Marshmallow Marshmallow A marshmallow is a sugar-based confectionery that in its modern form typically consists of sugar, water and gelatin whipped to a squishy consistency, molded into small cylindrical pieces, and coated with corn starch. Some marshmallow recipes call for eggs. This is the modern version of a medicinal confection made from "Althaea officinalis", the marshmallow plant. The word "marshmallow" comes from the mallow plant species ("Althaea officinalis"), an herb native to parts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia which grows in marshes and other damp areas. The plant's stem and leaves are fleshy and its white flower has five petals.
Laricifomes officinalis ("Larix"). Conservation of wild populations of "L. officinalis" is a concern because of loss of ancient forest habitat. Because it is difficult to maintain long-term genetic integrity of laboratory-grown strains, it is necessary to preserve the mushroom in the wild. "Laricifomes officinalis" was important both medicinally and spiritually to indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America, such as the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. "L. officinalis" was referred to as the "bread of ghosts" in local languages, and carved fruiting bodies marked the graves of tribal shamans. Laricifomes officinalis Laricifomes officinalis is a wood-decay fungus in the order