Alcea rosea
Alcea rosea · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (6 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Alcea rosea, commonly known as hollyhock, is a versatile plant valued for its wide range of medicinal properties. Every part of the plant, including the flower, leaf, root, and seed, can be utilized to create beneficial preparations such as extracts or n-hexane fractions. Scientific studies highlight its significant antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, and demulcent activities. These biological traits make it effective in treating various conditions like inflammation, constipation, and poor blood circulation. Additionally, certain preparations are used to address specific concerns such as bedwetting.
- Synonyms
- Alcea Rosea Var. Alta · Alcea Rosea Var. Atra · 19 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Alcea rosea is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of names across different languages and regions. In English-speaking areas, it is widely known by the common names Black Hollyhock and Common hollyhock. Its identity shifts geographically, being referred to as Aukštoji piliarožė and Baštenski slez in certain contexts. Travelers might also encounter it under the Hungarian name Festőmályva. This variety of nomenclature highlights the global presence and cultural significance of this striking species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Alcea rosea is a taxonomically complex species that encompasses several botanical synonyms. It is frequently identified in historical texts as Alcea annua or Alcea cretica. Furthermore, the plant's classification includes specific variations such as Alcea biennis subsp. cretica and Alcea pallida subsp. cretica. Some botanical records also list the name Alcea microchiton as a synonym for this group. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification in diverse horticultural contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Alcea rosea is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further organized into the order Malvales, showcasing its evolutionary lineage. It finds its place within the family Malvaceae, a group known for many distinctive floral characteristics. Finally, its unique identity is defined by its membership in the genus Alcea.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Alcea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Alcea rosea exhibits a widespread distribution that spans across diverse regions of Africa and the Macaronesian islands. Its presence is particularly notable throughout the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Madeira. Within the African continent, the species is well-established across Northern Africa, finding suitable habitats in countries such as Algeria. Furthermore, its reach extends eastward into Egypt, demonstrating significant ecological adaptability. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied Mediterranean and subtropical climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Alcea rosea is a robust herb that stands firmly as a self-supporting plant in various garden settings. This species exhibits a significant range in stature, typically reaching a minimum height of 1 meter. For many established specimens, the growth often begins at a more substantial minimum of 1.785 meters. As these plants mature, they can extend their reach upward to a maximum height of 3 meters. Such impressive verticality makes them a striking architectural feature in any landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Alcea rosea is a versatile medicinal plant that possesses a wide range of significant biological activities. Research indicates that its extracts exhibit notable antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which are particularly effective when used in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates potent anticancer activity, specifically showing effectiveness against cervical cancer cell lines. Beyond these specialized functions, the flowers of the plant are traditionally valued for their demulcent and diuretic effects. These diverse pharmacological capabilities highlight the potential of Alcea rosea as a valuable resource for modern drug development.
Compounds
Conditions
Alcea rosea serves as a powerful medicinal agent that treats inflammation by utilizing various anti-inflammatory compounds. The plant also effectively treats NF-κB through the identification of specific inhibitors like flavonoids and phenolic acids. When used in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles, Alcea rosea extracts help treat bacterial infections by targeting Staphylococcus aureus and Shigella sonnei. Furthermore, the plant treats oxidative stress by modulating the antioxidant status in the liver and pancreas. These diverse biological activities highlight the significant pharmaceutical potential of the plant across multiple therapeutic applications.
Preparations
Alcea rosea is a key component of the traditional Mongolian medicine known as Zhanba. This plant is also prepared as a hydroalcoholic extract to treat kidney calculi and reduce urinary oxalate levels. Additionally, the plant is processed into an n-hexane fraction to identify various lipophilic compounds. These different preparations highlight the diverse medicinal applications of the species. Through these specific forms, Alcea rosea serves roles ranging from traditional herbal remedies to targeted pharmacological studies.
Parts used
Alcea rosea is a versatile medicinal plant that offers significant therapeutic potential through its various anatomical parts. Research indicates that its flowers possess potent anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, making them useful for treating airway disorders. The leaves of the plant can be utilized in eco-friendly methods to synthesize silver nanoparticles with notable antibacterial and anticancer activities. Furthermore, extracts from the roots have demonstrated effectiveness in preventing and treating kidney stones in animal models. Finally, the seeds of Alcea rosea show promising antihyperglycemic and antioxidative effects, suggesting a role in managing diabetes and its complications.