Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Common mallow, High mallow, Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract, Malva sylvestris L.
Overview
Malva sylvestris, commonly known as common mallow or high mallow, is a flowering plant traditionally utilized in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and hepatoprotective properties. The glycerite liquid extract is an alcohol-free preparation made by infusing fresh or dried plant material in glycerol and water. This process yields a mucilaginous extract that is particularly suitable for individuals sensitive to alcohol, including children and pregnant women, and for applications on sensitive mucous membranes. While research on Malva sylvestris itself is moderately mature, with several in vivo and in vitro studies supporting its traditional uses, specific research focusing on the glycerite extract form is more limited, primarily consisting of preclinical studies.
Benefits
Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract offers several potential benefits, primarily due to the properties of *Malva sylvestris*. It demonstrates significant hepatoprotective effects, as evidenced by animal studies where extracts reduced liver enzyme markers and histopathological damage in models of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity, indicating dose-dependent liver protection. The extract also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive (pain-reducing) effects in animal models. Furthermore, its high mucilage content provides a demulcent action, effectively soothing irritated mucous membranes in the throat and digestive tract. While preclinical evidence is promising, large-scale human clinical trials specifically on the glycerite extract are limited, meaning the strength of evidence for human efficacy and precise effect sizes are not yet well-quantified.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract involves its high mucilage content, which forms a protective, soothing layer over irritated mucous membranes, thereby reducing discomfort. Beyond this physical barrier, the extract contains various bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The hepatoprotective action is believed to stem from these compounds' ability to reduce oxidative stress and stabilize liver cell membranes. Glycerol, used as the solvent in glycerite extracts, not only serves as a preservative but also enhances the extraction efficiency of these beneficial compounds, particularly polyphenols, contributing to the extract's overall bioavailability and therapeutic potential.
Side effects
Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract, derived from *Malva sylvestris*, is generally considered safe with a low toxicity profile. Adverse effects are rare but may include mild gastrointestinal upset or, in sensitive individuals, allergic reactions. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications reported in the current literature. A key safety advantage of the glycerite form is its alcohol-free nature, making it a suitable option for populations who need to avoid alcohol, such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with alcohol sensitivities. Overall, its safety profile is favorable, aligning with its traditional use as a gentle herbal remedy.
Dosage
There is no universally standardized dosing for Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract due to limited specific clinical data on this particular preparation. However, traditional herbal uses of *Malva sylvestris* extracts often suggest a daily equivalent of 1 to 3 grams of dried herb. Glycerite extracts are typically administered in drops or teaspoons, with many commercial formulations containing approximately 30% raw plant material in a glycerol base. It's important to note that the concentration of active compounds can vary based on extraction conditions, such as glycerol concentration and temperature. Users should follow product-specific instructions or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosing. The typical shelf life for glycerites is 12–24 months when stored correctly.
FAQs
Is the glycerite extract alcohol-free?
Yes, glycerite extracts utilize glycerol as a solvent instead of ethanol, making them completely alcohol-free and suitable for individuals who need to avoid alcohol.
Does glycerite extraction preserve active compounds?
Yes, glycerol-water mixtures are effective at extracting beneficial compounds like polyphenols and mucilage, though efficiency can vary with specific extraction parameters.
Are there clinical trials in humans for this extract?
High-quality randomized controlled trials specifically on *Malva sylvestris* glycerite extracts in humans are limited; most evidence comes from animal studies and traditional use.
What are the main uses of Mallow Glycerite Liquid Extract?
Its primary uses include soothing irritated mucous membranes, providing anti-inflammatory effects, and offering hepatoprotective benefits, based on traditional use and preclinical research.
Research Sources
- https://journals.innovareacademics.in/index.php/ijls/article/download/14809/7630 – This animal study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of *Malva sylvestris* aqueous extract in paracetamol-induced liver toxicity in mice. The findings demonstrated that the extract significantly reduced elevated liver enzymes and histopathological damage in a dose-dependent manner, indicating its potential to protect the liver from chemical-induced injury. This research provides preclinical evidence supporting the traditional use of mallow for liver support.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8160696/ – This experimental study focused on optimizing the extraction of polyphenols from plants using glycerol-water mixtures. It found that specific concentrations of glycerol (30-65%) and temperatures (50-80°C) efficiently extract bioactive compounds, suggesting that glycerite preparations can effectively preserve the therapeutic properties of botanical materials. This supports the viability of glycerite extracts as a method for delivering plant bioactives.
- https://formulabotanica.com/making-glycerites-fresh-food/ – This source provides practical information on the preparation and characteristics of glycerite extracts. It highlights that glycerites are alcohol-free alternatives to tinctures, suitable for sensitive populations, and discusses general guidelines for their formulation, including typical raw material concentrations and shelf life. It serves as a general reference for the properties and uses of glycerite preparations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22221093/ – This ethnobotanical review summarizes the traditional uses and phytochemical composition of *Malva sylvestris*. It highlights the plant's historical application in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and mucilaginous properties, correlating these traditional uses with its known chemical constituents. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the plant's historical significance and potential therapeutic applications.
