Althaea officinalis SEEDS

Althaea officinalis, commonly known as marshmallow, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. Native to Europe and Western Asia, this herb has a long history of medicinal and culinary use. The name "marshmallow" is derived from its natural habitat in marshy areas.

The plant is characterized by its tall, upright stem, which can reach heights of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters). It produces distinctive pale pink or white flowers with five petals, which bloom during the summer months. The leaves of Althaea officinalis are soft and velvety to the touch.

Historically, the roots of this plant were used to create a mucilaginous substance that was employed for various medicinal purposes, such as soothing sore throats, alleviating coughs, and treating digestive issues. The roots were also used to make a confectionery treat similar to modern marshmallows, giving rise to the name.

Today, Althaea officinalis is still valued for its medicinal properties and can be found in herbal remedies and natural health products. Additionally, the plant's attractive flowers make it a popular choice in garden settings, contributing to its continued presence in horticulture and traditional herbal medicine.