, the most optimal method is the extraction method with cold water, at a temperature not exceeding 4 ° C and at a ratio of raw material - extractant (water) of 5:100. In this case, mucus extraction must be carried out for 15 hours with frequent shaking or stirring of the raw materials. The developed extraction methods were eventually included in the Bulgarian regulatory and technical documentation for marshmallow root. In addition, the Bulgarian State Varietal Commission for Seed Growing, on the basis of phytochemical research on the study of mucilage, selected for cultivation the original variety of Marshmallow officinalis “Rusalka”, in the roots of which the content of polysaccharides reaches 25% in terms of dry raw materials ( Kh. Akhtardzhiev et al., 1984).

M. Sh. Mukhamedova and A. K. Galiev, 2004, when studying the polysaccharides of the roots of the marshmallow Althaea nudiflorae L., growing in some regions of Uzbekistan, found that the water-soluble fraction of polysaccharides is a polydisperse compound consisting mainly of linear β-1–4 glycopyranose chains, similar to the analogous glucose bonds found in starch.
Photocolorimetric studies have shown that the degree of esterification above the specified polysaccharide can reach up to 73%. After complete hydrolysis followed by the use of paper chromatography, monosaccharides such as rhamnose, glucose, galactose and galacturonic acid were identified in the polysaccharide obtained from the roots of the marshmallow. Using paper chromatography, it was revealed that the alcohol-soluble sugars of marshmallow are represented predominantly by glucose and maltose.
S. I. Khreschenyuk et al. (1972) while studying the process of extraction of polysaccharides from the grass and roots of marshmallow, established optimal technological parameters for extracting raw materials. The highest yield of polysaccharides is observed when grinding raw materials using the rolling method, which increases the total yield of polysaccharides by 7% compared to extraction of raw materials ground to a powder state.
In addition to mucus, marshmallow roots contain from 5 to 11% linear polysaccharide triticin and up to 78% invert sugars.
Polish pharmacologists determined that marshmallow roots contain tannins. It has been established that marshmallow roots, depending on the place of collection and methods, contain from 4.11 to 7.96% tannins, which significantly affect the pharmacological activity of medicines obtained from these raw materials ( F. W. Wieioszabska, I. K. Czucha, 1967).
In this regard, scientists believe that it is advisable to classify marshmallow roots as mucus polyphenol-containing raw materials.
Important from a phytochemical perspective are studies of the flavonoid composition of the marshmallow herb.
Polish researchers from the Department of Pharmacognosy of the Institute of Technology and Chemistry of Drugs of the Medical Academy of Lodz isolated 3 crystalline and chromatographically homogeneous flavonoid glycoside derivatives of 8-hydroxyluteolin from the leaves of marshmallow, which were given the name “hypoletins”. At the same time, 8-glucoside-8-hypoletin, or 8-β-genciobioside-8-hypoletin, obtained as an acetyl derivative, as well as a completely unidentified glycoside derivative of 8-β-genciobioside-8-oxyluteolin with an additional unidentified component in the sugar part.
Indian phytochemists found the flavanol herbacin, chemically herbancetin-8-glucoside, in bright yellow flowers collected from the Indian species of marshmallow (Lietava J., 1992).
Gudej J., Bierganowska M. L. (1990) using developed liquid chromatography methods, conducted a comparative determination of the quantitative content of flavonoids in flowers and leaves Althaea armeniaca Ten., Althaea cannabina L., Althaea narbonensis Pour., Althaea brousonettifolia Iljin. It was found that the quantitative content of flavonoids of these marshmallow species is close to their content in the leaves of marshmallow. Coumarins have also been identified in the marshmallow herb, among which scopoletin has been identified.
Marshmallow roots contain essential amino acids for the human body, in particular from 0.8 to 2% asparagine and up to 4% betaine.

History of medical use of marshmallow

Althaea officinalis has an ancient history of medicinal use. The healing properties of marshmallow root have been known since ancient times. It was mentioned in their philosophical and medical treatises by the ancient Greek thinkers Theophrastus, Galen, Dioscorides and Hippocrates. The ancient Greek thinker Hesiodos wrote that marshmallow in Ancient Greece was a popular plant among both the rich nobility and the poor. The ancient Greeks called marshmallow Herba omniborbium, which translated from Latin means “herb for all diseases.” Pliny mentioned that the ancient Greeks and Romans used this medicinal plant to treat wounds caused by sharp objects, and considered marshmallow a friend of the poor. Since marshmallow grew near populated areas, was non-toxic and did not taste bitter, sour or pungent, almost all diseases were treated with decoctions of its root and mucus.
In the Middle Ages, the healing properties of marshmallow were described in their treatises by such naturalists as Albertus Magnus (1193–1282), Paracelsus (1493–1541), Matioli (1500–1577), Adam Lonitseri (1527–1587), Simon of Siren (1541–1611). ).
The medieval Arab scientist Avicenna (979–1037) highly valued marshmallow. He wrote that marshmallow is an emollient medicine that causes ripening, relaxation and resorption of phlegm, and the seeds and roots have a stronger effect than the grass. The Arab scientist believed that marshmallow softens hard edema and prevents its formation, resolves blood clots, predetermines the maturation of abscesses and helps with edema, including mumps. Marshmallow also has the property of soothing joint pain, especially when mixed with goose fat, and is useful for inflammation of the sciatic nerve, trembling limbs, muscle tears and nervous tension. The Canon has this advice: an ointment made from marshmallow root powder, mixed and ground with vinegar and wine, helps against snake and bee bites.
The medieval Armenian philosopher and physician Amirdovlat Amasiatsi (1430–1496), in his fundamental work “Unnecessary for the Ignorant,” written in 1478–1482, gave many recipes for medicines from marshmallow used to treat various diseases. For example, a decoction of marshmallow root and the disappearance of dandruff; A poultice of marshmallow flowers is an excellent remedy for meningitis; A decoction of the herb in the form of a lotion helps with inflammation of the eyelids. According to the scientist, a decoction of marshmallow seed is the best cough medicine. A decoction of marshmallow root helps with burning pain in the bladder area, and a decoction of the leaves facilitates childbirth, and also softens abscesses and swelling. Marshmallow leaves, boiled in vinegar, are lubricated on the skin and dried in the sun - it helps with, as well as with snake and bee bites. Amasiatsi also mentioned that all parts of the marshmallow can be harmful to the spleen.

In the past, doctors used almost all parts of the marshmallow: flowers, leaves, roots and fruits. Flowers, boiled in water with the addition of honey or ground with wine, were used to treat wounds, scrofula and hemorrhoids. The leaves, crushed and mixed with duck fat, were applied to tumors, abscesses and boils. Marshmallow roots, along with chamomile flowers, hoof leaves, lily bulbs and violet roots were included in a complex ointment, without which not a single doctor in the Middle Ages could do, since many colds and skin diseases, dysentery, kidney and genitourinary diseases were treated with such ointment. Renaissance doctors believed that marshmallow decoction, drunk with water acidified with vinegar, was an antidote. But marshmallow became most famous due to its expectorant properties, since it was widely used for dry coughs, bronchitis and lung diseases.
In the Middle Ages, marshmallow was also widely cultivated in monastery gardens and vegetable gardens by the Benedictine Fathers. The herbalist of the medieval Polish physician and botanist Simon Sirensky (1541–1611) recommended using marshmallow roots infused with wine as a remedy for stomach pain, dysentery and diarrhea, and roots boiled in milk with the addition of roots for advanced bronchitis and dry cough . The roots, boiled in vinegar, were also used to treat toothache, and the roots, ground and mixed with honey, were used to treat mastitis in nursing women and for breast inflammation. A tincture of marshmallow seeds in wine was used to treat kidney diseases accompanied by urinary retention, as well as kidney stones. Medieval herbalists recommended using marshmallow for arthritis and chronic constipation. In the old days, marshmallow was well known as a cleansing agent; magical properties were even attributed to the plant. Marshmallow was a proven cough remedy for many residents of the Carpathians and Carpathian region: the Hutsuls used a decoction of the aerial part of the marshmallow or mucus along with flowers, and the Boyks used mainly a decoction of marshmallow roots or mucus ( Z. E. Boltarovich, 1980).
Marshmallow was also a popular medicine in Indo-Tibetan medieval medicine. The healing properties of marshmallow, which Tibetan medicine called “champ-pa,” are described in the treatise of Vaidurya-onbo (XVII century).
In the Russian Empire, foreign doctors, who learned from the experience of medieval doctors, used marshmallow root in the same way as famous ancient scientists did many centuries ago. During the Renaissance, marshmallow roots were used to treat wounds, abscesses, hemoptysis, and dysentery.
Some Russian historical documents provide interesting facts, in particular, one of them indicates that on August 3, 1632, the clerk of the Pharmacy Prikaz, Gerasim Artemyanov, and citizen Maxim Cherny were ordered to release two pounds of wax necessary for making marshmallow ointment. Another document says that on February 15, 1633, boyar Vasily Streshnev was given a large amount of medicines on his campaign, including one and a half pounds of marshmallow ointment. That is, back in the 17th century in Russia, marshmallow was one of the important sources for the preparation of medicines, was in great demand and was used in military medicine.
Particularly popular in medieval Europe was the so-called Rhine wine, infused with various herbs. Wine had a laxative effect and was used for diseases of the digestive system. The recipe for its preparation included 31 types of plant materials, and the first in the recipe were 6 spools of marshmallow roots. Since 1778, the roots of marshmallow were included in all Russian, and over time, Soviet pharmacopoeias.

Pharmacological properties of marshmallow

Althaea as a medicinal plant has been pharmacologically studied quite well.
The pharmacological activity of marshmallow root is primarily due to the high content of heterogeneous mucilage polysaccharide.
In modern pharmacological nomenclature, marshmallow root belongs to the group of antitussives. Preparations based on marshmallow soothe severe coughs, for example, with laryngitis. A mucous decoction of marshmallow root, flowing down the back wall of the pharynx, moistens the vocal cords, penetrates the trachea, softening dense plaque, and accelerates the healing of affected areas of the mucous membrane. Due to the content of mucus, starch, polysaccharides and other colloidal compounds, marshmallow-based preparations envelop the affected areas and protect the nerve endings of the mucous membranes of the pharynx and trachea from irritating factors. This indicates that marshmallow roots not only have a pronounced therapeutic effect, but also contribute to a longer local action of other medications.
The antitussive properties of polysaccharides and marshmallow complex extract were confirmed in an experiment on cats. When administered orally, marshmallow extract at a dose of 50 and 100 mg/kg inhibited the development of the cough reflex caused by mechanical irritation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx, larynx and trachea by nylon fibers. Marshmallow polysaccharides at a dose of 50 mg/kg showed the same activity as marshmallow syrup at a dose of 1000 mg/kg, and were more effective than the non-narcotic antitussive drug prenoxdiazine at a dose of 30 mg/kg. However, the antitussive effect of marshmallow polysaccharides is much less pronounced than the similar effect of dropopizine.
An aqueous extract of marshmallow root, taken orally in a sufficiently large dose, has an enveloping effect on the gastric mucosa. Its protective effect is more effective and lasting, the higher the acidity of gastric juice, since the viscosity of mucus increases under the action of hydrochloric acid. Mucous substances and colloidal aqueous solutions of the root envelop the affected ulcerative-erosive areas of the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, creating a protective layer that prevents the action of aggressive components and pathogenic flora, and also creates favorable conditions for healing. Plant mucus from marshmallow root coats the mucous membranes of organs with a thin layer for a long time, protecting them from further irritation by harmful factors, in particular cold or dry air, chemical irritants, and preventing them from drying out. Mucus is able to adsorb and inactivate toxins of bacteria and viruses, toxic products that damage epithelial cells, and prevents contact of toxins with the mucous membrane. As a result of the above action of mucus, spontaneous regeneration of damaged tissues decreases and the intensity of the inflammatory process decreases. Acting as a protector, plant mucus softens thick plaque (for example, plaque on the mucous membranes of the pharynx and larynx). In addition, due to its colloidal properties, mucus facilitates expectoration. The experiment proved that the biologically active substances of marshmallow root potentiate the local anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids in altered areas, while simultaneously exhibiting an anti-inflammatory effect.
In experiments conducted on guinea pigs with experimental cough caused by ammonia aerosol, R. F. Stavrova, G. F. Obolentseva (1972) investigated the antitussive effect of marshmallow root extract and dry marshmallow mucus in comparison with isocholine alkaloids of opium poppy and codeine. As a result of the experiment, it was found that marshmallow root extract, after oral administration, reduced the frequency and intensity of coughing attacks in animals. It was found that dried marshmallow mucilage and two isoquinoline alkaloids of poppy were four times more active than marshmallow root extract. Codeine produced a similar effect at a dose 17 times less than the dose of marshmallow extract. In the mechanism of the antitussive effect of drugs based on marshmallow, a peripheral effect is important, due to the facilitation of expectoration of bronchial secretions (secretolytic effect) with a slight relaxation of the bronchial muscles.
Employees of the Kharkov Scientific Research Institute of Chemical Physics, now the State Center for Medicines, based on the marshmallow herb, created and put into production a drug mucaltin- light gray powder containing the amount of polysaccharides (dry mucus) from the specified raw materials. In experiments conducted on guinea pigs in which an experimental cough was induced, mucaltin exhibited a pronounced antitussive effect, exceeding the effect of marshmallow root extract. This drug also has an antispastic effect and eliminates spasm of bronchial smooth muscles.
The polysaccharide fraction from marshmallow root has immunostimulating properties. It increases the phagocytic activity of mouse peritoneal macrophages, enhances the proliferative response of lymphocytes to mitogens, and stimulates the humoral and cellular immune response. When marshmallow polysaccharides were administered to mice simultaneously with immunization with sheep erythrocytes or after it, they increased by 2–3 times the number of antibody-forming cells in the spleen and the relative weight of the spleen, increased the intensity of phagocytosis of sheep erythrocytes by 3 times, and stimulated the intensity of the cellular delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to erythrocytes.
A new galenic remedy made on the basis of marshmallow polysaccharides, mucaltin had no effect on the respiratory and vomiting centers and was well tolerated by animals.

Toxicology, side effects and contraindications

In experiments conducted on experimental animals and in clinical studies, no pronounced toxic effects of marshmallow-based preparations were observed. However, when treated with marshmallow-based drugs, allergic reactions in the form of rash and itching may occur. If reactions of this kind occur, it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug by 2 times and the frequency of administration, and if side effects do not disappear, it is necessary to consult with your doctor about the advisability of further use of the drug. With prolonged use and overdose of marshmallow-based products, nausea and vomiting may occur. To eliminate these symptoms, it is necessary to rinse the stomach and discontinue the drug.

It is not advisable to use marshmallow preparations in parallel with drugs that inhibit the cough reflex, and with histaminolytics that thicken sputum. They are also inappropriate to use with drugs that cause the body.

Due to the formation of a thick layer of mucinogenic substances in the digestive tract, marshmallow mucus can limit the absorption of toxic products in case of poisoning with drugs or toxic substances. At the same time, there is a decrease in the penetration of toxins into the bloodstream. It should be noted that marshmallow mucus does not have antidote properties and cannot inactivate toxins, but it prevents intoxication with pesticides and reduces the manifestations of intoxication.

The use of marshmallow in clinical medicine

The significant content of mucus determines the use of herbal preparations from marshmallow for diseases of the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract. Due to their enveloping, protective, softening, anti-inflammatory properties, as well as expectorant and mild analgesic effects, they are used for chronic bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis; whooping cough, acute respiratory diseases, bronchopneumonia and bronchial asthma.

It is advisable to classify marshmallow root as a group of antitussives. Preparations based on marshmallow soothe severe coughs, for example, with laryngitis; a mucous decoction of marshmallow root, flowing down the back wall of the nasopharynx, moistens the vocal cords, penetrating the trachea, softens hard plaque, while promoting the healing of the mucous membranes. Due to the content of mucus, starch and other polysaccharides and substances of a colloidal nature, the preparations envelop the affected areas and protect the nerve endings of the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx and trachea from various irritating factors.

In clinical studies of mucaltin as an expectorant in complex etiopathogenetic therapy of the respiratory tract, in particular for pneumonia, it was found that this drug has a pronounced expectorant effect with a decrease in viscosity and an increase in the amount of sputum, accompanied by a gradual decrease in the cough reflex and a decrease in duration with an increase in efficiency cough. According to studies, the effectiveness of mucaltin in chronic pneumonia depends on the nature of the inflammatory process (with the exudative nature of the inflammation, with bronchiectasis, the effect of the drug is significantly higher than with the productive one), as well as on the condition of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree (with widespread subatrophic and atrophic endobronchitis it decreases).

In patients with bronchial asthma, mucaltin is effective only while taking bronchospasmolytics (ephedrine, theophedrine, etc.), which increases its expectorant effect, reducing cough. The effectiveness of mucaltin increases with the use of 3% potassium iodide.

Comparison of the effect of mucaltin with the effect of other expectorants (3% potassium iodide, expectorant mixture with thermopsis and soda) indicates the advisability of using mucaltin to thin and enhance expectoration of sputum in patients with chronic pneumonia. In the exudative form of pneumonia with the presence of bronchiectasis, the use of mucaltin provides a fairly good effect. In the productive (interstitial) form of chronic pneumonia, accompanied by the release of a small amount of sputum, the effectiveness of mucaltin can be increased by preliminary oral administration of 3% potassium iodide in acceptable doses, or by iontophoresis.

In clinical trials of granular and tablet forms of mucaltin in patients with chronic bronchitis, a tendency towards positive clinical dynamics of indicators and the dynamics of positive changes in the state of mucociliary clearance was observed. The main mechanism of the drug is due to an increase in the expectorant effect with dilution of expectoration. The drainage function of the bronchi increases, the processes of purulent sputum secretion intensify, followed by a transition to mucous sputum. The therapeutic effect of the drug is observed after 24 hours after the start of use and lasts throughout the entire treatment period.

Also, the attention of clinicians was focused on the therapeutic effect of the complex herbal medicine Tonsilgon N produced by the German company Bionorica (since 1933 - Bionorica), created on the basis of extracts from marshmallow roots and chamomile flowers, horsetail herb, yarrow herb, walnut leaves and oak bark . The results of treatment of children with chronic tonsillitis with the drug Tonzilgon N, carried out by scientists from the St. Petersburg Research Institute of Ear, Throat, Nose and Speech, this drug can be widely used in the complex treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract in children, as a means of stimulating resistance organism with antiviral activity ( S. V. Ryazantsev et al., 2002). The drug Tonsilgon N is effective in the treatment of patients with acute and chronic inflammatory processes of the pharynx and can be recommended for the treatment of these diseases as monotherapy, as an addition to antibacterial therapy, as well as for the prevention of postoperative complications during tonsillectomy ( Yu. V. Mitin, Yu. V. Deeva, 2000). The results of treatment of 32 children with chronic tonsillitis with the drug Tonzilgon N, carried out by the Moscow Academy named after. I.M. Sechenov, confirmed the disappearance of symptoms of this disease in 20 children. The drug has an immunomodulatory effect and can be used as an alternative to tonsillectomy ( G. I. Drinov et al., 2001).

In addition to pulmonology, marshmallow root is also used in gastroenterology: for and with increased acidity of gastric juice. When used together with other more active anti-inflammatory drugs, marshmallow root mucus has the ability to slow down their evacuation, thereby creating positive conditions for a longer and more complete action of anti-inflammatory drugs on the affected areas. Marshmallow is used to soften and eliminate thick layers of plaque during inflammation of the mucous membranes.

The effectiveness of the enveloping effect in the stomach increases with increased acidity of gastric juice, since the interaction with hydrochloric acid increases the viscosity of mucus. Therefore, the drug is distributed in a thin layer over the surface of the gastric mucosa and remains for a long time.

In the form of enemas, a mucous infusion of marshmallow containing starch is also recommended for chronic diseases and dysentery.

An infusion of marshmallow root is prescribed in the form of gargles, poultices and enemas, and is also used as a dietary supplement and when following a mucus diet.

Clinical observations of the use of marshmallow tincture and extract for eczema and psoriasis are noteworthy. Patients were prescribed marshmallow in the form of tincture and extract orally, 1 tablespoon 3 times a day before meals for 1–3 weeks. As a result of treatment, a significant improvement in the condition of most patients was observed. For example, in patients with psoriasis, there was a transition of the disease from a progressive stage to a stationary stage, and from a stationary stage to a regressive one. The intensity and prevalence of psoriatic rash decreased. In all patients, sleep, appetite, and mood improved, irritability disappeared, stool normalized, and diuresis increased. In parallel with the regression of pathological manifestations on the skin, the functional state of the adrenal cortex improved. The beneficial effects of marshmallow-based products have been noted on metabolism also in neurodermatitis and dermatitis of various etiologies.

Marshmallow root extract, which contains mucilage, is also used in radiology. Double contrasting of the colon with the addition of marshmallow extract to the barium suspension, with maximum savings of X-ray films and time, made it possible to obtain a contrast image of polyps in almost all parts of the rectum without significant side effects ( B. G. Perepelkin, 1967).

However, the above message by B. G. Perepelkin about the use of a mucous decoction of marshmallow roots in an X-ray examination of the colon for polyps somewhat later led to a discussion among scientists in some clinical journals. In particular, prof. Vilnius State University D. E. Kuntsevich considered the method of radiography of the colon with marshmallow mucus, proposed by B. G. Perepelkin, to be ineffective compared to the double-blind contrast method using special equipment for radiography of the colon (D. E. Kuntsevich, 1968). However, there have been no comparative studies of methods that have cast doubt on the effectiveness of marshmallow mucus for radiography of the colon.

Marshmallow roots are also a promising raw material for producing effective cosmetics. Due to the content of mucilage, amino acids, vitamins and tannins, marshmallow roots have softening, protective, astringent and hydrating properties and can be widely used in skin and hair care ( V. Yankova et al., 1990).

Powder from marshmallow roots is also used in pharmacy as an integral part in the manufacture of dosage forms. The presence of mucus and starch in marshmallow roots facilitates the formation of a plastic dough-like mass in the manufacture of pills and some soft forms of medicine. This ingredient is especially often used as an adhesive component and filler in the manufacture of powders, pills, mixtures, porridges, and powders.

Medicines and dietary supplements

1. Roots of marshmallow - Radix Althaeae officinalis. Boxes with a capacity of 45 and 100 g of dry crushed marshmallow root. Used to prepare a decoction.
Method of preparation: 1 tbsp. Place a spoonful of crushed root in an enamel bowl, add 100 ml of water at room temperature and leave for 1 hour, then filter, squeeze and add water to 10 ml. Adults take 1 tablespoon warm every 2 hours. Children, regardless of age, on the recommendation of a doctor, are given from 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon 4-6 times a day as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent for diseases of the respiratory tract, in particular acute laryngitis, tracheitis, acute and chronic bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, whooping cough.

2. Alteyka - Altejca. Syrup, 100 ml of which contains: marshmallow root extract (in terms of polysaccharide content 20%) - 0.15 g. Syrup based on marshmallow root is a complex herbal preparation containing polysaccharides - mucus as the main active ingredient, as well as pectins, amino acids, starch and other substances. The drug has a bronchosecretory, expectorant and enveloping effect. It has weak anti-inflammatory activity, exerting a slight irritating effect on the receptors of the mucous membrane of the oral cavity and stomach, and reflexively stimulates the secretion of the bronchial and salivary glands. Activates the formation of sputum, normalizing its rheological properties (viscosity, elasticity, adhesiveness), enhances the peristaltic movements of bronchioles and the motor function of the ciliated epithelium of the bronchi, promoting the release of sputum. The mucus included in the drug, enveloping the gastric mucosa, has a cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effect, promoting tissue regeneration, and reduces the secretion of gastric juice. The gastroprotective effect of the drug is stronger and longer, the higher the acidity of gastric juice.
Used for acute and chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system: laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, whooping cough. The drug is also used for inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular for catarrhal conditions of the esophagus, gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers and enterocolitis.
The drug is taken before meals: children under 1 year - 1/2 teaspoon 1-2 times a day; children from 1 to 2 years old - 1/2 teaspoon of syrup 3-4 times; children from 2 to 7 years old - 1 teaspoon of syrup 4–6 times; children from 7 to 14 years old - one dessert spoon 4–6 times; and children over 14 years of age and adults - 1 tablespoon of syrup 4–6 times.
The duration of the course of drug therapy is determined individually, depending on the effectiveness of treatment, and on average is 7–14 days.

3. Altemix - Altemix. Syrup for children and adults. 1 bottle (100 ml) of the drug contains: dry marshmallow root extract - 2 g or marshmallow root extract (in terms of the amount of reducing sugars 12%) - 0.5 g.
The drug has an expectorant, enveloping and anti-inflammatory effect. The pharmacological effect of the drug is manifested in increasing the secretion of bronchial glands, reducing the viscosity of sputum, facilitating its discharge and improving breathing. The ingredients of the drug stimulate the bronchial glands, which helps stimulate the motor function of the ciliated epithelium.
Used as an expectorant for acute and chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract (bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis, bronchopneumonia, bronchial asthma, whooping cough).
Take half an hour before meals: children under 6 years old - 1 teaspoon 4-5 times a day; children from 6 to 12 years old - 2 teaspoons 4–5 times; children over 12 years old and adults - 1 tablespoon 4–5 times. The duration of use depends on the severity of the disease.

4. Bronchial fix (Herbapol, Poland).
The collection is in a fix-bag, which contains: marshmallow root (Radix Althaeae) - 50%; plantain leaf (Folium Plantaginis lanceolatae) - 25%; linden inflorescences (Inflorescentia Tiliae) - 25%.
The product has anti-inflammatory, bacteriostatic, diaphoretic and antipyretic properties. It is used as an adjuvant for the treatment of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract and oral cavity, accompanied by a dry cough. Method of preparation: pour 1 sachet with 200 ml of hot water, cover the glass and leave for 10–15 minutes. Drink the infusion 4 times a day.

5. Medicinal collection Bronchophyte - Species Broncophyt. Contains: licorice root - 9 g; thyme herb - 8 g; lily of the valley leaf - 9 g.
Used as an expectorant, antitussive and anti-inflammatory agent. Due to the release of an increased amount of bronchial secretion and a decrease in its viscosity, the drug facilitates expectoration of sputum, reduces cough, and has anti-inflammatory and restorative properties. It is used for the prevention and treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, accompanied by the formation of viscous sputum, cough and bronchospasm, symptoms of bronchial asthma with difficult sputum discharge, bronchiectasis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis and rhinitis.
Method of preparation: 2 tablespoons of the collection are poured into 500 ml of boiling water, left in a sealed container for 1 hour. Drink 2/3 cup 3-4 times a day.

6. Gastrosan fix (Herbapol, Poland).
The collection is in a fix-bag, which contains: chamomile inflorescences - 50%, marshmallow root (Radix Althaeae) - 33%, peppermint leaf (Folium Menthae piperitae) - 17%. It is used as an adjuvant for inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, peptic ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, and for poor digestion caused by insufficient secretion of gastric juice. Method of preparation: place 2 bags in a glass and pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 25 minutes. Drink 1 glass of infusion 5 times a day.
7. Dry cough mixture for children for internal use - Mixtura sicca contra tussim pro infantibus (JSC Ternopil Pharmaceutical Factory, Ukraine).
Dry powder in a bottle that contains: marshmallow root extract - 4.0 g, sodium bicarbonate - 2.0 g, sodium benzoate - 2.0 g, dry licorice root extract - 1.0 g, ammonium chloride - 5.0 g , anise essential oil - 0005 g, sugar - 10.0 g. Used as an antitussive, anti-inflammatory and expectorant for diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Before use, dilute with boiled and cooled water to the “200 ml” mark on the bottle.
Prescribed orally after meals, children under 6 years old - 1 teaspoon of the mixture 4-5 times a day, children over 6 years old - 1 dessert spoon 3-4 times a day. If necessary, adults are also prescribed 1 tablespoon of the mixture 4–6 times a day. Shake the mixture before use. The diluted mixture can be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature not exceeding 8 ° C for 10 days. Do not use the mixture after the expiration date indicated on the package.

8. Linkas - Lincas (Herbalage, Pakistan).
Collection in a box, 100 g of which contains: Benedictine thistle herb (Herba Cnici benedictici) - 20 g, yarrow herb (Herba Millefolii) - 20 g, trifoliate leaf (Folium menianthidis) - 20 g, peppermint leaf (Folium Menthae piperitae) - 15 g, marshmallow leaf (Folium Althaeae) - 15 g, caraway fruit (Fructus Carvi) - 10 g.

The drug effectively reduces the intensity of cough and sputum production, thins thick viscous sputum and promotes its release (mucolytic and expectorant effects). It has a general anti-inflammatory effect, facilitates breathing (bronchodilator effect), and also has an antipyretic and diaphoretic effect. Creates a protective layer on the inflamed surface of the pharynx (local anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect). Reduces inflammation, swelling, pain in the nasopharynx and relieves nasal congestion. Strengthens immunity (immunomodulatory effect).
Directions for use: adults - 2 teaspoons 3-4 times a day, children - 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day, infants - 1/2 teaspoon 3-4 times a day for coughs, dry and irritating cough, as well as cough caused by asthma and bronchitis (acute and chronic).
The drug is contraindicated for allergies, since individual components of the drug can predetermine allergic manifestations and in some cases allergic reactions (urticaria, itching) may occur; for diabetes mellitus and infants up to 6 months. The drug has no hypnotic effect and is not addictive.

9. Mucaltin - Mucaltinum. Table 0.05 g each, granules 0.05 g in bag No. 2, packed in contour packaging No. 10.
Contains active ingredient: a mixture of polysaccharides from marshmallow, 0.5 and 0.05 g each.
Used for acute and chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract and lungs (tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.). Mucaltin tablets are prescribed to adults, 1–2 tablets per dose. Consume before meals. Single doses for children, depending on age, are: up to 1 year - 1/2 tablet, from 1 to 3 years - 1 tablet, over 3 years - 1-2 tablets. Mucaltin granules are consumed within 15 minutes. before meals in the form of an aqueous solution. For children, the drug in the form of granules should be dissolved in 1/2 glass of warm water, adding sweet syrup. Adults are prescribed 1 g of granules orally 4 times a day. To do this, pour the contents of one package (2 g of granules) into a glass, add 2 tablespoons of warm water, shake until the granules are completely dissolved and take in 2 doses (with an interval of 3-4 hours). Moreover, one tablespoon contains about 0.025 g of mucaltin. Prescribed depending on age: children from 1 month to 1 year - 15 ml of solution (1 tablespoon); from 1 to 3 years - 30 ml of solution (0.05 g of the drug); from 3 to 7 years - 45 ml of solution (0.075 g of the drug); over 7 years - 60 ml of solution (0.1 g of the drug). It is recommended that both adults and children take mucaltin 3-4 times a day.

10. Temtusin-C - Temtussinum-C. Granules in a paired packet with a dosage of 0.6 g No. 9. One packet contains: paracetamol - 0.25 g, ascorbic acid - 0.1 g, polysaccharides from marshmallow - 0.075 g.
Indications for use: infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system in adults and children, accompanied by pain and fever; acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis in the acute phase, pneumonia, influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.

Used to prepare a suspension for internal use in children under 9 years of age; the contents of the package (0.6 g) are dissolved in 50 ml of warm boiled water. A single dose of the drug for children aged 3 months to 4 years is 0.025 g per 1 kg of body weight, the frequency of administration is 3–4 times a day, a single dose for children aged 4–8 years is 1–2 tablespoons of a suspension of the drug (0.3–0.6 g) 3–4 times a day. For children over 9 years of age, the suspension is prepared by dissolving the contents of 1–2 sachets (0.6–1.2 g) in 50–100 ml of warm boiled water. Prescribe 2–4 tablespoons of suspension 3–4 times a day.
Adolescents and adults weighing more than 60 kg are prescribed the drug in a single dose of 1.2 g (contents of 2 sachets), dissolving it in 50–100 ml of warm boiled water with a dosage frequency of up to 4 times a day. The maximum duration of treatment is 5–7 days.

11. Pektosan (Herbapol, Poland).
A mixture of herbs in the form of a collection in a 100 g package, which contains: marshmallow root (Radix Althaeae) - 40%, knotweed herb - 30%, common thyme herb (Herbae Thymi vulgaris) - 10%, fennel fruit (Fructus Foeniculi) - 10%, sage leaf (Folium Salviae) - 10%.
It is used as an adjuvant for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, for coughs accompanied by difficulty breathing. Directions for use: pour 1 tablespoon of the collection into a glass (200 ml) of cold water, bring to a boil, close the lid, leave for 10 minutes, strain and consume the resulting broth 1 glass 3 times a day, freshly prepared, for children from 2 to 6 years old drink the decoction 1/2 cup 3 times a day.

12. Pectose tablets - Tabulettae Pektosy (Herbapol, Poland).
Sucking tablets that contain: sage leaf (Folium Salviae), common thyme herb (Herbae Thymi vulgaris), marshmallow root (Radix Althaeae), coltsfoot leaf (Folium Farfarae), caraway fruit (Fructus Carum Carvi). Used as an adjuvant in the treatment of dry cough caused by upper respiratory tract infection.

13. Pulmosan (Herbapol, Poland).
A mixture of herbs in the form of a collection that contains: angelica root (Radix Angelicae), Icelandic lichen thallus (Lichenis Islandicae), common mullein flowers (Floris Verbasci), lanceolate plantain leaf (Folium Plantaginis lanceolatae), primrose root (Radix Primulae). Method of preparation: pour 1 tablespoon of the collection with a glass of boiling water, cover with a lid and leave for 30–50 minutes, then filter and consume 1–2 glasses 3 times a day for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

14. Tisane Grande chartreuse (Laboratoires de L'AYROCI, France).
A collection for making tea or decoction, 100 g of which contains: marjoram leaf - 6 g, marshmallow root - 11.25 g, licorice root - 22.50 g, senna leaf - 15 g, lemon balm leaf - 3.75 g, mint leaf pepper - 7.50 g, ash bark - 15 g, wallflower herb - 6 g, coriander fruit - 2.25 g. Drink 1 glass of decoction or tea as a mild gastric laxative for constipation, intestinal diseases and indigestion.

15. Tonsilgon H - Tonsilgon N (Bionorica, Germany).
Available in the form of a solution and dragee; 100 g of solution contains: 29 g of aqueous-alcoholic extract prepared in 59% ethanol from marshmallow root (Radix Althaeae) - 0.4 g, chamomile flowers (Flores Chmomillae) - 0.3 g, horsetail herb (Herba Equiseti) - 0 .5 g, Greek nut leaf (Folia Juglandis) - 0.4 g, yarrow grass (Herba Millefolii) - 0.4 g, oak bark (Cortex Quercus) - 0.2 g, dandelion grass (Herba Taraxaci) - 0, 4 g. 100 ml of solution contains 16–19 vol% ethanol.
1 tablet contains: marshmallow root powder (Radix Althaeae) - 8 mg, chamomile flowers (Flores Chamomillae) - 6 mg, horsetail herb (Herba Equiseti) - 10 mg, walnut leaf (Folia Juglandis) - 12 mg, yarrow herb (Herba Millefolii) - 4 mg, oak bark (Cortex Quercus) - 4 mg, dandelion grass (Herba Taraxaci) - 4 mg.
The herbal components included in the drug have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, reduce swelling of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and paranasal sinuses. They reduce pain in the throat area, and also have an immunostimulating and antiviral effect.
Indications for use: acute and chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis; acute and chronic respiratory diseases; acute and chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses; prevention of complications in respiratory viral infections; adjuvant antibiotic therapy for bacterial infections; reduced immunity (particularly in childhood).
Prescribed to adults: 25 drops or 2 tablets 5-6 times a day; infants - 5 drops 5–6 times; children of preschool age - 10 drops 5–6 times; for school-age children - 15 drops or 1 tablet 5-6 times. After the elimination of acute manifestations of the disease, the drug must be taken for another week. The duration of basic therapy for chronic diseases is mainly 4–6 weeks.
Take 1 glass (150 ml) in 20 minutes. before meals.

16. Breast collection No. 1 - Species Pectorales Nr. 1.
100 g of collection contains: marshmallow root - 40 g, coltsfoot leaf - 40 g, oregano herb - 20 g. It is used as a decoction as an aid for coughs and inflammations of the upper respiratory tract.

17. Antihyperacid herbal mixture - Species antacidae (Herbapol, Poland). Available in paper boxes of 50 and 100 g, as well as in fix bags.

18. Expectorant herbal mixture - Species expectorantiae (Herbapol, Poland). Available in paper boxes of 50 and 100 g, as well as in fix bags.

19. Enveloping herbal mixture - Species mucilaginosae (Herbapol, Poland). Available in paper boxes of 50 and 100 g, as well as in fix bags. Contains Flax Seed (Semen Lini), Marshmallow Leaf (Folium Althaeae), Marshmallow Root (Radix Althaeae), Mallow Flower (Floris Malvae arborae), Woodroot (Radix Inulae), Licorice Root (Radix Glycyrrhizae), Burdock Herb (Herba Agrimoniae) . It is used in the form of tea as an adjuvant for bronchitis, catarrhal tonsillitis and inflammation of the oral cavity, for stomach and duodenal ulcers.

20. The Chambard-Tee (Brady, Austria).
A tea that contains: cassia angustifolia leaf, ash leaf, marshmallow leaf, peppermint leaf, lemon balm leaf, hyssop herb, hare's clover flowers, calendula officinalis inflorescences and blue cornflower inflorescences. For constipation, drink 1 serving of tea (per serving - 1 full teaspoon of tea) in the evening or in the morning.

21. Children's tea mixture (Megafyt, Czech Republic).
A tea mixture, one tablespoon (15 g) of which contains: peppermint herb - 75 mg, chamomile flowers - 375 mg, fennel fruits - 150 mg, marshmallow root - 300 mg, licorice root - 100 mg.
Directions for use: 1 teaspoon of the mixture is poured into 150 ml of boiling water, left for 5 minutes, filtered and consumed 4-5 times a day as an antispasmodic for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in children of different ages. A single dose for children under 2 years of age is 1 teaspoon 4–5 times a day.

22. Nontusyl (Slovakofarma, Slovak Republic).
Collection, 1 g of which contains: burdock herb - 100 mg, marshmallow root - 400 mg, lemon balm herb - 100 mg, linden flowers - 200 mg. 1 tablespoon of the collection is poured into a glass (200 ml) of boiling water, left for 10–15 minutes, filtered and consumed warm or hot in small portions throughout the day for severe, prolonged cough and bronchitis.

23. Expectorant tea mixture (Megafyt, Czech Republic).
Collection, 1 tablespoon (15 g) of which contains: plantain leaf - 375 mg, thyme herb - 225 mg, marshmallow root - 300 mg, licorice root - 225 mg, linden flowers - 75 mg, fruits with rosehip seeds - 300 mg. 1 tablespoon of the collection is poured into 250 ml of boiling water, left for 5 minutes, filtered and consumed 50 ml 3 times a day for influenza, as well as in the form of inhalations for diseases of the upper respiratory tract accompanied by cough.

24. Biotuss N (Spitzner, Germany).
Antitussive for children in the form of syrup. 100 ml of syrup contains: liquid pharmacopoeial extract of thyme - 0.94 g, marshmallow syrup - 4.6 g, homeopathic Drosera D2 - 0.01 g. Take 1 teaspoon (5 ml) 5 times a day for bronchitis and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract in children.

25. Eibisch sirup (Cefak, Germany).
100 g of syrup contains: aqueous macerate (1:2–2.5) of marshmallow root - 35.61 g. Take 1 teaspoon (5 ml) 6 times a day as an anti-inflammatory and enveloping agent on its own or as an adjuvant with other synthetic drugs or antibiotics for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and upper respiratory tract.

26. Bronchodilator herbal tea (“Keys of Health”, Ukraine).
Herbal tea that contains: marshmallow root, sage leaf, peppermint leaf, woody plant root, St. John's wort herb, calendula officinalis flowers, creeping thyme herb, licorice root, Echinacea purpurea herb. Directions for use: 1-2 sachets of herbal tea are poured with a glass of boiling water and left for 15 minutes. and consumed warm 3 times a day as an emollient, antispastic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and tonic for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

27. Herbal tea for children for cough (“Keys of Health”, Ukraine).
1 tea bag is poured into a glass of boiling water and consumed 3 times a day as an expectorant, antispastic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and sedative for coughs in children of different ages.

28. Bronchialtee 400 (TAD, Germany).
Tea granulate, 100 g of which contains: 5.4 g of thick aqueous extracts (7.8:1) from 10 g of fennel fruit, Icelandic moss - 5 g, thyme herb - 10 g, marshmallow root - 5 g, sage leaf - 7 g, linden flowers - 5 g. Used for colds, acute and chronic bronchitis. Drink 1 cup of tea 2-3 times a day.

B. M. Zuzuk, R. V. Kutsik, Ivano-Frankivsk State Medical University;
V. M. Kishchuk, Rivne Basic Medical College;
E. M. Krol, Lvov State Medical University. D. Galitsky

Photos and illustrations

State Pharmacopoeia of the USSR edition 10 1968 (GF 10) Page. 579-580 Marshmallow root

571. Radix Althaeae
Marshmallow root
Collected in autumn or spring, washed, cleared of the cork layer and dried lateral roots of the wild and cultivated perennial herbaceous plant marshmallow - Althaea officinalis L. and Armenian marshmallow - Althaea armeniaca Tep., fam. Malvaceae - Malvaceae.
External signs. Pieces of almost cylindrical shape or split lengthwise into 2-4 parts, slightly tapering towards the end, up to 35 cm long and usually 0.5-1.5 (2) cm thick. The surface of the root is longitudinally grooved with exfoliating long, soft bast fibers and dark spots - traces of fallen or cut off thin branches of roots. The color of the root outside and at the fracture is white, yellowish-white (marshmallow) or grayish (Armenian marshmallow). The fracture is granular-rough in the center, fibrous on the outside. When broken, it produces dust (starch); when wetted with water, it becomes slimy. The smell is weak, peculiar; the taste is sweetish, mucous.
Under a magnifying glass. A cross-section shows a tuftless structure: a light brown ring of cambium separates the vaguely radiate wood from the bark.
Cut raw materials. Pieces of various shapes ranging in size from 3 to 8 mm.

Microscopy. The cross section shows the predominance of thin-walled parenchyma tissue characteristic of the root. The bark contains numerous tangentially elongated groups of bast fibers, arranged in intermittent concentric belts. Smaller groups of fibers are scattered throughout the wood. Fibers 10-35 microns thick with slightly thickened, non-lignified or slightly lignified walls and a large gap. Vessels and tracheids are located in small groups. The core rays are single-, rarely double-rowed. In the parenchyma, numerous large cells with mucus are visible, located both in the bark and in the wood. The mucus dissolves in water, the cells become colorless and appear empty. A solution of methylene blue stains cells with mucus blue. To carry out double staining, the section is placed in a solution of ferric chloride for 20 minutes, the solution is removed with filter paper, an alcohol solution of methylene blue is added and washed with water. Mucous cells are painted yellow, fibers - blue, blood vessels - green; parenchyma cells remain colorless.
The parenchyma cells are filled with starch grains, and in some places there are small drusen of calcium oxalate.
A white, yellowish-white or grayish powder passing through a 0.315 mm sieve. Under the microscope, fragments of parenchyma with starch, individual starch grains of round, oval or ovoid shape, ranging in size from 3 to 27 microns, drusen of calcium oxalate, fragments of vessels, fragments of fibers are visible; Their fork-shaped branched endings are often found. Mucus is detected when examining the mascara.

Qualitative reactions. When a cut or root powder is wetted with an iodine solution, a blue color (starch) immediately appears; when wetted with a solution of ammonia or caustic soda, a yellow color appears. A 10% infusion of the root, prepared in cold water, turns lemon-yellow when adding ammonia or caustic soda solution. When concentrated hydrochloric acid (1:3) is added to the infusion, a yellowish-green color appears. When 95% alcohol (1.1) is added to the infusion, the mucus coagulates into flaky clots that precipitate when standing.

Purity test. The mucus obtained by infusing 1 g of marshmallow root with 10 ml of water should have only a slightly yellow color and a neutral reaction to litmus and should not have a moldy odor.

Numerical indicators. Moisture no more than 14%; total ash no more than 7% for marshmallow and no more than 8% for Armenian marshmallow, including ash insoluble in 10% hydrochloric acid, no more than 0.5%; woody roots no more than 3%, marshmallow roots, poorly cleared of cork, no more than 3%; organic impurity no more than 0.5%; mineral impurity no more than 0.5%. For cut raw materials: particles larger than 8 mm no more than 10%; crushed particles passing through a sieve with a hole diameter of 2 mm, no more than 15%, including particles passing through a sieve with a hole diameter of 1 mm, no more than 3%. For powder: particles that do not pass through a sieve with a hole size of 0.315 mm, no more than 1%.

Storage. In pharmacies - in boxes; in warehouses - in bags. The powder in pharmacies is stored in glass jars; in warehouses - in multilayer paper bags placed in fabric bags. The root is hygroscopic and easily dampened.

Expectorant.