Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Malva sylvestris (common mallow) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, primarily in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Its flowers and leaves have been used for their soothing, anti-inflammatory, and mild analgesic properties. In the context of headache, especially tension-type headaches, traditional texts and ethnobotanical surveys occasionally mention the use of Malva sylvestris as a calming herbal tea or poultice. The rationale is often attributed to its general relaxing effects, potential to reduce inflammation, and its demulcent action, which soothes mucous membranes and can provide a sense of relief.

However, there is little to no direct scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Malva sylvestris specifically for tension headache. Most available research focuses on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mucoprotective effects, rather than on pain relief or headache treatment. No clinical trials or pharmacological studies have established its effect on headache mechanisms. Therefore, its use for tension headache is primarily rooted in traditional practice, and the evidence supporting it is weak, mostly anecdotal, and not validated by modern scientific studies.

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