Malva Sylvestris
Blue Mallow Flowers / Malva Sylvestris / Blue Mallow Flowers & Leaves / High Mallow
Origin: Bulgaria
Botanical Name: Malva Sylvestris
Other Names: Mallow, Zebrina Mallow, Common Mallow, Blue Mallow, Cheese-cake, High Mallow, Tall Mallow, Marsh mallow, Cheese flower, Malva, Malve, Mauve, Almindelig katost
Malva sylvestris, commonly known as common mallow or high mallow, is a species of the mallow genus Malva in the family Malvaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa, but has also been widely naturalized in other regions, including North America. M. sylvestris is a vigorous plant with showy flowers of bright mauve-purple, with dark veins, standing 3–4 feet (0.91–1.22 m) high and growing freely in meadows, hedgerows and in fallow fields. The flowers of common mallow are also edible and can have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. They are often used as a decorative garnish in salads or desserts.
Usage: Boil 1 cup water. Place 1 teaspoon dried blue mallow flowers in a teapot, tea infuser, or directly into your cup. Once the water has reached a boil, pour it over flowers. Allow the flowers to steep in the hot water for about 5-10 minutes.
Traditional Use
Blue (common) mallow is one of the most soothing herbs of European tradition, rich in natural mucilage. The flowers are traditionally used:
- As a soothing tea for the throat and voice, and to support the respiratory system in the cold season
- To calm the stomach and support comfortable digestion
- To support appetite
- Traditionally by nursing mothers
- As a gentle gargle, and cooled as a soothing wash for the skin
Harvest & Character
Purple-pink to violet flowers that turn blue in the cup, giving a beautiful colour to tea.
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition, consult you doctor. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet or using any new product.
