Plant Name
Malva neglecta Wallr.
Botanical Info
Plant: Annual. Height: 60 cm.
Geography:
Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan Habitat of the herb: Waste and cultivated ground, usually on dry soils, frequently in coastal habitats, a weed on cultivated grounds.
Chemical Content
In a plant: tannins and mucous substances; in the leaves- vitamin C (200 mg%), tocopherol, carotene. The seeds contain about 17.7% of fatty oils.
Traditional Use and Activity
All parts of the plant are antiphlogistic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, laxative, salve. The leaves and flowers are edible and with roots are used in herbal teas. The leaves and flowers are the main parts used, their demulcent properties make them good poultice for bruising, inflammations, insect bites etc. When taken internally, the plant is used for the treatment of respiratory system diseases or inflammation of the digestive or urinary systems. The plant is an excellent laxative for young children.