Evidence supporting the use of: Malva sylvestris
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Malva sylvestris (common mallow) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine for various inflammatory conditions, including earaches and mild ear infections. The plant is rich in mucilage, which is believed to have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. In folk medicine, infusions or poultices made from mallow leaves or flowers have been used topically or as ear drops to alleviate discomfort from earaches, likely due to their demulcent and purported mild analgesic effects.

However, there is very limited scientific research directly examining the efficacy of Malva sylvestris in treating ear infections or ear pain. Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on its general anti-inflammatory and soothing properties observed in laboratory or animal studies, not specifically in the context of otitis or ear health. There are no well-controlled clinical trials supporting its use for this particular indication. Thus, while its traditional use is documented in ethnobotanical sources, scientific validation is minimal, and its effectiveness for ear infections remains unproven.

In summary, the use of Malva sylvestris for ear infections or earache is primarily supported by traditional use, with very low-level evidence (1/5) and no robust scientific studies to confirm its safety or efficacy for this condition.

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