Alcea
Alcea, commonly known as hollyhock, is a cherished perennial celebrated for its towering spikes of vibrant, bell-shaped blooms. Beyond its ornamental elegance in gardens, this medicinal plant has historically been utilized for its soothing properties, particularly in traditional remedies targeting respiratory ailments and skin inflammations through its mucilaginous qualities.
- Scientific name: Alcea
- Family: Malvaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. It is further classified within the order Malvales and the family Malvaceae. Ultimately, the medicinal plant is identified by its genus, Alcea.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Malvales | WCVP |
| Family | Malvaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Alcea | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern across various regions of the European continent. In Northern Europe, its presence is noted within the borders of Great Britain. Moving into Middle Europe, it can be found growing in the landscapes of Austria. The species also occupies territories throughout the Czech-Slovakia region. Finally, its geographical range extends further into Germany and Hungary.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Europe | Great Britain | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Austria | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Czechia-Slovakia | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Germany | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Hungary | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Switzerland | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Baleares | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | France | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Portugal | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Spain | WCVP |
Activities
Alcea has 2 reported activities identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Antimicrobial, Antioxidant.
- Total activities
- 2
- Scientific sources
- 2
Most Reported Activities
| Activity | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Antimicrobial | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Antioxidant | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |