Mon, 04 May 2026 09:21:06 +0000

This Hidden Gem of Nature Is About to Change What You Think Marshmallow Plants Can Do When you think of marshmallow plants, the image that springs to mind might be a childhood treat made from the sticky sap of the Althaea officinalis plant. But these humble, often overlooked botanicals are far more than a sweet confection’s history. Hidden in quiet corners of meadows, remote woods, and even urban gardens, the marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) is a botanical powerhouse with a surprising range of uses that science and new discoveries are beginning to unlock—reshaping how we see its potential. ### Why the Marshmallow Plant Is a Hidden Gem For centuries, marshmallow plants have been valued for their mucilaginous properties—substances that form gel-like substances when mixed with water. Ancient Egyptians used extracts from the roots and leaves to soothe soothe burns, irritated skin, and respiratory discomfort. Today, researchers are discovering that these gel-rich properties hold promise far beyond soothing candies.