Common Mallow?

Description:

According to Wikipedia Malva sylvestris has similar medicinal properties to 'marshmallow' Althaea officinalis. From the description of the 'marshmallow' on wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Althaea_off... Marshmallow is traditionally used as a treatment for the irritation of mucous membranes, including use as a gargle for mouth and throat ulcers, and gastric ulcers.[3] A study on rats concluded that an extract from the flowers has potential benefits for hyperlipidemia, gastric ulcers and platelet aggregation.[4] The root has been used since the Middle Ages in the treatment of sore throat.[5] The root extract (halawa extract) is sometimes used as flavouring in the making of a Middle Eastern snack called halva. The flowers and young leaves can be eaten, and are often added to salads or are boiled and fried. The later French version of the recipe, called pâte de guimauve (or "guimauve" for short), included an eggwhite meringue and was often flavored with rose water. Pâte de guimauve more closely resembles contemporary commercially available marshmallows, which no longer contain any actual marshmallow.

Notes:

bc