MARSHMALLOW DRY PLANT

Bulk dried marshmallow plant for cosmetics

Dried marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) is a botanical raw material prized in natural cosmetics for its high content of emollient mucilage. This technical guide covers its botanical origin, composition relevant to formulation, and its main applications in skin and hair care products, aimed at cosmetic labs and artisan soap makers sourcing raw materials in bulk.

What is dried marshmallow plant?

Dried marshmallow plant is a perennial herb native to damp European habitats, whose aerial parts are dried and cut for use as a cosmetic raw material. Buyers often ask whether mallow and marshmallow are the same plant: while both belong to the Malvaceae family and share a similar mucilaginous texture, they are distinct botanical species, each with its own profile of active compounds.

Its cosmetic value comes from polysaccharide mucilage, tannins and flavonoids, along with vitamins A, B and C and minerals such as calcium, iron and zinc. This combination gives it emollient, soothing properties suited to extracts, cosmetic infusions and solid formulations for skin and hair care.

Main cosmetic uses of dried marshmallow plant

Emollient extracts and infusions. The dried plant is used as a base for decoctions and infusions later incorporated into creams, toners and lotions, contributing the mucilaginous fraction responsible for the soothing effect on skin.

Formulations for sensitive skin. Thanks to its emollient profile, it is a common raw material in calming cosmetics, helping reinforce comfort on dry or reactive skin.

Hair care. Added to hair masks and solid shampoos, marshmallow mucilage helps improve detangling and softness of the hair fibre.

Solid cosmetics and artisan soap making. Its dried, stable form makes it easy to use directly as a botanical ingredient in soaps, solid bars and powder blends, without requiring additional preservatives for the raw material itself.

EINECS: 283-486-6. INCI: MALVA SYLVESTRIS LEAF EXTRACT.