Althaea.

The root of Althaea officinalis.

Therapeutic Action.—Marsh Mallows is diuretic and demulcent. As a diuretic it may be employed in nephritis, cystitis, or other inflammatory affections of the urinary organs. It increases the secretion of urine, and exerts its demulcent influence upon all parts of the urinary mucous membrane. We have administered it with much success in acute cystitis, and to relieve the ardor-urinae of gonorrhoea. It is also a favorite remedy in strangury especially when caused by the action of cantharides. It is employed with advantage as a demulcent in inflammation of the fauces, tonsils, throat, and upper part of the larynx, and in coughs, hoarseness, etc.

The American Eclectic Materia Medica and Therapeutics, 1898, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.