COMMON MALLOW - MALVA SYLVESTRIS
COMMON MALLOW - MALVA SYLVESTRIS
Local name: ბალბა
Where to find it: Apkhazia; Samtskhe-Javakheti
Terrain: roadsides, in fields, and in waste areas
Description:
Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris) is a recognizable herbaceous plant with broad, heart-shaped leaves featuring noticeable toothed edges. Growing upright to a height of approximately 60 to 90 centimeters, it showcases vibrant flowers in shades of pink, lavender, or purple, arranged in clusters each about 2.5 to 5 centimeters wide. As it matures, Common Mallow produces flat, disk-shaped fruits resembling small cheese wheels.
Usable parts: Leaves; Roots; Flowers
Medicinal properties:
Mucilage Content: One of the key features of Common Mallow is its mucilage content, a gel-like substance found in the leaves and roots. Mucilage is known for its demulcent properties, which means it may have a soothing effect on mucous membranes, such as the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Respiratory Support: Infusions or teas made from Common Mallow leaves have been historically used to potentially alleviate irritation in the respiratory system. The mucilage content is believed to coat and soothe irritated tissues, providing relief for conditions like coughs or throat irritation.
Digestive Comfort: Common Mallow’s is believed to have a mild laxative effect and may help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Common Mallow may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it potentially beneficial for conditions involving inflammation, such as skin irritations or minor wounds.
External Uses: The plant has been used externally as well. Poultices made from crushed leaves or flowers have been applied to the skin to soothe minor irritations, wounds, or insect bites.
Preparation:
Leaves: collect fresh leaves, rinse, and steep in hot water for about 10 minutes. Strain and drink the tea.
Flowers: Infuse the flowers in hot water to create a tea. This tea may be consumed for its reputed soothing effects, particularly on mucous membranes.
Roots: For medicinal tea, harvest roots in the fall or early spring, scrub them to remove dirt, and allow them to air dry. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried, chopped roots in hot water for about 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink the tea.
Harvest time:
Leaves and Flowers: in the spring and early summer;
Roots: in the fall or early spring.
Harvest method:
Harvesting Leaves: Choose young, tender leaves without pests. Use clean scissors to cut close to the base, favoring outer leaves.
Harvesting Flowers: Pick fully open, pest-free flowers. Gently pluck from the stem in spring and early summer during blooming.
Harvesting Roots: dig roots from mature plants using a garden fork.
Conservation:
Preserving Leaves: freeze them or air-dry. Frozen leaves are perfect for smoothies or cooked dishes, maintaining their nutritional value. Dried leaves, stored in a cool, dark place, are great for making flavorful herbal teas.
Preserving Flowers: dry them in a cool, dark spot and store them in airtight containers to maintain their quality. Dried flowers can be used in teas or as decorative additions to potpourri.
Preserving Roots: Air dry Common Mallow roots and store them in a cool, dark place. Dried roots can be used for making herbal infusions or decoctions, ensuring you have access to their potential benefits.
