Althaea officinalis extracts have antibacterial,[1][2] antioxidant,[3][4][5][2][6] and anti-inflammatory properties,[3][4] but most of the supporting evidence for these effects is derived from cell culture (in vitro) experiments. Some of these properties have been confirmed in animal models,[2][7][8][9][10] and other animal studies find that extracts from Althaea officinalis can treat wounds,[11][9] infertility,[2] and stomach ulcers.[7][8] Unfortunately, these effects have yet to be explored in humans.
In some animal models of respiratory disease, extracts from Althaea officinalis also have antitussive effects (i.e., they suppress coughing).[12][13][14] While some evidence supports this claim in humans,[15][16][17][18][19] the quality of the current clinical evidence is low and some of the studies are published by product manufacturers.[16][17] Furthermore, sometimes the specific effect of Althaea officinalis cannot be determined because extracts are combined with other plant extracts.[19] Therefore, further high quality independent randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the effect of Althaea officinalis on coughing, and to support its other claimed benefits.