Black Malwa (ALCEA ROSEA VAR. Nigra) is a plant that in botany is considered a real gem – not only because of its deep, almost velvety color, but above all to the richness of bioactive compounds. Its petals contain a high concentration of anthocyanins: malwidine, dolphinidine and petunidinewhich are a natural shield against free radicals, supporting DNA protection and slowing the aging process. In combination with flavonoids, tannins, plant mucus and phenolic acids, they form a complex with anti -inflammatory, antibacterial and strengthening blood vessels. This was confirmed by the study of research from 2023, conducted by the team from Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences (Iran) and the University of Greenwich (Great Britain).
Black Malwa from the Balkans regions for centuries has been valued for centuries both in folk medicine and gardening. Currently, it is grown in many parts of the world, including in Poland, where it is doing perfectly in moderate climate conditions. The plant can grow up to three meters high, and its thick, rigid stems are covered with characteristic, small hairs. Flowers, with a diameter of about ten centimeters, have an intense purple color, often falling into black, which makes them one of the most effective among decorative and healing plants.
The best time for a harvest of Black Malwa flowers falls from the end of June to September, when they reach the full color and aroma. Collecting on a dry, sunny day allows you to maintain the maximum content of anthocyanins, and drying in the shade or at 30-35 ° C protects delicate compounds from degradation. Against the background of other varieties – pink, musk or wild – black mallow is distinguished not only in color, but also with the highest concentration of bioactive pigments. Its potential is appreciated by both herbalists and the pharmaceutical industry, seeing in it raw material with a wide application.
Black Malwa flowers have been used for centuries to relieve upper respiratory tract ailments – The infusions coat the mucous membranes of the throat and larynx, bringing relief at hoarseness, dry cough or irritation. A similar protection effect also works within the digestive tract thanks to the content of polysaccharides. Therefore, black mallow tea can be used for reflux, hyperacidity or peptic ulcer disease.
Externally, black malwa is used in skin and eye care. Infusion compresses soothe irritation, support healing of small wounds, reduce redness and swelling, and also intensively moisturize the epidermis. In natural cosmetics, mallow extracts are added to creams, tonics and masks to strengthen blood vessels and reduce inflammation. Fitoestrogens present in flowers mean that in traditional folk medicine, malwa was used for irregular menstruation, painful bleeding or during menopause – soothing hot strokes and tension.
Although the black mallow is considered a safe plant, there are some contraindications. Due to the presence of phytoestrogens, it is not recommended to use it in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Plant locks can delay the absorption of drugs, so it is worth maintaining at least a two -hour distance between their adoption and the consumption of infusion. People with allergies to plants from the municipal family should avoid contact with the raw material. In the case of chronic diseases such as diabetes or diseases requiring planned surgical procedures, earlier medical consultation is indicated.
Black mallow’s tea is extremely easy to prepare. Two tablespoons of dried petals pour 250 ml of boiling water, set aside for about 20 minutes, and then strain. Such an infusion can be drunk hot or used as a throat rinses. The traditional version assumes an additional, short boil of infusion after straining, which aims to strengthen the extraction of active compounds. It is recommended to eat 1-2 cups a day for two weeks, and then – for supporting purposes – once a day. The infusion has a delicate, slightly floral taste and an intense, deep color resulting from the presence of anthocyanins.
Research conducted in 2025 by a team from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili (Iran) and published in BMC Plant Biology have shown that the way of drying black mallow flowers is of key importance to maintaining their biological value. The highest content of phenols (171.75 mg Gae/G), flavonoids (68.97 mg RE/G) and the highest antioxidant activity (59.61 µmol Fe (ii)/g) were obtained when drying in the shadealthough this process was the longest. Drying in the oven at 40 ° C allowed to keep most compounds at a much shorter processing time, while drying in full sun caused the greatest loss of mucus and anthocyanins.
Regular drinking of a black malwa infusion can support the body during periods of colds, soothe throat irritations, facilitate discharge, and also protect the stomach and esophagus. Thanks to the presence of phytoestrogens, it is used to help alleviate the symptoms of menopause or painful periods. Externally, the infusion works as a tonic for sensitive skin or a compress to tired eyes. Fresh black mallow flowers can also be added to salads.
Sources: Terazpoczy.pl, BMC Plant Biology
