ZLATNI ČAJEVI MARSHMALLOW ROOT TEA – cut Althaea root for a cold macerate, 50 g

How do you prepare Zlatni čajevi marshmallow root tea and when is it used?

Zlatni čajevi marshmallow root tea (Serbian: beli slez) contains cut, dried marshmallow root (Althaeae radix) and comes as loose tea in a 50 g pack. It is made in Serbia by the tea processor Ivana Čukanović PR "CHI" under the Zlatni čajevi brand, which also includes chamomile, mint, lemon balm and sage teas.

Marshmallow root is rich in mucilage. According to the manufacturer's declaration, it is used to coat irritated skin and mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive organs, its constituents have a favourable effect on soothing cough, and it is also used as an ingredient in tea blends for the urinary tract. The EU herbal monograph (EMA/HMPC) describes marshmallow root as a traditional demulcent for irritation of the mouth and throat with associated dry cough and for mild stomach discomfort.

Unlike most herbal teas, marshmallow root is not boiled but prepared as a macerate – soaked in water that has been boiled and cooled. This way the mucilage passes into the drink, which is the reason the root is used in the first place.

Active ingredients and features

Product characteristics according to the manufacturer's declaration:

How to use

Preparation according to the declaration:

• Pour 200 ml of previously boiled and cooled water over one tablespoon of the cut root.
• Leave to stand for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Strain through a thin layer of cotton.
• Drink several times a day; it may be sweetened with honey.
• For children, the declaration states one spoon of lukewarm tea every two hours.

Who is it for?

The tea is intended for adults who want a traditional herbal drink for an irritated throat and dry, tickly cough, or a mild drink with mucilage for a sensitive stomach. For children, follow the declaration and consult a paediatrician, especially for the youngest: the EU monograph does not recommend marshmallow root for children under 3 years.

Important notes

• Do not exceed the recommended daily amount; the tea is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet.
• Do not use if you are hypersensitive to any ingredient.
• Mucilage may delay the absorption of other medicines – take marshmallow tea ½ to 1 hour apart from them (EU monograph).
• During pregnancy and breastfeeding, while taking medicines or in case of health problems, consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
• If cough is accompanied by fever, shortness of breath or purulent sputum, or if it lasts longer than a week, see a doctor.
• Keep out of reach of children, store at room temperature and do not use if the outer packaging is damaged.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Why is marshmallow root not boiled?

Boiling would extract more starch and less mucilage from the root. That is why the declaration recommends pouring previously boiled and cooled water over the root and leaving it to stand for 30–60 minutes.

2. For which cough is marshmallow used?

Marshmallow is traditionally used for a dry, irritating cough associated with throat irritation. According to the declaration, its constituents have a favourable effect on soothing cough.

3. Can I take it with medicines?

Yes, but with a time gap: the mucilage may delay the absorption of other medicines, so the EU monograph advises not taking it within ½ to 1 hour before or after other medicines.

4. Is the tea suitable for children?

The declaration provides a dose for children (one spoon of lukewarm tea every two hours). The EU monograph does not recommend marshmallow root for children under 3 years, so consult a paediatrician for small children.

Related products

• Zlatni čajevi Sage tea – sage tea from the same brand, often used for gargling an irritated throat
• Zlatni čajevi Chamomile tea – mild chamomile tea from the same brand
• Bronhoklir syrup for dry cough – a syrup option for dry cough when a ready-made form is preferred

See the full range in the category: Herbal teas