Evidence supporting the use of: Malva sylvestris
For the health condition: Itching

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Malva sylvestris (common mallow) has a long history of traditional use for soothing skin irritations, including itching. In various European and Mediterranean folk medicines, the leaves and flowers have been applied topically as poultices or used in baths to calm inflamed or itchy skin. This traditional use is largely attributed to the plant’s mucilage content—polysaccharides that form a slippery, soothing gel when mixed with water. These mucilaginous compounds are believed to create a protective layer over the skin, providing a physical barrier and reducing irritation.

While some laboratory studies have demonstrated that Malva sylvestris extracts possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, direct clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically for itching (pruritus) in humans is limited. Most available evidence comes from ethnobotanical surveys and anecdotal reports. The lack of robust clinical trials means that, while the traditional use is well-documented, scientific validation is limited. Overall, its use for itching is primarily justified by tradition and supported by a plausible mechanism (soothing mucilage), but not by high-quality clinical trials.

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