Malva sylvestris
Mallow
Malvaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Mallow
- Scientific name
- Malva sylvestris
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Region
- Europe
- Plant part
- Leaves, Flowers
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Insufficient
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
An erect perennial 30-120 cm tall with rounded lobed palmate leaves and clusters of pinkish-purple five-petalled flowers with darker vein stripes; the leaves and flowers are the part used.
Also known as: Common Mallow, Cheeseweed, High Mallow
Historical Background
Mallow has been a soothing herb of European and Mediterranean gardens since antiquity, praised by Dioscorides and Pliny as a gentle demulcent for throats and digestion. Its soft leaves and pink-purple flowers brew into a mild, mucilaginous cup long prized for comfort.
Earliest recorded uses: European and Mediterranean medicine since antiquity; a soothing demulcent praised by Dioscorides and Pliny.
Traditional preparations:
- Leaf-flower infusion
- Soothing throat tea
- Cold infusion for delicate mucilage
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Traditional European Herbalism
Soothing demulcent for throat, chest, and digestion.
Modern Herbalism
Gentle demulcent and skin-soothing tea.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Mild, green, slightly sweet, mucilaginous
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Mallow has a long tradition as a soothing demulcent for throat and digestion. Clinical evidence is insufficient; its mucilage provides comfort, but it is not a treatment for cough, sore throat, GERD, or any disease, and may slow medication absorption.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026