Marshmallow root is a mucilaginous herb with a cooling and soothing nature used for ulcers, colitis, gastritis, and urinary inflammation or cystitis. The root has shown a mild immune-activating effect in laboratory tests, and it is taken for dry coughs and lung inflammation or dryness. Its antiinflammatory properties also make marshmallow useful as a mouthwash. Marshmallow root is often added to other warmer and more active herbs to moderate their harshness, especially for urinary tract and upper respiratory tract infections.