This perennial herb has soft leaves, beautiful hibiscus-like white and pink flowers, and provides a healing herbal medicine. Marshmallow roots are the original source of the slimy mucilage used in the traditional recipe for marshmallow candies. The whole plant – roots, leaves, and flowers – makes a very soothing tea for sore throats and irritated tissues. We dry the roots in fall and make a cold infusion of the dried roots whenever we need it for colds, allergies, and dry skin. This herb is safe for kids and nursing moms as well.