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.
Melissa (plant) is "Melissa officinalis", commonly known in the United States as lemon balm, and as balm in England. They are very frost hardy plants which prefer full sun or light shade if summers are hot. They are quick growing. "M. officinalis" has become naturalised in many parts of the world. Melissa (plant) Melissa is a genus of perennial herbs in the Lamiaceae, native to Europe and Asia but cultivated and naturalized in many other places. The name "Melissa" is derived from the Greek word "mélissa" meaning "honeybee", owing to the abundance of nectar in the flowers. The stems are square, like