Marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) is an ornamental and medicinal plant known since the times of ancient Egyptian Empire. Sometimes called as althaea or white mallow, common marshmallow plant received its name from a Greek word “altho” meaning ‘to cure’, and in ancient Greece this natural remedy was used for a wide variety of health conditions. A creeping plant with slightly violet tender hibiscus-like flowers, marshmallow grows in a wide nature all around Northern Hemisphere, from Eastern North America through Europe to China and Japan. It is cultivated in many countries of modern Asia. Marshmallow leaves, roots, and flowers are traditionally used for various herbal preparations and have valuable medicinal properties. (more…)