Althaea officinalis times of scarcity consequent upon the failure of the crops, this plant, which grows there in great abundance, is collected heavily as a foodstuff. The leaves, flowers and the root of "A. officinalis" (marshmallow) have been used in traditional herbal medicine. This use is reflected in the name of the genus, which comes from the Greek (""), meaning "to heal." Marshmallow was traditionally used as relief for irritation of mucous membranes, including use as a gargle for mouth and throat ulcers and gastric ulcers. The flowers and young leaves can be eaten, and are often added to salads or are
Saponaria officinalis a lather when in contact with water. The epithet "officinalis" indicates its medicinal functions. It is a common host plant for some adult moth species, including the white-lined sphinx. "Saponaria officinalis" native range extends throughout Europe, and in Asia to western Siberia. It grows in cool places at low or moderate elevations under hedgerows and along the shoulders of roadways. It can be found in much of North America. The plants possesses leafy, unbranched stems (often tinged with red). It grows in patches, attaining a height of . The broad, lanceolate, sessile leaves are opposite and between 4 and 12