Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Althaea officinalis, commonly known as marshmallow, is a versatile medicinal plant primarily utilized for its bioactive properties found in the root and flower. This species is rich in essential chemical compounds, including flavonoids, coumarins, and triterpenes, which contribute to its diverse therapeutic profile. Scientific studies highlight its significant pharmacological activities, ranging from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to acting as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. Due to these benefits, it is frequently used to address conditions such as cough and inflammation through various preparations like decoctions, extracts, and specialized chitosan gels. Furthermore, modern advancements have integrated the plant into innovative formulations like A.O-ZnO-NPs to enhance its medicinal efficacy.
- Synonyms
- Althaea Officinalis Var. Vulgaris · Althaea Officinalis Var. Rotundifolia · 12 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Root
Classification
Common Names
Althaea officinalis is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional and traditional names. In many circles, it is referred to by its common monikers, Altea comune and Alteia. Depending on the local dialect or heritage, you might also encounter it called Bismalva or Dail yr Hocys. In certain areas, the plant is specifically recognized by the name Bijeli sljez. These diverse naming conventions reflect the widespread botanical importance and cultural presence of this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Althaea officinalis is a versatile species that is frequently identified through various botanical synonyms. Scientific literature often references the plant as Althaea balearica or Althaea kragujevacensis depending on the specific regional context. Furthermore, the taxonomic classification includes Althaea multiflora, which highlights the botanical diversity within this group. Variations such as Althaea officinalis subsp. indica and Althaea officinalis var. obtusifolia further complicate its nomenclature. Understanding these complex relationships is essential for accurate identification and botanical study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Althaea officinalis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of living organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Malvales. It is a distinguished member of the genus Althaea, which helps define its specific botanical characteristics. Furthermore, the plant is a prominent representative of the family Malvaceae. Through these scientific relationships, its unique place in the natural world is clearly established.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Althaea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Althaea officinalis exhibits a broad geographical range that spans across several diverse continents and regions. In Africa, this plant is notably distributed throughout Northern Africa, specifically within the territories of Algeria and Tunisia. Its presence extends into the Asia-Temperate zone, where it can be found thriving in the Caucasus and Transcaucasus regions. Additionally, the species establishes itself within Central Asia, particularly across the landscapes of Kazakhstan. This wide-reaching distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various ecological environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Althaea officinalis is characterized by its distinctive growth form as a herbaceous plant. This species is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to stand upright in its natural habitat. In terms of stature, the plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.5 meters. Its development begins at a minimum height of 0.6 meters during its earlier stages. For many established specimens, a more specific minimum height of 0.858 meters is often observed.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Althaea officinalis is a traditional medicinal plant that demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its diverse bioactive properties. Scientific investigations have highlighted its notable anticancer activity, particularly in its ability to modulate critical signaling pathways involved in cancer progression. Beyond its role in oncology, the plant exhibits potent antioxidant capabilities driven by its rich composition of phenolic acids and flavonoids. Research shows that specific extracts from its aerial parts can effectively combat oxidative stress across multiple standardized assays. Consequently, Althaea officinalis serves as a promising natural source for developing new anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agents.
Compounds
Conditions
Althaea officinalis has been utilized for centuries as a medicinal plant to treat coughs by creating a protective film on inflamed mucosa. Its extracts demonstrate significant biochemical activity by treating 5-lipoxygenase through potent enzyme inhibition. The plant also exhibits strong antibacterial properties, effectively treating Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, it provides defense against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis. Finally, Althaea officinalis treats LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells by inhibiting nitric oxide production and reducing pro-inflammatory responses.
Preparations
Althaea officinalis is prepared as an extract to demonstrate neuroprotective effects against 6-hydroxydopamine-induced hemi-Parkinsonism in rat models. This plant is also prepared as a flower extract to facilitate the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles. These synthesized A.O.-ZnO-NPs have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve wound healing in diabetic models. Additionally, Althaea officinalis is prepared as an Althaea Officinalis chitosan gel to provide a therapeutic approach for quickening the healing of diabetic wounds. Finally, the plant is prepared as a decoction for in vitro studies examining its effects against Vibrio cholerae.
Parts used
Althaea officinalis is a versatile medicinal plant that offers therapeutic benefits through various distinct parts. The flowers of the plant are particularly notable for their varying antioxidant and flavonoid contents, which are influenced by the color of the petals. Researchers have even utilized flower extracts to facilitate the green synthesis of nanoparticles aimed at accelerating the healing of diabetic wounds. Beyond the blooms, the root of the plant plays a vital role in traditional and modern medicine. Specifically, aqueous marshmallow root extracts are widely recognized for their effectiveness in providing rapid symptomatic relief for irritative coughs.