Common Mallow; Malva Neglecta is a weed that happily grows in gardens, lawns, fields, and roadsides all over the world.
A cousin to the Marsh Mallow, one of the main ingredients in "Throat Coat" tea, common mallow exhibits many of the same throat and bronchial advantages, as well.
Some other benefits may include, but are not limited to, dry coughs, healthy skin care, skin complaints & disorders, burns, bruises & sprains, overall immunity enhancement, and the soothing of mucus membranes, digestion, and gastrointestinal issues.
Pliny, the elder, wrote, "Whosoever shall take a spoonful of the Mallows shall that day be
free from all diseases that may come to him."
Leaves of the common mallow plant are kidney shaped with toothed margins. They have a pleasant flavor and a slighlty mucilageous texture. The plant is generally no more than a foot high, with a sprawling growth habit.
The leaves, flowers, fruit, and roots of common mallow may be used for human consumption and external applications. It may be eaten raw, cooked, or stewed (which thickens much like okra), taken as an infusion, or dried for later use.
Forage consciously. Be sure to consult a reference guide before harvesting wild herbs. Always harvest plants that are free of disease and pesticides.
Here's to your health!
Photography by, Natryl1
