4. Protection from Gastric Reflux
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, occurs in the lower esophageal sphincter. Patients who suffer from the effects of GERD experience a loss in the proper function of the sphincter, allowing stomach acids to enter the lower esophageal chamber.
Stomach acids are harsh on the esophageal lining, producing symptoms of heartburn and chest pain. Some patients may find they experience an exacerbation in symptoms when lying down. IF left undiagnosed and untreated, continued exposure of the esophageal lining to stomach acids may result in the development of a condition known as, “Barret’s esophagus,” where the stomach lining starts to grow on the lower esophagus.
Patients who are suffering from the effects of GERD can drink marshmallow tea with their meals to prevent or reduce the intensity of symptoms associated with their condition. Patients can also mix the raw powder into food and eat it. Research shows that direct contact with the esophageal lining increases the absorption of the polyphenols found in marshmallow root powder.