Mallow Flower Tea: Scientific Benefits for Peptic Ulcers, Constipation, COVID-19, and Detoxification; Traditional Uses as a Cough Suppressant, Expectorant, Laxative, and More

Common Name: Mallow, High Mallow

Scientific Name: Malva sylvestris L.

History and Origin

Mallow is a biennial or perennial and herbaceous plant from the Malvaceae family. ⁽¹⁾ Mallow has been grown as a medicinal plant and pot herb since Roman times. ⁽²⁾ It is native to Europe, North Africa and Asia. ⁽³⁾ Today the plant can be found in subtropical and temperate parts of the world. ⁽⁴⁾ Mallow generally grows in moist areas, for instance, near marshes, ditches, oceans, riverbanks, and meadows. ⁽¹⁾ Pollination by various flies is critical for the survival and propagation of mallow. ⁽⁵⁾ Many people consider mallow as a weed. ⁽³⁾ However, it is commonly recognized as a medicinal plant in Europe, Iran, Pakistan and India. ⁽¹⁾ The medicinal parts are the dried flowers, the dried leaves and the whole of the flowering fresh plant. ⁽⁴⁾

Mallow Plant Structure

Mallow (or high mallow) is a biennial or perennial leafy herb 0.3 to 1.2 m high. ⁽⁴⁾ It has delicious annual stem. ⁽⁵⁾ The stems are branched, slightly woody and roughly pubescent. ⁽⁴⁾ Mallow is a leafy herb. ⁽⁴⁾ The leaves are big, spherical, velvety, ⁽⁵⁾ long-petioled, 5-lobed and crenate-serrate. ⁽⁴⁾ They are 5-10 cm wide and are green even when dried. ⁽⁵⁾ Mallow blooms in late spring. ⁽⁶⁾ The plant has bright purple flowers which have long dark stripes, 5 petals, ⁽⁴⁾ and are more or less odorless. ⁽⁵⁾ The dried mallow flowers are purplish-blue. ⁽⁷⁾

Mallow Health Benefits

1. Alleviating Peptic Ulcer Disease

A 2009 study explored the effects of mallow aerial part extract on gastric ulcers and inflammation in rats. The research revealed that the plant's aqueous extract provided significant anti-inflammatory effects and protection against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers without causing liver toxicity. ⁽²⁾ The beneficial effects on ulcers were likely attributed to the plant's high mucilage content, which may help soothe and protect the stomach lining. ⁽⁶⁾

2. Relieving Constipation

A 2015 study investigated the effects of mallow flower aqueous extract on relieving constipation in adults with functional constipation. Participants who used the mallow extract for four weeks experienced noticeable improvements, including increased bowel movements and softer stools. The findings showed that the extract helped reduce common constipation symptoms, making it a natural and effective remedy for improving digestion and bowel health. ⁽⁸⁾

3. Increasing Antioxidant Activity

A 2009 study explored the antioxidant effects of the mallow plant, also known as common mallow. The research found that the aqueous extract from aerial parts of the plant, including its flowers, have strong antioxidant properties, meaning they help protect the body from harmful molecules called free radicals. This makes it beneficial for overall health, as antioxidants play a key role in reducing the risk of various diseases. The study identified several natural compounds in the plant that contribute to these protective effects. Overall, mallow shows promise as a natural way to boost the body's defense against oxidative stress. ⁽⁹⁾

4. Improving Respiratory Tract Function

A 2022 study suggests that drinking an herbal tea containing mallow flowers may help improve respiratory health and reduce coughing. Research demonstrated the effectiveness of this herbal tea in alleviating symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough, indicating its potential as a complementary treatment for respiratory issues, including those resulting from illnesses like COVID-19. People who used the tea alongside their regular treatment experienced noticeable relief in their symptoms compared to those who only received standard care. ⁽¹⁰⁾

What Are Mallow Side Effects?

When taken by mouth: The use of mallow at the prescribed therapeutic doses has not shown any health risks or side effects so far. ⁽⁴⁾ The use of the plant's extract also seems safe for up to 4 weeks; however, it may cause stomach problems such as diarrhea, nausea, and indigestion in some individuals.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information to determine whether mallow is safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It’s advisable to avoid using it.
Children: Topical use of mallow is possibly safe for up to 4 weeks. However, there is not enough reliable information regarding its safety for oral consumption in children. ⁽¹¹⁾
Generally, every person may be allergic to certain herbs and spices. This sensitivity must be first diagnosed by the person and secondarily by the physician. However, these allergic reactions do not cause chronic or acute side effects, and after identifying the allergenic plant and removing it from the diet, allergy-related complications will be eliminated. No company or product can be aware of the allergic reactions of different bodies in advance. The body's incompatibility with one or more specific herbs rarely occurs, but consumers may encounter it anyway.

Mallow Daily Dosage

Daily Dosage: The average daily dose is 5 gm of mallow flower.

To prepare an infusion, use 1.5 to 2 gm of comminuted mallow flower. Drink it 2 to 3 times daily. ⁽⁴⁾

Bioactive Compounds

Mallow leaves and flowers contain various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, mucilages, terpenoids, phenol derivatives, coumarins, sterols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. ⁽¹²⁾
Mallow leaves and flowers contain high amounts of mucilage which is made up of complex carbohydrates and gives mallow most of its soothing activity, though flavonoids and anthocyanidins may also contribute. ⁽¹³⁾

Best Time to Consume

1-2 hours before or after meals.

Possible Drug Interactions

There is insufficient documented data to show the interactions of mallow with other drugs. ⁽¹⁴⁾However, it is possible for mallow to react with a few drugs. So, suppose you’re on any medication; discuss with your doctor if eating mallow will interfere with the medicines you are taking.

Traditional Use

✔The mallow is an important traditional medicinal plant, ⁽⁵⁾ and its temperament (Mizāj) is considered cold and moist. ⁽¹⁵⁾ It can be consumed as a soup, but the majority of people prefer to eat it in salads. ⁽⁵⁾

✔Traditionally, various parts of mallow have been used to treat gastrointestinal disturbance (constipation, gastritis, intestinal disorders, stomach ache, and protector of gastric mucous); dermatological ailments (wounds, burns, acne, skin eruptions, urticaria, abscesses, nail infections); hemorrhoidal inflammation; urological disorders (cystitis, bladder pains, prostate ailments, kidney pain and malfunction); respiratory complaints (pectoral emollient, cough, expectorant, spasmolytic and asthma, sore throat and respiratory infections, bronchitis, tonsillitis, mumps); pain (contusions and bruises, menstrual pains); oral diseases (toothache, gingival and mouth inflammation/abscesses, aphthous ulcers); vaginal disorders (infection and itching); as well as other uses such as an anti-anxiety and sedative agent, slimming, high blood pressure, and fever. ⁽³⁾

✔In Iran, various parts of the mallow plant are used as a cough suppressant, expectorant, lung cleanser, lubricant, anti-swelling, laxative, and immunomodulator.

✔In Pakistan, mallow leaves are used for their relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, as well as their beneficial effects on gastric mucosa, indigestion, and bladder ulcers.

✔In Algeria, its flower infusion is used as an antiseptic and softening and for the treatment of canker sores, colds, constipation, abdominal pain, asthma, insect bites, swelling, boils, and abscesses.

✔Indians use different parts of the whole plant for treatment of ulceration of the urinary bladder, cough, enlargement of the spleen, jaundice, sore throat, and weak eyesight.

✔Europe uses its aerial parts (including the stems, leaves, petioles, flowers, fruit, and seeds) to treat constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal colic.

✔Its leaf decoction or infusion is used to treat bronchitis, weight loss, colds, coughs, cystitis, and belly pain in Italy.

✔People in Lebanon use the leaves and flowers of the mallow plant to treat rheumatism and joint inflammation (such as osteoarthritis).

✔Syrians also use them as a laxative, mouthwash, and to treat respiratory infections and coughs. ⁽¹⁾

Some questions about Mallow

1. Is mallow the same as marshmallow?

No, marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) and mallow (Malva sylvestris) belong to different genera within the same family, Malvaceae. Marshmallow belongs to the genus Althaea, while mallow is part of the genus Malva. A key difference is that high mallow has a three-leaved epicalyx, which sets it apart from marshmallow. ⁽⁴⁾

2. What is mallow used for? / What is mallow flower use for?

Mallow has been used in traditional medicine for centuries across various cultures. People commonly employ mallow to soothe digestive issues like constipation, gastritis, and stomach aches, as well as to ease respiratory problems like coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. In many regions, mallow is applied to the skin to heal wounds, burns, and infections. It’s also used to reduce joint inflammation, relieve menstrual pain, and support bladder and kidney function. Additionally, mallow is appreciated for its calming effects, often acting as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.

Scientists have studied mallow flower for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Research indicates that its aqueous extract can protect the stomach lining from ulcers, alleviate constipation, improve respiratory health and reduce coughing, and defend the body against oxidative stress, making it a valuable natural option for both traditional and modern healthcare approaches.

3. Is mallow good for a cough?

The German regulatory agency of medicinal supplements, Commission E, has approved mallow for coughs, bronchitis, and inflammation of the mouth and pharynx. ⁽⁴⁾

4. Is Country Mallow good for skin?

Based on clinical studies, the topical application of the mallow is a safe and effective treatment for hand eczema and can serve as a suitable alternative to corticosteroids and antihistamines. ⁽¹³⁾ Additionally, a study on mice revealed that an aqueous extract from the mallow flower significantly speeds up skin wound healing compared to conventional treatments. This extract reduces inflammation and promotes skin regeneration, leading to faster healing with minimal fibrosis and scar formation. Overall, mallow flower extract presents a promising natural alternative for enhancing wound healing. ⁽¹⁶⁾