Mallow

botanical
Take on an empty stomach

What is it

Mallow refers to plants in the Malva genus (commonly Malva sylvestris, also called high mallow, blue malva, or cheeseplant), traditionally used as a demulcent herb for sore throat, cough, and digestive irritation.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Sore throat and cough (demulcent)

Mixed

Long traditional use as a soothing throat remedy. Rigorous clinical trials are scarce.

Digestive irritation

Mixed

Traditionally used for mild gastritis and intestinal irritation; modern evidence is limited.

How it works

Mallow leaves and flowers contain mucilage polysaccharides that swell with water to form a soothing coating on mucous membranes. This demulcent action helps relieve irritation in the throat, mouth, stomach, and intestinal tract. Mallow also contains flavonoids and anthocyanins (giving the flowers their characteristic blue-purple color) with mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in preclinical studies. The mucilage is the primary bioactive component for traditional applications. Mallow is used in many traditional throat lozenges, cough syrups, and digestive teas, often alongside marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis), which has higher mucilage content and similar uses.

Dosage

Traditional preparations use 2 to 5 grams of dried herb as a cold or warm infusion, two to three times daily. Cold-water extraction better preserves the mucilage. Standardized extracts vary.

When and how to take it

For digestive or throat soothing, take between meals or as needed for symptoms. Cold infusion is traditional for maximum mucilage. Lozenges and syrups deliver continuous demulcent contact.

3 commercial forms

Mallow flower tea

Cold infusion preserves mucilage; warm preparations are acceptable.

Traditional preparation; striking blue color in cold water.

Mallow leaf powder

Provides mucilage when mixed with water.

Used in lozenges and combination products.

Mallow tincture

Lower mucilage in alcohol extraction.

Less effective for demulcent action than water preparations.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon. The mucilaginous nature may cause a feeling of fullness or transient stool changes at high doses. Allergic reactions are rare.

Who should be cautious

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: traditional use is widespread and considered low risk, but concentrated extracts should be discussed with a clinician. People with diabetes should monitor blood glucose given fiber effects.

Interactions

Mucilage may modestly slow the absorption of orally co-administered medications. Take other medications 1 to 2 hours before or after mallow.

Food sources

FoodAmount%DV
Mallow leaves (edible)1 cup—

Frequently asked questions

Is mallow the same as marshmallow root?⌄

Different but related. Both are in the Malvaceae family and share demulcent properties. Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has higher mucilage content and is more commonly used for therapeutic demulcent applications.

Why does mallow tea turn blue?⌄

Mallow flowers contain anthocyanins that produce a blue-purple color in neutral or slightly acidic water. Adding lemon will turn the tea pink due to anthocyanin pH sensitivity.

References

  • Mallow on Wikidata — Wikidata link
  • Mallow on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link
  • Research on Mallow (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.