Malva (Malva sylvestris)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Malvaceae
• Common Names: Common Mallow, High Mallow, Cheeseweed
• Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, roots

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Description

Malva sylvestris is a hardy, flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its soothing, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for respiratory, digestive, and skin health.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European herbalism for respiratory and digestive health.
• Employed as a soothing remedy for coughs, sore throats, and bronchial irritation.
• Traditionally applied to wounds, burns, and skin conditions to promote healing.
• Taken as a gentle laxative and digestive tonic.

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Constituents

• Mucilage
• Flavonoids
• Anthocyanins
• Tannins
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Demulcent
• Emollient
• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Mild laxative
• Astringent

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Mallow is traditionally used to relieve coughs, bronchitis, and throat irritation due to its mucilage content.

2. Digestive Support:
Acts as a soothing agent for acid reflux, gastritis, and constipation.

3. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally to burns, rashes, ulcers, and insect bites to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

4. Urinary Tract and Bladder Health:
Used to soothe irritation and inflammation in urinary infections.

5. Eye and Oral Health:
Infusions have been used as a gentle eyewash and as a mouth rinse for gum inflammation.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves or flowers per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to three times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds and inflamed skin.

Maceration (Cold Infusion):

• Soak dried plant material in cold water for several hours to extract mucilage for soothing benefits.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe but consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Allergic Reactions: Those with sensitivities to plants in the Malvaceae family should use with caution.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: The mucilage may affect glucose absorption; diabetic individuals should monitor usage.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports respiratory, digestive, and skin health.
• Traditional European Folk Medicine: Used as a soothing, protective herb for irritated mucous membranes.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Kapha.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and licorice.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with marshmallow root and slippery elm.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in late spring and summer when in full bloom.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Malva sylvestris’s anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and wound-healing properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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Mallow remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for soothing the respiratory tract, digestive system, and skin.