Is marshmallow good when sick? Unpacking the difference between the herb and the candy

January 7, 2026 •

3 min read

The medicinal marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) was used for centuries to create remedies for sore throats and coughs. So, is marshmallow good when sick? The answer hinges on whether you are referring to the traditional herbal remedy or the modern-day confectionery, as they offer vastly different effects during illness.

Quick Summary

The medicinal benefits of marshmallow root should not be confused with marshmallow candy, which is mostly sugar and offers no therapeutic value for illness. Herbal marshmallow root contains mucilage that coats and soothes irritated throats and respiratory passages. Store-bought candy, conversely, is high in sugar and provides little to no health benefit when sick.

Key Points

Marshmallow Root vs. Candy: The health benefits associated with marshmallows pertain to the root of the Althaea officinalis plant, not the modern, sugary confection.
Soothing Mucilage: Marshmallow root's medicinal effect comes from mucilage, which coats and protects irritated throats and digestive linings, easing dry coughs and sore throats.
High Sugar Content: Store-bought marshmallows are high in sugar, which can suppress immune function and potentially increase inflammation, hindering recovery.
Better Alternatives: For relief when sick, opt for warm herbal teas with honey, broths, and other hydrating, low-sugar foods.
Consult a Doctor: Always talk to a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, as marshmallow root can interfere with the absorption of oral medications.
Soft Food Comfort: Any temporary relief from candy is due to its soft, easy-to-swallow texture, an effect that can be achieved with more nutritious soft foods.

Separating Marshmallow Root from Marshmallow Candy

When people ask, "Is marshmallow good when sick?", they are often thinking of the puffy, sugary treat. This common confusion stems from the candy's origins, which once included extracts from the marshmallow plant. Modern marshmallows, however, are made from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, and contain none of the medicinal compounds found in the original herb. This distinction is critical for anyone seeking relief from illness. While the soft texture of a candy may provide momentary comfort for a sore throat, its high sugar content can be counterproductive to recovery.

The Proven Benefits of Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root, derived from the Althaea officinalis plant, is known for its high mucilage content. Mucilage is a gel-like substance that provides several therapeutic effects when ingested, particularly for respiratory and digestive ailments.

Throat and Cough Soother: When prepared as a tea, syrup, or lozenge, the mucilage coats the throat and respiratory tract. This protective layer soothes irritation and reduces the urge to cough, offering relief for dry coughs and sore throats.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Marshmallow root possesses anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce pain and swelling in the body's mucous membranes.
Digestive Aid: Beyond respiratory issues, marshmallow root can calm the stomach and intestines. Its mucilage can relieve irritation from conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, and inflammatory bowel issues by coating the digestive tract lining.

To make a soothing tea, you can infuse dried marshmallow root in cold water for several hours or overnight to extract the mucilage effectively.

The Downside of Marshmallow Candy When Sick

In stark contrast to its herbal predecessor, marshmallow candy offers no meaningful health benefits when you're sick. Its primary components are sugar and corn syrup, which can negatively impact the body during an illness.

High Sugar Content: Consuming excessive sugar can suppress the immune system and increase inflammation in the body, potentially prolonging your illness.
Blood Sugar Spike: High sugar intake leads to blood sugar spikes, which the body must regulate. During an illness, the body is already under stress and may struggle to manage this increase, especially for those with diabetes.
Lack of Nutrients: Marshmallow candy is essentially empty calories, providing no beneficial vitamins, minerals, or fiber that your body needs to fight off an infection and recover.

While the sticky, soft texture might feel good momentarily on a sore throat, this is a minor, temporary relief that does not address the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Comparison Table: Marshmallow Root vs. Marshmallow Candy


Feature	Marshmallow Root	Marshmallow Candy
Origin	Derived from the Althaea officinalis plant.	Industrially produced from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin.
Key Ingredient	Mucilage, a gel-like substance that coats membranes.	Sugar and corn syrup.
Medicinal Properties	Soothing, anti-inflammatory, cough suppressant.	None; provides only a temporary, minor soothing sensation.
Effect When Sick	Can provide real relief for sore throats, dry coughs, and digestive upset.	Can increase inflammation and blood sugar, potentially prolonging sickness.
Best Form for Use	Tea, tincture, or lozenge.	Occasional treat, not for medicinal use.

Better Alternatives and Considerations When Sick

Instead of turning to sugary candy, consider these effective and healthy alternatives for managing symptoms:

Warm Herbal Teas: Herbal teas containing ingredients like honey, ginger, or lemon are excellent for staying hydrated and providing relief.
Soft, Easy-to-Digest Foods: Foods that are gentle on the stomach and easy to swallow, such as soups, broths, and yogurt, are ideal for recovery.
Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for flushing out toxins and maintaining overall body function when sick.
Throat Lozenges: Use lozenges specifically designed to soothe sore throats. Some products may contain marshmallow root or other helpful compounds.

This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially if you take other medications, as marshmallow root can interfere with the absorption of oral drugs. You can learn more about managing illness from reliable sources like Everyday Health.

Conclusion

In summary, the notion that marshmallow candy is a good remedy when sick is a misconception rooted in a historical association with the medicinal marshmallow plant. While marshmallow root preparations can offer genuine soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits for respiratory and digestive issues, modern marshmallows are a sugary treat with no therapeutic value. For effective relief, stick to proven home remedies and consider herbal preparations of marshmallow root, always after consulting a healthcare professional to ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marshmallow root comes from the Althaea officinalis plant and contains a healing, gel-like substance called mucilage. Marshmallow candy is an industrial confection made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, with no medicinal properties.

No, marshmallow candy does not help a sore throat. While the soft texture may feel mildly soothing, its high sugar content can increase inflammation and hinder your body's immune response.

High sugar intake can negatively affect your immune system and increase inflammation in the body. When your body is fighting an infection, it needs nutrients, not empty calories, to recover effectively.

Marshmallow root is typically used in the form of a tea, tincture, or lozenge. These preparations allow the mucilage to coat the throat and provide a soothing effect. Always follow preparation instructions carefully.

Effective alternatives include warm herbal teas with honey, gargling with salt water, and consuming soft, hydrating foods like soups and broths.

Yes, marshmallow root can potentially interfere with the absorption of other oral medications. It's recommended to take marshmallow root at least one hour after taking other medications to avoid any interactions.

Some studies and historical use suggest marshmallow root may help with cough and sore throat symptoms by forming a protective film. However, more extensive modern human research is still needed to confirm its efficacy conclusively.