The high mallow plant symbolizes sweetness and calmness, which the Greeks already knew more than 2000 years ago. Hippocrates recommended it as an emollient and laxative herb, two properties that have been proven and are still used.
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High Mallow Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Malva silvestris L.
- Other Names – Mallow, cheeseflower, common mallow, country mallow.
- French – Mauve, fromageon.
- Spanish – Malva, malva real.
- Environment—It is common along roadsides and in wet fields all over Europe. It was naturalized in America, especially in the United States and Mexico.
- Description—This biennial plant of the Mauvaceae family grows from 20 to 70 cm high. Its bright purple flowers have five petals.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The flowers and leaves.
Common Mallow Healing Properties
The entire plant, especially its flowers and leaves, contains a lot of mucilage. The flowers have a coloring hydrosoluble substance of the anthocyanin type.
Mucilage gives this plant emollient and laxative properties. It covers the mucosa with a dense layer, thus protecting the membranes from irritative agents. The use of high mallow is recommended in the following cases:
- Chronic constipation is a non-aggressive laxative, lubricating the intestinal tract even in large doses. It is particularly recommended for children and older people.
- Respiratory afflictions – It has antitussive and expectorant properties, thus being prescribed for colds, influenza, bronchitis, irritative or dry cough, and asthma.
- Afflictions of the skin and the mucosa – When applied locally, it helps heal pharyngitis, vaginitis, anal and rectal inflammation, eczema, acne, furuncles, and as a rule, all superficial irritation.
How to use High Mallow
- Infusion or decoction with 30 grams of flowers and leaves per liter of water. Drink three or four hot cups daily.
- Infusion or decoction – The same used internally, but slightly more concentrated, is also used externally in gargles, vaginal irrigation, enema, and compresses on the affected skin area.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the specific active compounds in high mallow that provide its benefits?
– Mucilage: A thick, gel-like substance that soothes and protects irritated tissues, primarily in the throat, digestive system, and skin.
– Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that fight cell damage and inflammation.
– Tannins: Compounds with astringent properties that are useful for topical applications.
– Small amounts of vitamins and minerals: Including vitamins A, C, and calcium.
Beyond soothing a cough or sore throat, what are other potential respiratory benefits?
– Expectorant effects: Some studies suggest mallow may help loosen mucus and clear airways, possibly beneficial for conditions like bronchitis (more research is needed).
– Anti-inflammatory: Mallow’s anti-inflammatory properties may provide additional support for easing respiratory discomfort.
How significant is high mallow’s support for gut health?
– Demulcent: Its mucilage content forms a protective coating on the digestive tract’s lining, potentially soothing inflammation in conditions like gastritis or ulcers.
– Mild laxative: May help with occasional constipation.
– Potential prebiotic: Further study is needed, but mucilage-like substances may promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Can high mallow play a role in skin health?
– Topical application: Traditional use includes poultices for minor wounds, burns, or eczema due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
– Antioxidant support: May help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Are there any documented interactions between high mallow and prescription medications?
– Potential absorption impact: The mucilage in mallow could slightly delay the absorption of some medications. It’s best to take mallow a couple of hours before medications for optimal effect.
– Consult your doctor: It is always essential to discuss the use of any herbs or supplements with your healthcare provider, especially if you take regular medications.
What research supports high mallow’s anti-inflammatory claims?
– Lab and animal studies: Demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects, reducing markers of inflammation (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6373224/).
– Human studies needed: More clinical trials are necessary to establish the full extent of mallow’s anti-inflammatory benefits in specific health conditions.
Are there benefits to using different parts of the high mallow plant?
Leaves and flowers: Most commonly used and contain the highest concentration of mucilage.
Roots are also used in traditional medicine, but research is more limited regarding their specific benefits.
What are the different ways to consume high mallow?
Are there any known side effects of high mallow?
Where can I find reliable sources of information about high mallow?
Reputable herbal databases:
– Natural Medicines Database (https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/
– WebMD (https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-192/mallow
– PubMed: For research studies https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
University-affiliated or government health websites
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 511. Print.
Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API