Family Name: Malvaceae
Botanical Name(s): Althaea officinalis
Popular Name(s): Mallards, Mauls, Mortification Koot
Parts Used: The leaves, root and flowers
Habitat: Marsh Mallow is widely found in many countries of
Europe.
Description: Marsh mallow is a perennial plant and grows to a
height of 3-4 ft. The roots are thick and long. The plant has round,
velvety leaves that are 2-3 inch (5-7.5 cm) long and about 1 1/4 inch
broad. The flowers are shaped like those of the common Mallow and have
pale pink or white colours.
Uses: Marsh mallow has demulcent and emollient properties. It is
used in the inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal and in
the urinary and respiratory organs. Decoction of the plant is used in
painful complaints of the urinary organs and it exerts a relaxing effect
upon the passages. It cures bruises, sprains or any ache in the muscles.
