Malva sylvestris L. (common mallow) is a flowering plant
belonging to the Malvaceae family. The plant has laxative, diuretic,
spasmogenic and laxative properties. This plant has a rich history in
traditional medicine across Asia, Europe, and Africa, and presents a compelling
natural therapeutic agent for a wide range of dermatological conditions. Among
the various species used in herbal medicine, M. sylvestris stands out for its
diverse usage, which has been documented since 3000 BC. In Iran, M. sylvestris
is recognised as an edible herb and has been consumed raw in various vegetable
salads; however, it is most commonly used as a medicinal herb. This review
consolidates scientific evidence to validate its traditional use in treating
wounds, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and skin infections. The therapeutic
efficacy of M. sylvestris is primarily attributed to its diverse profile of
bioactive phytoconstituents. Key among these are mucilaginous polysaccharides,
which provide emollient and soothing effects for sensitive skin and
irritations; flavonoids (e.g., gossypetin, malvidin 3-glucoside) and phenolic
compounds, which exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities by
scavenging free radicals and modulating inflammatory mediators like PGE₂; and
tannins and essential oils, which contribute to its significant antibacterial
effects against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus. Preclinical and
clinical studies demonstrate that topical applications of M. sylvestris
extracts promote wound healing by enhancing collagen deposition and fibroblast
proliferation, reduce inflammation and pruritus in atopic dermatitis, and
accelerate burn wound contraction, often showing superior efficacy compared to
standard treatments like silver sulfadiazine. The convergence of its demulcent,
antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, underpinned by
its distinct phytochemical composition, justifies its traditional use and
positions M. sylvestris as a versatile and effective candidate for integrative
dermatological therapy. Future studies, including well-designed clinical trials
and standardised extract formulations, are required to validate the therapeutic
efficacy of Malva sylvestris in dermatological conditions.
Author(s) Details
Farshad Akbarnejad
Scientific Department, Rayka Shimi Saba Pharmaceutical & Hygienic
Knowledge-Based Co., Tehran, Iran.
Please see the link:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/rpbs/v9/6800
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