Sore throat?
It can happen any time of year and is triggered by many different situations. Whether it’s from the dry, forced air of centrally heated homes, the smoke from wildfires, catching a cold or the arid environment of a plane cabin during travel, our throats often bear the brunt of the environmental shifts we face throughout the year—and it’s never fun to deal with.
“This mighty herb makes the perfect soothing beverage to ease an irritated throat.”
For me, a sore throat is really the first sign of anything going on. I am the child of 1960’s medicine where they removed tonsils at the drop of a hat. At 5 years old I had surgery to remove my tonsils, which are actually part of your immune system, the gateway to your throat and the rest of your body!
Anyway, because of this, my throat has always been my weak link. Without the immune system function there, sore throats have just been a big part of my health picture. When I travel anywhere, I always have a cache of sore throat remedies, I don’t leave home without them.
Marshmallow has been a constant ally for me, I am so grateful for this plant! Here is a simple recipe that I know can support any of your sore throat situations.
Used in a cold infusion, this mighty herb makes the perfect soothing beverage to ease an irritated throat.
What is Marshmallow Leaf?
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years.
- The ancient Egyptians were among the first to use marshmallow as medicine around 2000 BCE. They harvested the plant and used it to soothe sore throats and wounds. The Egyptian people also made a candy with the plant’s root and honey, which is said to have only been served to royalty and the gods.
- The Greeks also recognized marshmallow’s healing abilities, with Hippocrates, and later Galen, using the plant for wounds, bruises, and various internal ailments as early as the 9th century BCE.
- In the mid-1800s, French confectioners started whipping marshmallow sap with sugar, egg whites, and cornstarch, creating a fluffy candy. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that advancements in manufacturing techniques allowed for the mass production of marshmallows. This led to the sweet treat we know and love today, found in desserts like s’mores and hot chocolate.
Benefits of Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
Marshmallow contains high levels of mucilage, a gel-like substance that becomes slippery when wet. (Oats also contain it, which is why oatmeal sometimes has a slimy texture.)
This gelatinous material coats the throat, easing discomfort and occasional swelling. In addition to supporting your mucous membranes, you can also turn to marshmallow to support:
- Mild digestive issues
- Respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and bronchitis
- Skin problems, including eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds
While people often use the root of the plant, the leaves also contain mucilage, making it an excellent alternative.
Using marshmallow leaf for your cold infusion is not only safe and effective, but it’s more sustainable than using the roots. This is because harvesting the leaves allows the plant to continue growing for years to come.
What’s a Cold Infusion?
When we make an herbal cold infusion, the name can be a little misleading! In herbal medicine-making terms, a cold infusion doesn’t mean that it is ‘cold’, it just means that it isn’t hot! So instead of using hot or warm water in a ‘cold’ infusion, you use room temperature water.
The reason for this nuance is that marshmallow has healing mucilaginous properties that soothe and cool. Mucilaginous properties are preserved with room temperature water but aren’t as effective if you make the preparation with hot water.
How to Make a Marshmallow Leaf Cold Infusion
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried marshmallow leaves (or 1 cup fresh)
- 4 cups room temperature water
Instructions
- Place the marshmallow leaves in a pitcher or glass jar.
- Pour room temperature water over the marshmallow leaves.
- Cover the pitcher or jar with a lid or linen towel.
- Place the infusion on the counter for 4-8 hours. If you live in a hot climate, then put your infusion in the refrigerator to infuse for 4-8 hours.
- After the infusion period, strain the marshmallow leaves from the water using a fine mesh strainer. Compost the marshmallow leaves.
- For a sore throat, add a little warm water to your marshmallow infusion and drink slightly warm.
Notes
Help Your Sore Throat in a Pinch!
Next time your throat feels like it’s been through the wringer, skip the pharmacy run and head to your backyard or pantry instead. With marshmallow leaf, you have nature’s own remedy right at your fingertips. As always, be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family so they can whip up this infusion when they need it, too. Here’s to happy throats and feeling better!
More Resources
Did you know you can learn more recipes just like this one in my online courses? Unlock the hidden potential of culinary herbs in My Herbal Kitchen, or craft effective home remedies using everyday ingredients from your spice cabinet in Herbal Kitchen Remedy Solutions.
