This plant is one of the earliest cited in recorded literature and was considered a perfect plant. Dioscorides extols it as a remedy, and in ancient days it was not only valued as a medicine, but was used, especially the Musk Mallow, to decorate the graves of friends. Pliny said: 'Whosoever shall take a spoonful of the Mallows shall that day be free from all diseases that may come to him.' All Mallows contain abundant mucilage, and the Arab physicians in early times used the leaves as a poultice to suppress inflammation.
Many species are edible as leaf vegetables. As an herbal mixture, it is commonly used for its colon cleansing properties and as a weight loss supplement. As well, this herb can help soothe inflammation in the mouth and throat and is helpful for earaches.
The seed contains mucilage, polysaccharides and flavonoids. It is demulcent, (soothes and softens irritated tissues, especially the mucus membranes) diuretic, emollient, (softens the skin) galactogogue (increases milk flow in nursing mothers) and is a gentle stimulator of the bowels. The seeds which have a sweet and astringent taste are used in Tibetan medicine. They are used in the treatment of renal disorders, the retention of fluids, frequent thirst and diarrhea.
