15 Benefits of Common Mallow
Common mallow, or Malva sylvestris, is a medicinal plant known for its many therapeutic virtues. Used since ancient times in various medicinal traditions, it offers a multitude of health benefits. Here are 15 notable benefits of common mallow:
Softening properties: The leaves and flowers of mallow are rich in mucilages, substances that help soften and soothe irritated tissues, particularly in the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Cough relief: Thanks to its emollient properties, mallow is often used to calm coughs and throat irritations.
Improved digestion: The mucilages present in mallow facilitate digestion by forming a protective gel that soothes the gastrointestinal mucous membranes.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Mallow helps reduce inflammation, making it useful for treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or irritations.
Skin hydration: When used externally, mallow moisturizes and soothes dry or irritated skin.
Prevention of urinary tract infections: Mallow has diuretic properties that help cleanse the urinary tract and prevent infections.
Strengthening the immune system: Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, mallow helps strengthen the immune system.
Treatment of constipation: The mild laxative properties of mallow help relieve constipation, especially in children.
Relief of menstrual pain: Mallow is used to relieve cramps and pain associated with the menstrual cycle.
Protection against gastric ulcers: The soothing properties of mallow can help protect against gastric ulcers by coating the lining of the stomach.
Lactation support: Some traditions use mallow to increase milk production in breastfeeding women.
Antioxidant effect: Mallow helps fight damage caused by free radicals, thus protecting cells from premature aging.
Hemorrhoid treatment: The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of mallow can also be beneficial in the treatment of hemorrhoids.
Eye care: In compresses, mallow infusion can help relieve eye irritation and fatigue.
Detoxification: By promoting diuresis, mallow helps eliminate toxins from the body, participating in the general detoxification of the body.
These multiple benefits make common mallow a valuable plant in natural pharmacopoeia. As with any remedy, it is recommended to consult a health professional before starting a treatment with mallow, especially if you are already taking other medications or if you have specific medical conditions.