Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mallow (Malva sylvestris and related species) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of abscesses and other inflammatory skin conditions. In traditional European, Middle Eastern, and Asian medicine, the leaves and flowers of mallow are often applied as poultices or compresses to abscesses, boils, and other localized infections. The primary rationale for this use lies in mallow’s mucilaginous content, which is believed to have soothing, demulcent, and mild anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce irritation and promote the maturation or drainage of abscesses.

While there is limited scientific research specifically addressing mallow’s efficacy in treating abscesses, some laboratory studies have identified mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in mallow extracts. However, these findings are preliminary and do not directly translate to clinical effectiveness in abscess management. Most modern references to mallow for abscesses still cite historical or ethnobotanical sources rather than rigorous clinical trials.

In summary, the use of mallow for abscesses is primarily justified by traditional practice, with only modest supporting evidence from laboratory studies and no robust clinical data. It should be considered a complementary approach rather than a primary treatment, and medical evaluation is necessary for abscesses to prevent complications.

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