Malvastrum coromandelianum(Malvaceae) Broomweed

Malvastrum coromandelianum (False Mallow)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Malvastrum coromandelianum

Family: Malvaceae

Genus: Malvastrum

Related Herbs from the same family:

Sida cordifolia (Bala): One of the most important Ayurvedic herbs, revered as a premier Balya (strengthening) and Vata-balancing herb. It is used to treat nervous disorders, muscle pain, and as a general rejuvenative.

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Japa): The flowers are used for their cooling, astringent, and hair-growth-promoting properties. It is a key ingredient in hair oils and for managing excessive bleeding.

Abelmoschus moschatus (Latakasturi): The seeds are used in Ayurveda and aromatherapy for their musky scent and are considered aphrodisiac, nervine, and antispasmodic.

Gossypium herbaceum (Cotton/Karpasa): The root bark and seeds are used in traditional medicine for their emmenagogue (promotes menstruation), galactagogue, and oxytocic properties.

The Malvaceae family, or the mallow family, is known for plants that are often mucilaginous, demulcent, and cooling. Many members have traditional uses for soothing membranes, supporting the female reproductive system, and providing strength.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Malvastrum coromandelianum | English: False Mallow, Broomweed | Sanskrit: - | Hindi: Gurchanti, Sonchiri | Tamil: Patti | Telugu: Chirubenda | Kannada: - | Malayalam: - | Marathi: - | Bengali: - | Tamil: Patti | (Note: Common names are less standardized for this herb, and many are regional.)

3. Medicinal Uses:Demulcent, Anti-inflammatory, Diuretic, Astringent, Antipyretic (fever-reducing), Wound Healing.

Medicinal Parts:The whole plant, including leaves, roots, and flowers, is used in traditional medicine.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Mucilage: A gelatinous substance found in the leaves and stems. Its primary action is Demulcent, meaning it soothes and protects irritated internal and external tissues.

Flavonoids (Quercetin, Kaempferol): Plant-based antioxidants. Their actions are Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, and they may contribute to Diuretic effects.

Tannins: Astringent compounds. Their actions are Astringent (tightening tissues), Antimicrobial, and Wound Healing, helping to stop bleeding and form a protective layer.

Phenolic Acids: Contribute to the overall Antioxidant capacity of the plant, protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Saponins: Soapy compounds that can have Anti-inflammatory and Diuretic properties.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Vrana (Wounds) & Twak Roga (Skin Diseases)

Formulation: Fresh leaf paste or poultice.

Preparation & Use: The leaves are crushed into a paste and applied topically on wounds, cuts, burns, and skin inflammations to promote healing and reduce infection.

Reasoning: The combination of mucilage (soothing), tannins (astringent and antimicrobial), and anti-inflammatory compounds helps in cleaning the wound, reducing swelling, and promoting tissue repair.

Daha (Burning Sensation) & Jwara (Fever)

Formulation: Decoction of the whole plant.

Preparation & Use: A decoction is made by boiling the plant in water. This cool decoction is consumed to reduce internal heat and fever.

Reasoning: The plant is considered to have a cooling (Sheeta) potency, which helps pacify Pitta dosha and alleviate conditions of burning sensation and fever.

Mutrakrichra (Dysuria) & Pittashmari (Gall/Kidney Stones)

Formulation: Plant juice or decoction.

Preparation & Use: The juice extracted from the fresh plant or a weak decoction is taken orally to soothe the urinary tract and act as a diuretic.

Reasoning: Its demulcent property soothes the irritated lining of the urinary tract, while its diuretic action helps flush out the system.

Kasa (Cough) & Swasa (Asthma)

Formulation: Leaf infusion.

Preparation & Use: An infusion is made by steeping the leaves in hot water. This is drunk to soothe a dry, irritated throat and cough.

Reasoning: The mucilaginous quality of the plant acts as a demulcent, forming a protective film over the throat's mucous membranes, reducing irritation and the urge to cough.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

This herb is primarily used in traditional medicine rather than cuisine.

Soothing Skin Wash

Purpose: To clean and soothe irritated skin, wounds, or burns.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a handful of fresh Malvastrum coromandelianum plant.

• Boil in water for 10-15 minutes.

• Allow the decoction to cool and use it to wash the affected area 2-3 times a day.

Demulcent Tea for Cough

Purpose: To relieve dry cough and throat irritation.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a few fresh or dried leaves.

• Steep in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.

• Strain and drink warm. A little honey can be added.

Leaf Poultice for Wounds

Purpose: To promote wound healing and reduce inflammation.

Preparation & Use:

• Clean a handful of fresh leaves.

• Grind them into a fine paste with a little water.

• Apply this paste directly to the wound or inflamed skin and cover with a clean cloth.

7. Disclaimer:Malvastrum coromandelianum is not as well-documented as other medicinal herbs. Its use is based primarily on traditional and ethnobotanical knowledge. It is generally considered safe for topical use. Internal use should be approached with caution, and it is essential to consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before use, especially during pregnancy, lactation, or if taking other medications. Proper plant identification is crucial to avoid confusion with other species.

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8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Medicinal Plants by K.R. Kirtikar and B.D. Basu

• Ethnobotanical Leaflets

• Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda by Prof. P.V. Sharma

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow)* Species: Althaea officinalis | Family: Malvaceae | Genus: Althaea* Similarities: Both plants are rich in mucilage and are used as potent demulcents to soothe irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts. They share a primary use for coughs, wounds, and inflammation.

2. Sida cordifolia (Bala)* Species: Sida cordifolia | Family: Malvaceae | Genus: Sida* Similarities: As members of the Malvaceae family, they share soothing (demulcent) properties. While Bala is more renowned as a tonic and nervine, both herbs are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing capabilities.

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