Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial species native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The plant is popularly known for its use in making marshmallow treats, a confection that dates back to ancient Egyptian times. Besides its culinary use, Marshmallow has been traditionally used in herbal medicine due to its supposed healing properties. The German Commission E Monographs has approved the herb for the irritation of mouth and throat, including dry cough/bronchitis. The leaves, flowers, and root of Marshmallow are purported to have medicinal benefits for mucous membrane-related irritation relief. The plant's roots are also occasionally used as a flavoring agent in a Middle Eastern snack named halva. Marshmallow's long tapering roots are thick and pliant, and it produces velvety leaves and small pale-pink flowers. Marshmallow is a useful household medicinal herb with a name derived from the Greek word ἄλθειν, meaning "to heal."