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For years, marshmallow root has been known to have several potential health benefits. This perennial herb (althea officinalis) is traditionally used to treat certain digestive, respiratory, and skin conditions. You might have known that marshmallows (yes, the sweet and fluffy treat we use for s’mores) got their name from this plant.
Also known as a medicinal herb, marshmallow root has a wide variety of uses. No wonder there are plenty of marshmallow root brands available in the market. It might be a bit overwhelming to find the best ones, but don’t worry because we’ve done the job for you.
We’ve compiled this list of the 5 best marshmallow root supplements and where to buy them!
Quick summary:
Best Marshmallow Root Supplement: Nature’s Way Marshmallow Root
Best Marshmallow Root Extract: Nature’s Answer Marshmallow Root Fluid Extract
Most Affordable: Double Woods Supplements Marshmallow Root
| Brand | Content | Price/Number of Capsules | Dosage Recommended By Brand as Dietary Supplement |
| Nature’s Way | 480mg marshmallow root capsules | ~$12/100 capsules | 2 capsules daily |
| Solaray | 480mg marshmallow root capsules | ~$10/100 capsules | 1-3 capsules daily |
| Bulk Supplements | 100g marshmallow root extract powder | ~$14/100g | 1200mg (about ½ tsp) once or twice daily |
| Double Woods Supplements | 500mg marshmallow root capsules | ~$20/210 capsules | 2 capsules daily |
| Nature’s Answer | 1 fl oz (30ml) marshmallow root fluid extract | ~$11/30ml | 1-2ml (32-64 drops) three times a day |
5 Best Marshmallow Root Supplements
Nature’s Way Marshmallow Root
CONTENT:
480mg marshmallow root capsules
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$12/100 capsules
DOSAGE RECOMMENDED BY BRAND:
2 capsules daily with food or water
Pros
- Non-GMO, vegan-friendly
- One of the top-rated marshmallow root supplements
- Reviews mention benefits for stomach problems and interstitial cystitis (a chronic condition causing bladder pain)
- Reviews also include benefits for sore throat and urinary problems
Cons
- Capsules are big and might be hard to swallow
- May have an aftertaste
First on our list is the Nature’s Way marshmallow root vegan capsules. It’s also one of the most popular marshmallow root supplements in the market with a 4.6/5 customer rating on iHerb and Amazon. A notable feature of this brand is aside from it being organically grown, it’s also part of the non-GMO project. This is a label you’ll see also in products tested by a nonprofit organization that has verification systems to make sure it’s not genetically modified (GMO) and doesn’t have GMO ingredients.
The brand keeps it simple by advertising this supplement as a traditional way to soothe digestion, but a lot of the reviews cited how the product also worked for a wide variety of health conditions. Moreover, some of the commonly mentioned are symptom improvement of interstitial cystitis (IC), sore throat, UTI, acid reflux, and leaky gut.
Although the majority of reviews are good results, a few of them reported not experiencing the benefits right away, but other reviews note that you’ll most likely see results after 2-4 weeks. The brand also recommends taking 2 capsules (960mg total) a day.
Solaray Marshmallow Root
CONTENT:
480mg marshmallow root capsules
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$10/100 capsules
DOSAGE RECOMMENDED BY BRAND:
1-3 capsules daily with a meal or a glass of water
Pros
- Non-GMO, vegan-friendly
- Eco-friendly packaging (100% PCR recycled plastic bottles)
- More affordable compared to other brands
- Reviews mention benefits for cough and digestion problems
Cons
- May have an aftertaste
- People taking medications may have to consult with their doctors before taking this supplement to avoid drug interaction
With an average of 4.7/5 rating on iHerb and Amazon, it’s also one of the most familiar brands that gained a bunch of good reviews. It’s cheaper than other brands but doesn’t compromise quality because it’s lab-verified for potency and purity, plus it’s vegan-friendly and non-GMO.
Customer reviews also support its advertised benefit—for healthy respiratory function and digestion support. Those who suffer from leaky gut (a digestive condition of unhealthy gut lining due to bacteria and toxins leaking through the intestinal wall) reported symptom improvement after about 2 months. Several reviews also mention benefits for common digestion and stomach-related issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and IC, as well as for relieving cough.
Another notable feature of this product is the brand’s commitment to using 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic bottles for their packaging. However, based on some reviews, you may notice an unpleasant aftertaste, so it’s good to take it with a meal or a glass of water.
Bulk Supplements Marshmallow Root Extract
CONTENT:
100g marshmallow root extract powder
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$14/100g
DOSAGE RECOMMENDED BY BRAND:
Take 1200mg (about ½ tsp) once or twice daily with meals
Pros
- No additives
- Lab-verified, third-party tested
- Manufactured to current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) standards
- Reviews mention that the powder is easy to use and has a mild flavor
Cons
- Limited product information available
- Doesn’t thicken when added to liquid according to some reviews
This next product offers a unique approach because instead of the usual capsule, it’s an extract in powder form. Bulk Supplements marshmallow root extract has no other ingredients, hence, it’s free of added sugar, soy, gluten, and other additives. From over 600 reviews on Amazon, it also has an average of 4.5/5 rating as of this writing.
Moreover, one advantage of this powder-type supplement is its flexible use, which a lot of customers like. Some also mix it in their hot tea or coffee, use it as a DIY shampoo to detangle hair, or combine it with skin care products like lotion. A handful of reviews also say that this supplement helps relieve symptoms of stomach problems like gastritis and GERD, bladder problems such as IC, as well as cough and sinusitis.
Furthermore, the brand says that the product is rich in antioxidants, may aid in digestion, and support the heart, lungs, and skin health. But some customers expressed that it somehow lacks product information—like how it was extracted and why it’s brown (apparently, other marshmallow root extracts are white). However, because it’s in powder form, it might still be a good option for people who don’t like taking capsules.
Double Woods Supplements Marshmallow Root
CONTENT:
500mg marshmallow root capsules
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$20/210 capsules
DOSAGE RECOMMENDED BY BRAND:
2 capsules daily with food or water
Pros
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan-friendly, high mucilage content
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Quality, made in the USA
- 1 bottle is good for 3.5 months (around $6 only per month)
- Reviews mention benefits for symptoms of leaky gut, IC, IBS, respiratory congestion
Cons
- Large capsule size
- May cause dizziness
One clear advantage of this brand is its value for money. One bottle (210 capsules) can cover about 3.5 months of consumption. It’s also a good choice for those who are on a tight budget!
Despite being a cheaper option, the brand assures customers of its high-quality ingredient. This supplement also contains an extract of the whole root powder and preserves the various beneficial compounds present in the marshmallow root. It’s also a versatile option because the capsule can be taken either by mouth or can be opened and mixed into a drink like coffee or tea.
With a 4.7/5 rating on Amazon, it’s also one of the top-rated marshmallow root supplements on the market. The reviews also mention the improvement of symptoms of various health conditions like leaky gut, interstitial cystitis, respiratory congestion, and wheezing. Although the capsule is a bit bigger than usual, customers say that it’s not that hard to swallow.
Some also experienced side effects such as dizziness and insomnia. However, the brand reminds consumers to take the supplement with a full glass of water to help reduce the chances of having these side effects.
Nature’s Answer Marshmallow Root Fluid Extract
CONTENT:
1 fl oz (30ml) marshmallow root fluid extract
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$11/30ml
DOSAGE RECOMMENDED BY BRAND:
1-2ml (32-64 drops) three times a day in a small amount of water
Pros
- Alcohol-free, gluten-free, vegan
- Non-GMO project verified
- Reviews mention that it works for stomach and bladder issues of pets as well
- Tastes good when combined with water
Cons
- Quite expensive considering the number of servings per container
This supplement ranked #1 in marshmallow root supplements on iHerb with a 4.8/5 rating. It’s also produced using carefully controlled extraction techniques and a unique process called Advanced Botanical Fingerprint Technology to ensure the products contain only the highest quality ingredients.
Furthermore, reviews say that it works exactly as advertised—as support for healthy digestive function. They also use it to relieve stomach aches and other common digestive problems. They also mention that it’s a great product for cough, sore throat, and skin irritations.
This extract in fluid form may cost a little more than the capsule, but with its wide variety of uses, it might just be worth the extra bucks.
How to Choose the Best Marshmallow Supplement
Although all the supplements have marshmallow root as their main ingredient, they still differ in several ways. Here are some factors we considered in coming up with the list.
Type of Marshmallow Root and Dose
Marshmallow root supplements usually come in capsule, powder, and liquid forms. Moreover, in choosing a supplement, consider the type/form with which you’ll be most comfortable. We’ve also made sure to include the different types of marshmallow root supplements in our list and enumerated their pros and cons to help you pick the best one based on your needs and preferences.
Brand Reputation
As with any other supplement, it’s also important to consider the brand reputation to ensure high-quality products and ingredients. When coming up with our list, we made sure to only include products from trustworthy companies that follow good manufacturing practices and undergo third-party testing.
Value For Money
High cost doesn’t always equate to high quality, and vice versa. We’ve included different types of products with different price points but made sure that they are all worth your money.
Precautions and Side Effects
Marshmallow root supplements are generally well-tolerated. There are a few reported side effects such as dizziness and upset stomach, but this might be reduced by taking it with a full glass of water.
It’s also recommended to take one week off after taking marshmallow root for four weeks of daily use. This is to ensure the product’s efficacy and prevent tolerance during a longer treatment duration. Also, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement.
You should avoid the use of marshmallow root supplements if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have diabetes and taking medications
- Taking lithium
- Undergoing surgery within 2 weeks
FAQs
What Are Marshmallow Root Pills Good For?
Marshmallow root contains a high amount of soluble fiber called mucilage. It’s a sap-like substance that contains antioxidants. In addition, research suggests that the medicinal properties of this plant come from the mucilage which may soothe inflammation of the mucous membranes in the body.
Because of this effect, it’s traditionally used to relieve dry cough and sore throat, as well as urinary tract infections, stomach ulcers, and other digestive issues. [1]
Does Marshmallow Root Heal a Leaky Gut?
Someone with a leaky gut has an unhealthy digestive tract lining and may experience symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and pain in the stomach. Moreover, research suggests that the mucilage of this plant can create a protective layer on the gut lining. This may also help with the symptoms by soothing the inflammation.[1]
Does Marshmallow Root Affect Hormones?
A study involving animals says that the effect is dose-dependent but also notes that the potential negative effects are balanced by the positive ones. However, further research is warranted.[2]
When Should I Take Marshmallow Root Capsules?
Marshmallow root capsules can be taken at any time of the day, as long as with water or meals to reduce the chances of having side effects.
Conclusion
Considering its history as an effective herbal medicine and low risk of side effects, marshmallow root supplements can be a good home remedy for various minor health issues. As with any supplement or herbal medicine, talk to a doctor before using it, and do not substitute your doctor’s recommended treatment with herbal remedies.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing. We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at no extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Deters, A., Zippel, J., Hellenbrand, N., Pappai, D., Possemeyer, C., & Hensel, A. (2010). Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from Marshmallow roots (Althea officinalis L.): cellular internalisation and stimulation of cell physiology of human epithelial cells in vitro. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 127(1), 62–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.050
- Roshangar, F., Modaresi, M., & Toghyani, M. (2014). Effect of Marshmallow’s Root Extract on Thyroid Hormones in Broilers. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology, 7(1), 161–164. https://doi.org/10.19026/rjaset.7.234
