Chinese mallow
Chinese Mallow (Malva verticillata)
Chinese Mallow (Malva verticillata), also known as Cluster Mallow or Whorled Mallow, is a species of the mallow genus Malva in the family of Malvaceae. It is native to East Asia but is also grown extensively in other regions for its medicinal properties.
Pronunciation
Chinese Mallow: /ˈtʃaɪˌniːz ˈmæloʊ/
Etymology
The term "Chinese Mallow" is derived from its native origin in East Asia, particularly China, and its belonging to the mallow family. The scientific name Malva verticillata is derived from Latin, where "malva" is the classical name for the plant, and "verticillata" refers to the whorled arrangement of its leaves.
Description
Chinese Mallow is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1-2 meters tall. The leaves are alternate, palmately lobed. The flowers are small, with five pale pink or white petals. The fruit is a schizocarp, a dry fruit that, when mature, splits up into single-seeded segments.
Medicinal Uses
Chinese Mallow has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is known to have diuretic, demulcent, and emollient properties. It is often used in the treatment of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and constipation. The leaves and seeds of the plant are used in medicinal preparations.
Related Terms
- Malvaceae: The plant family to which Chinese Mallow belongs.
- Schizocarp: A type of dry fruit that splits into single-seeded segments when mature.
- Diuretic: A substance that promotes diuresis, the increased production of urine.
- Demulcent: A substance that relieves irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth by forming a protective film.
- Emollient: A substance that softens and soothes the skin.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chinese mallow
- Wikipedia's article - Chinese mallow
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