By: Hello Doctor
By: Hello Doctor
Mallow is a plant that can be easily found in the wild and is characterized by its purple flowers.
For centuries, its flowers, leaves and mucilage (plant substance viscose) have been used medicinally. Find out here which ones, what they are due to and how to take advantage of it.
Mallow ( Malva sylvestris ) is a plant belonging to the family Malvaceae . Although it is native to Europe, it is widespread throughout the world, to the point that it is common to find it in fields or wastelands. It is characterized by measuring between 3 and 4 feet tall (90 to 120 cm) and have striking purple flowers.
It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, because it is rich in different beneficial biochemical components, such as tannins, vitamins, especially A, B and C, and minerals, such as calcium, iron and magnesium.
As with many herbs, mallow has a long medicinal tradition. Generally, its benefits are obtained by drinking it as an infusion, although it is also used topically:
One of the common uses of mallow to relieve pain and accelerate recovery from wounds. According to the available evidence, this is due to the fact that it has compounds with analgesic properties.
Traditional medicine promotes the use of its leaves in the form of a poultice on the affected area, although it is also common to drink it as an infusion to relieve joint pain.
Anti-inflammatory
Continuing with the beneficial effects of mallow on the skin, there are studies that found that this plant has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is common to use it against insect bites, bruises, sunburns or skin rashes.
A very popular home remedy that is prepared with mallow seeds and leaves serves to improve digestion. on. Hot water should only be poured over a handful of seeds, leaves, or both, let it rest and then strain.
Drink at room temperature to obtain a mild laxative effect and combat conditions gastrointestinal, such as heartburn, ulcers or constipation, or relieve any tension in the digestive organs.
Mallow infusions, extracts or supplements seem to be useful to reinforce the defenses . Although there is not enough evidence to support this benefit, it is believed that, due to the presence of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, it can stimulate the function of the immune system, preventing infections, especially bacterial.
Also often used against chest congestion or other respiratory conditions (such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis and bronchitis,) since it promotes expectoration, helps to clear the airways, and relieves discomfort in the throat.
Although there is no research that has delved into these effects , from natural medicine it is common to use the mauve for:
You can take advantage of the benefits of mallow by taking it regularly as an infusion. Preparing this drink is very simple:
You can also opt for topical use, applying it as a poultice on the affected areas. To do this, you must:
Finally, you can resort to mallow extracts or supplements. This can be found at any online shopping site or health food stores. However, the recommendation and supervision of a health professional is advised before using this type of product.
Until significant scientific evidence from human trials is available, people interested in using herbal therapies and supplements should exercise extreme caution.
Do not abandon or modify your medications or treatments, first talk to your doctor about the potential effects of alternative or complementary therapies.
Remember, the medicinal properties of herbs and supplements can also interact with prescription drugs, other herbs and supplements, and even alter your diet.
Sources consulted: Comprehensive Natural Drug Database, US National Library of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, National Institute of Medicine Complementary and Alternative.