Malva alcea var. fastigiata

What is Malva alcea var. fastigiata?

Malva alcea var. fastigiata is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae.

It is a compact, fastigiate form of the mallow, Malva alcea, with erect, unbranched stems that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, 5-12 cm long, and 3-6 cm wide, with a rounded base and a serrated margin. The flowers are pale pink to white, 3-5 cm in diameter, and have five petals with a prominent calyx.

The plant produces small, oblong, hairy fruits that are 1-2 cm long and contain numerous seeds.

What ailments can you heal with this herb?

The most common ailments you can heal with Malva alcea var. fastigiata are eczema, which is effectively treated with its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, by applying a paste made from its roots to the affected area.

The plant's roots also contain mucilages, which have been used to treat digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, by soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation. Malva alcea var. fastigiata has been used to treat bronchitis by loosening and dissolving mucus, allowing for easier expulsion of the mucus from the lungs. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties also make it effective in treating wounds and skin irritations, including acne and boils.

The plant's roots have been used to treat fever, by reducing body temperature and alleviating symptoms.

What are the therapeutic properties this herb?

The main therapeutic properties of Malva alcea var. fastigiata are its anti-inflammatory action, which is attributed to the presence of flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, that inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

The plant exhibits antioxidant properties due to the high content of saponins, such as hederagenin and oleanolic acid, that scavenge free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. Malva alcea var. fastigiata has been found to possess antimicrobial properties, effective against a range of bacteria and fungi, including Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, thanks to the presence of volatile oils like beta-pinene and limonene. The plant's mucilaginous properties, contributed by the high concentration of mucilages like malvidin, make it a potential treatment for gastrointestinal disorders, including constipation and diarrhea.

Its anti-cancer properties are attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds like saponins and flavonoids that inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

What are the medicinal constituents this herb?

The most important healing constituents of Malva alcea var. fastigiata are mucilages, including albacin, fastigioside, and malvacin, which are responsible for its demulcent and emollient properties.

These glycosidic compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase. The flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin have also been identified in Malva alcea var. fastigiata, and are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, the plant contains ascorbic acid, a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against oxidative stress and promote wound healing.

The combination of these constituents provides Malva alcea var. fastigiata with its therapeutic potential in treating digestive issues, skin irritations, and other inflammatory conditions.

What are the main herbal preparations this herb?

The main herbal preparations of Malva alcea var. fastigiata are malva infusion, malva tincture, malva salve, malva tea, and malva syrup.

Malva infusion is a traditional remedy for soothing digestive issues, made by steeping dried mallow flowers in hot water. Malva tincture is a concentrated liquid extract used for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, often taken internally to treat respiratory issues. Malva salve is a topical application made from the flowers and leaves, used to treat skin irritations, wounds, and ulcers due to its mucilaginous properties.

Malva tea and malva syrup are also used as demulcents, helping to soothe and protect mucous membranes in the digestive and respiratory tracts.

What are the possible side effects of using this herb improperly?

The possible side effects of using Malva alcea var. fastigiata improperly are trigger allergic reactions due to its potential allergenic properties, cause diarrhea by irritating the digestive tract, interact with medications such as blood thinners and diabetes medications, induce nausea and vomiting due to its bitter and mucilaginous properties, and trigger asthma attacks in individuals sensitive to pollen or plant extracts.

This is because Malva alcea var. fastigiata contains saponins, flavonoids, and other compounds that can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. The plant's allergenic properties are attributed to its high pollen count and the presence of allergenic proteins. Improper use of Malva alcea var. fastigiata may also exacerbate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma due to its potential to trigger inflammation and bronchospasm.

Additionally, the plant's high mucilage content can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.