Marshmallow lotion is lotion infused with the marshmallow herb. Both the leaves and the roots may either be steam distilled to extract the oils or pasted and added to a lotion base. This combination may be soothing to rashes, inflammation, dry skin, and healing wounds. It may also help keep skin pliable, soft, and young-looking. The herb is relatively mild, so the lotion may be used on children as long as the lotion base is not caustic or mixed with rubbing alcohol.
Herbal and holistic stores often sell creams and body care products infused with herbs, marshmallow lotion being one of the most popular. Its multitude of benefits make it favorable for everyday use, as well as for use in fading scars, evening skin tone, and soothing irritations. Most kinds of marshmallow lotion do not cure skin ailments, they simply help the skin renew itself more quickly. The cooling effects of this herb may also neutralize itching and pain.
The marshmallow herb itself looks nothing like its namesake confection. The two share a name because of their flavor. The leaves and roots have a slightly sweet, mellow flavor akin to the popular candy. These small, white blossoms grow in clusters in marshy areas and may be made into lotions in a variety of ways.
Making one type of marshmallow lotion involves simply mixing a spoonful or two of marshmallow extract into an existing skin cream. Another type involves mixing the same extract into a melted mix of aloe vera extract and some kind of skin butter, like shea or cocoa. When the mixture cools, it should be solid, but soft enough to dent with a finger.
Yet one more method for making marshmallow lotion can be accomplished with the bruised and pulverized leaves and roots. These may be chopped into small pieces, then tamped and crushed with the back of a spoon or a mortar and pestle. The resulting greenish-brown paste may be used just as the extract above.
One more kind of marshmallow lotion is actually a wash for especially sensitive skin. Those that can’t tolerate any chemicals or preservatives can simply steep the pasted herb in a small amount of water for about 10 minutes. Ideally, the herbs will soak up enough water to create a spreadable substance. The user may spread this over the affected area and let it dry, much like a facial mask. The paste can then be rinsed away with cool water.