Althaea Officinalis - NutraPedia

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Althaea Officinalis: An Overview

1) Conditions Studied for Althaea Officinalis

Althaea Officinalis, commonly known as marshmallow plant, has been studied for various conditions, including:

Respiratory ailments such as coughs and colds
Digestive problems like indigestion and stomach ulcers
Inflammatory skin conditions
Oral irritations

2) Efficacy in Treating Conditions

While traditional use suggests some benefits, scientific evidence on the efficacy of Althaea Officinalis is still emerging. Studies have indicated potential soothing effects on mucous membranes, which can help with respiratory and digestive issues. However, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to conclusively determine its effectiveness.

3) Health Benefits

Althaea Officinalis is believed to offer several health benefits due to its mucilage content, which can soothe and protect irritated tissues. Noted benefits include:

Relief from coughs and sore throats
Reduced digestive discomfort
Anti-inflammatory effects for skin conditions
Protection of the oral mucosa

4) Potential Downsides

While generally considered safe, Althaea Officinalis may have downsides, including:

Interference with the absorption of other drugs due to its high mucilage content
Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Limited data on long-term use and safety

5) Genetic Variations and Effects

There is limited research on the interaction between Althaea Officinalis and specific genetic variations. Personal genetic makeup can influence how individuals respond to herbal remedies, but currently, there are no widely recognized genetic markers that would indicate a beneficial or harmful response to Althaea Officinalis. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Research Summary on Althaea Officinalis

Phytochemical Discoveries: Research on Althaea officinalis seeds, part of the Malvaceae family, has unveiled three novel phytochemicals: altheahexacosanyl lactone, altheacalamene, and altheacoumarin glucoside. Known compounds such as lauric acid, beta-sitosterol, and lanosterol were also identified.

Flavonoid Glycosides: Two flavonoid glycosides were isolated from the plant's roots, including hypolaetin 8-glucoside and a new flavonoid sulfate identified as isoscutellarein 4'-methyl ether 8-glucoside-2''-sulfate potassium salt.

Polysaccharide Characterization: A high molecular weight acidic heteropolysaccharide from the root called AOP-2 was studied for its structure and functional properties. It is composed mainly of galacturonic acid, rhamnose, glucose, and galactose, with antioxidant properties and potential applications as a natural antioxidant.

Antioxidant Activity in Flowers: The antioxidant and flavonoid content of Althaea officinalis flowers was investigated, revealing that reddish pink flowers had the highest antioxidant activity while white flowers had the highest flavonoid content.

Cellular Effects of Extracts: Aqueous extracts and polysaccharides from Marshmallow roots showed to enhance the viability and proliferation of epithelial cells, supporting their traditional use for treating irritated mucous membranes and aiding tissue regeneration.

Cough and Respiratory Treatment: The plant's extracts are effective in treating dry cough and show enhanced efficacy when combined with other plant extracts, underlining its historical use in traditional medicine for respiratory issues.

Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing: Studies on Phytohustil® cough syrup and root extract of Althaea officinalis indicate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, as well as improvement in the repair of vascular endothelial cells.

Macrophage Protection: Phytohustil® and the root extract showed protective effects on macrophages, comparable or superior to the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac.

Phytochemical Composition: An extract from the roots contains various compounds including hypolaetin diglycoside and hypolaetin glycosides, which support therapeutic use for treating irritated and inflamed mucosal tissue.

UV-Protective Skincare: Root extracts of Althaea officinalis have potential as natural ingredients for UV-protective skincare products, especially against UVA-induced DNA damage.

Peptic Ulcer Protection: Ginger and marshmallow extracts displayed protective effects against indomethacin-induced peptic ulcers in rats, suggesting antioxidant properties and inhibition of histamine release.

Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis: Marshmallow ointment may be more effective than hydrocortisone in reducing the severity of atopic dermatitis in children.

Tonsillitis Treatment in Children: Herbal extract BNO 1030 (Imupret®), containing marshmallow root, was found to be effective and safe as a supplementary treatment for acute non-bacterial tonsillitis in children.

Antibacterial Properties: Marshmallow root extract exhibits antibacterial effects on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus, though less effective compared to chlorhexidine and penicillin.

Leaf Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides from Althaea officinalis leaves, especially AOLPS-3, demonstrated high antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and potential benefits for treating infertility.

Multiple Bioactivities: Extracts of the plant are a rich source of compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-regulating properties.

Gastro-Protective Effects: Extracts of marshmallow plant and black nightshade showed gastro-protective and antioxidant effects on rats with gastric ulcers.

Wound Healing Properties: Leaf extract of Althaea officinalis improved wound healing in rats, showing promise as a treatment for gram-positive bacterial infections.

Health Benefits of Flower Extract: The flower extract of Althaea officinalis has beneficial effects in treating lipemia, inflammation, gastric ulcers, and platelet aggregation.

Wound Healing in Rats: Treatments with Althaea officinalis gel enhanced wound healing in rats, significantly increasing fibroblast populations and collagen synthesis.

Antitussive Effects of Polysaccharides: Rhamnogalacturonan polysaccharides from marshmallow showed significant cough-suppressing effects in experimental trials, although allergic inflammation could reduce this effect.

Consumer Perceptions: Surveys on the effectiveness of cough preparations containing aqueous marshmallow root extracts concluded positive results in treating symptoms of oral or pharyngeal irritation and dry cough.

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