INTRODUCTION:
Khatmi (خطمی), scientifically known as Althaea officinalis, is an herb commonly known as Marsh Mallow, used in traditional medicine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. All parts of the plant contain mucilage, a gel-like substance that provides relief for respiratory issues like sore throats and dry coughs, digestive disorders, and skin irritations. It also has medicinal uses in Unani medicine for ailments like kidney stones, menstrual disorders, and as a gentle laxative.
English: Marshmallow plant, Marsh mallow
Arabic: خطمي (Khatmi), خبازى بريّة
Urdu: خطمی، خطمی بوٹی
Hindi: खटमी, गुलखैरा
Punjabi: ਖਟਮੀ, ਗੁਲਖੈਰਾ
Sanskrit: वातपत्री, कष्टसूत
Tamil: கஸ்தூரிகா
Malayalam: കസ്തൂരി
Kannada: ಹಾಲುಬೀಜ
Bengali: খাটমি, গুলখেরা
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Respiratory Health:
Khatmi is effective in easing sore throats and dry coughs due to its mucilaginous content.
Digestive Health:
It can be used to treat digestive issues such as heartburn, indigestion, and stomach ulcers.
Skin Conditions:
Its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties make it helpful for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and contact dermatitis.
Unani Medicine:
In Unani medicine, it’s traditionally used as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and for issues like menstrual disorders and kidney stones.
Radiologic Aid:
Marsh mallow extract may be used to aid in radiologic esophageal examinations.
Helps with Mouth and Gum Problems
Useful as a mouthwash or gargle for gum inflammation, canker sores, and toothaches.
Supports Heart Health
Some studies suggest it may help lower cholesterol levels.
Anti-inflammatory effects may support overall cardiovascular health.
Eases Joint Pain and Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties may help with arthritis and muscle pain when applied topically or taken as tea.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Gastrointestinal issues:
In some people, taking mallow may cause stomach problems such as nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion.
Bleeding risk:
Marshmallow, particularly the flower, might slow blood clotting, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
Allergic reactions:
As with any herb, there’s a possibility of an allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and nursing:
Marshmallow root may not be safe for pregnant or nursing individuals, so it’s best to avoid it.
HOW TO USE:
Khatmi Herbal Tea (for Cough, Throat, Digestion)
Ingredients:
1 tsp dried Khatmi root or leaves
1 cup hot (not boiling) water
Instructions:
Soak the dried herb in hot water.
Cover and let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
Strain and drink 1–2 times a day.
Benefits: Soothes sore throat, cough, acid reflux, and mild digestive irritation.
Cold Infusion (Best for Ulcers, Gastritis, Urinary Issues)
Ingredients:
1–2 tsp dried Khatmi root
1 cup cold water
Instructions:
Soak the root in cold water overnight (8–12 hours).
Strain and drink on an empty stomach.
Benefits: More mucilage is released in cold water, making it excellent for stomach and urinary tract healing.
Khatmi Syrup (for Cough & Throat Infections)
Ingredients:
1 tbsp Khatmi root
2 cups water
Honey (as needed)
Instructions:
Boil Khatmi root in water for 15–20 minutes.
Strain and mix with honey.
Take 1–2 tsp 2–3 times a day.
Benefits: Soothes dry cough, bronchitis, sore throat.
Khatmi Paste or Poultice (for Skin Irritation, Burns, Eczema)
Instructions:
Grind dried Khatmi leaves or root to a powder.
Mix with warm water to make a paste.
Apply on affected skin for 20–30 minutes.
Rinse with cool water.
Benefits: Reduces inflammation, soothes itching, promotes skin healing.
Capsules / Powder Form (General Use)
Khatmi root powder: ¼ to ½ tsp with warm water or honey, once or twice daily.
Available in herbal capsules for easy dosing.
Precautions:
Take Khatmi at least 1 hour apart from other medications, as it may reduce absorption.
Avoid excessive use without consulting an herbalist or doctor.
Always do a patch test before using it on skin.
