Common Mallow (Symphytum officinale)

Common Mallow (Symphytum officinale) is a member of the Scrophulariaceae family, native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, roots, and stems have been used for decoctions, poultices, and infusions.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.

Common Mallow (Symphytum officinale) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Common Mallow (Symphytum officinale) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Common Mallow
Scientific Name	Symphytum officinale
Plant Family	Scrophulariaceae
Genus	Symphytum
Species	officinale
Native Range	Europe, Asia, North Africa
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Roots, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Poultice, Infusion

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Symphytum officinale
Common Name: Common Mallow
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Symphytum, Common Mullein, Velvetleaf
Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae
Genus: Symphytum

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 centimeters.
Leaves: Ovate leaves with smooth margins, upper surface pale green, lower surface darker green, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Radially symmetrical flowers with five white petals and five yellow stamens arranged in a solitary inflorescence.
Stems: Erect, branched, glabrous, with ribbed surfaces and nodes that bear opposite, stipulate leaves.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Poultice
Infusion
Ointment

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: In herbal literature, noted as a cooling anti-inflammatory, for irritation-related applications.
Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a soothing astringent, in structural-support contexts.
Tonic: Historically regarded as a mild tonic, for long-term use contexts.
Sedative: As described in traditional systems, a warming sedative, in stress-related herbal practices.

Active Compounds

Tannin: A group of compounds frequently present in plant tissues exposed to herbivory.
Flavonoid: A widely occurring class of plant polyphenols found in leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Phenolic Acid: A class of aromatic plant compounds commonly found in leaves, seeds, and stems.
Glycoside: Secondary metabolites formed through glycosylation processes in plants.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications: Some conditions have been cited as contraindications for the use of this herb.
Allergies: Allergic reactions associated with this herb have not been well documented.
Drug Interactions: Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
Toxicity: Toxic effects have been reported in association with the use of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Tincture: A preparation involving soaking plant parts in alcohol for extended extraction.
Powder: Powdered preparations use finely milled plant parts.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moist soils. Tolerates variable moisture levels.