A member of the hibiscus family, marshmallow root was originally used in traditional Greek medicine, then later in Ayurvedic medicine. Its botanical name, althaea officinalis, is derived from Greek meaning "to cure." Common names include Althea Root, Sweet Weed and Marsh Mallow. Marshmallow root is a perennial native to Europe but now also found in the western United States. It is often discovered along riverbanks, roadsides and other marshy places. The plant grows to about five feet and bears a light red, white or purple hibiscus-like flower. All parts of the plant have been used for herbal remedies, cosmetics, cooking, and decoration. Historically Used to Soothe, Cool and Comfort Throats Used for centuries to soothe teething babies and cool throats, today we know that Marshmallow Root contains naturally occurring trace amounts of polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids, zinc, B-vitamins, beta-carotene, calcium, vitamin C and more. It is often an ingredient in cough syrups.