Blue Malva Flower Profile

Also known as- Malva sylvestris, Alcea rosea, Althaea rosea, Althea Rose, Hollyhock Flower, Malvae arboreae flos, Malva, Malva Flower, Rose Mallow

Introduction

The blue mallow is robust plant of prairies and pastures growing 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) high and bearing bluish-purple blossoms of five petals. Grazing animals tend to avoid the plant because it becomes a gluey mass when it is chewed. Humans, however, have used blue malva leaves and flowers as thickening agents for soups and stews for hundreds of years.

Constituents

Mucilage, tannins, and antioxidant anthocyanins including delphinidin and malvidin. Malva flowers contain more mucilage than malva (mallow) leaf.

Parts Used

Dried flowers.

Typical Preparations

Traditionally used as a tea sweetened with honey; also used in herbal teas.

Summary

The mucilages in blue malva flowers soothe sore throat caused by coughs and colds. Poultices of blue mallow flowers are also used to disinfect wounds. A complex polysaccharide in the herb known as arabinogalactose may have immune-stimulant properties.

Precautions

Avoid if you have gallstones.

 

For educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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