Mallow
Other names for Mallow
blue malva
blue malva flower powder
blue malva, powder
certified organic malva (malva sylvestris) dried flower liquid extract
cheeseplant herb
high mallow
high mallow leaf extract
high mallow leaf freeze-dried extract
mallow
mallow flower glycerite liquid extract
mallow flower, leaf extract, powder
mallow glycerite liquid extract
mallow leaf extract
mallow leaf extract, powder
mallow (malva neglecta) aerial parts extract
mallow, wild
malva
malva flower extract, dry
malva leaf extract, dry
malva sylvestris
malva sylvestris extract
malva sylvestris flower extract, dry
malva sylvestris flower extract, powder
malva sylvestris leaf extract
malva sylvestris leaf extract, dry
malva sylvestris leaf extract, powder
organic high mallow
organic high mallow (malva sylvestris) leaf freeze-dried extract
sida acuta
whorled mallow seed extract
wildcrafted malva extract
wildcrafted malva (malva sylvestris) dried leaf liquid extract
Chinese Mallow
Indian mallow
Synopsis of Mallow
History
Mallow (Malva sylvestris) has a long-standing reputation in traditional medicine, valued for its gentle yet effective properties. Dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times, mallow leaves and flowers were employed to soothe a variety of ailments. Renowned physicians such as Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder documented its use as a remedy for inflammation, digestive discomfort, and skin irritations. The plant’s mucilaginous texture, rich in soothing polysaccharides, made it especially prized for calming sore throats, dry coughs, and irritated mucous membranes.
Historically, mallow was often made into poultices to relieve skin wounds, burns, and insect bites thanks to its emollient and anti-inflammatory effects. Infusions and teas brewed from its leaves or flowers served as gentle remedies for bladder, kidney, and respiratory issues. The mild laxative action of mallow also contributed to its use in easing digestive complaints such as constipation and gastritis.
In herbal combinations, mallow shines as a harmonizing ingredient. It is commonly blended with herbs like marshmallow root, licorice, and elderflower to amplify soothing and expectorant actions, especially in respiratory formulas. Its compatibility with other botanicals enhances the overall balance and gentleness of herbal remedies, making them suitable for sensitive individuals and children. Modern herbalists continue to value mallow for its remarkable ability to calm inflammation, support mucous membrane health, and promote overall wellness. Its enduring legacy in natural medicine highlights mallow’s generous contributions to both traditional and contemporary herbal practice.
Traditional and scientific validation
Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is a traditional herb valued for centuries in various cultures for its purported health benefits. Historical records indicate its use in ancient Greek and Roman medicine, primarily for soothing respiratory and digestive complaints, as well as for its anti-inflammatory and emollient properties. The leaves and flowers are rich in mucilage, a gel-like substance believed to coat and protect mucous membranes, contributing to its traditional applications in treating sore throats and coughs.
Modern scientific exploration has begun to validate some of these uses. Laboratory and animal studies suggest that extracts of mallow possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. For example, research has identified flavonoids, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds in mallow, which may account for these bioactivities. Small-scale clinical studies have explored its benefits in mild respiratory and gastrointestinal discomfort, showing potential soothing effects, although results are preliminary.
While comprehensive, large-scale human trials are still lacking, the existing evidence supports the traditional view of mallow as a gentle, supportive ingredient in nutritional products. Its safety profile is generally favorable, with few reported adverse effects when used appropriately. Continued scientific research is necessary to fully establish its efficacy and uncover the mechanisms behind its health-promoting properties. Nevertheless, mallow remains a promising natural component, appreciated both for its historical significance and its emerging role in holistic wellness.
Mallow is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Abscesses (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Belching (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Congestion (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Eyes (red or itching) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Labor and Delivery (Traditional)
Laryngitis (Traditional)
Leucorrhea (Traditional)
Mallow is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
