A plant record

Mallow (mauve)

Malva rotundifolia

EnglishMallow

Kreyòlmauve

FrançaisMauve

BotanicalMalva rotundifolia

Mallow (mauve) — Malva rotundifolia, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Cough, sore throat, digestive inflammation, constipation, skin soothing, wounds

Prepared as

Cold infusion: soak handful of leaves and flowers in cold water overnight, drink 1 cup twice daily for urinary soothing and constipation. Mucilage tea: steep in warm water 15 minutes for sore throat and dry cough. Fresh leaf poultice applied to wounds, burns, and inflamed skin. Root decoction: boil small piece 15 minutes, drink for digestive inflammation and gut healing.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Tous, gòj ki fè mal, tripay ki anfle, vant ki sere, kalme po a, geri blesi

Français — Toux, mal de gorge, inflammation digestive, constipation, apaiser la peau, cicatriser les plaies

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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