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Marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) is a medicinal plant used to cure a variety of diseases.
Although marshmallow root has been traditionally used as a medicine for cough, stomach ulcers, and skin diseases for ages, there is very limited scientific evidence of its healing capabilities.
More research is needed to prove their medical benefits, but anecdotal evidence is aplenty.
Marshmallow roots contain potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can be beneficial for your hair and scalp. (1)
Benefits of Marshmallow Root on Hair
Marshmallow root helps moisturize and condition your hair to get rid of dryness, tangles, and split ends. They are rich in proteins, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that can stimulate hair growth and strengthen your hair. (2)
Here are some examples of how this healing herb can benefit your hair:
1. Serves as a natural emollient (moisturizer)
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, which acts as an effective conditioner that helps nourish and condition your hair. (3)
2. Detangles hair
Marshmallow root can help hydrate your hair to get rid of dryness, frizz, and tangles.
3. Soothes and cleanses the scalp
Marshmallow root is a naturally available ingredient that can soothe your scalp. It contains antimicrobial properties that can help reduce scalp infections and cleanse your scalp naturally. (4)
4. Gives bounce and volume
Marshmallow root is a good source of nutrients and water that can add a natural shine to your hair and help increase its growth.
5. Conditions the hair
Mucilage, found abundantly in marshmallow root, is a powerful natural hair conditioner that can moisturize and add shine to your hair.
6. Reduces split ends and hair breakage
Marshmallow root contains a high amount of minerals, protein, and vitamins, which nourish your hair to make them strong and reduce hair breakage.
How to Use Marshmallow Root for Hair
Marshmallow root is filled with sugars, pectin, and mucilage. Mucilage is a slippery hydrating substance that holds water and acts as an emollient. It is rich in minerals, vitamin C, and amino acids.
All these qualities make marshmallow root a potent natural conditioner that can help get rid of dry, lifeless hair.
Here are a few DIY marshmallow root hair conditioner recipes:
1. Simple conditioner
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp marshmallow root
- 1 tbsp slippery elm bark powder
- 1 tbsp amla powder
- 2 cups water
How to use:
- Soak the marshmallow root, slippery elm bark powder, and amla powder in the water overnight.
- Boil the mixture for a few minutes, and then let it simmer on low heat.
- After cooling, strain and store the solution in a clean container.
- Apply the conditioner on your scalp and hair, and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before washing it off.
2. Detangler or leave-in conditioner
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp marshmallow root
- 2 tbsp aloe vera gel
- ½ tsp argan oil
- 2–3 cups water
How to use:
- Soak the marshmallow root in the water overnight.
- Boil the mixture for a while, and then let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
- After cooling, strain and add the remaining ingredients to it. Mix well.
- Store the solution in a clean container. Refrigerate it to make it last longer.
- Apply a little bit of the leave-in conditioner to your hair before brushing or combing.
3. Tea
Marshmallow root tea can be a relaxing and rejuvenating drink. It is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp marshmallow root
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tsp peppermint leaf or chamomile leaf
How to use:
- Combine all the ingredients and let the mixture sit overnight.
- Strain the mixture the next morning to get a pale-yellow tea.
- You can drink the tea directly on its own or with a teaspoon of honey.
4. Deep-conditioning treatment
Ingredients:
- 1–2 tbsp marshmallow root
- ½ tsp raw honey
- 2 cups water
- 2 tsp aloe vera gel
- 1 tsp almond oil
How to use:
- Boil marshmallow root and water for a few minutes. Lower the heat and let it simmer for a while.
- Cover the pot and let it steep.
- After cooling, strain the liquid and add the remaining ingredients to it. Stir well.
- Apply this conditioner to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for at least 15 minutes before washing it off.
5. Hair mask
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp marshmallow root
- ½ cup flaxseeds
- ¼ tsp rosemary oil
- 1 tsp vitamin E oil
How to use:
- Soak marshmallow root overnight in a bowl.
- Strain the water and add flaxseeds to it. Boil this solution until it turns jelly-like.
- Strain the solution and add vitamin E oil to it.
- Store the mixture in a clean container.
- Apply this homemade conditioner to your scalp and let it sit for half an hour.
- Wash it off with water.
Possible Side Effects
Marshmallow root is a natural protein and usually does not cause side effects. However, it may cause the following reactions in some people.
- Pregnancy: Marshmallow root is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may stimulate early labor in some women.
- Diabetes: Marshmallow root can lower your blood sugar levels, especially if you are on diabetes medication. Consult a doctor before using it if you are diabetic.
- Surgery: Marshmallow root may interfere with your blood sugar levels. Discontinue its use at least a couple of weeks before undergoing surgery.
Note: Make sure to perform a patch test before using marshmallow root.
Why Make Marshmallow Root Conditioner at Home?
Homemade conditioners are great for a number of reasons. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your hair type and make sure that it is free from toxic chemicals.
Final Word
Marshmallow root can be an effective solution for dull hair. It is a hydrating agent that helps soften and nourish your hair. Soft and conditioned hair can help reduce hair breakage, hair fall, and frizz.
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