Ethnomedicinal, Antimicrobial and Pharmacological aspects of Malva parviflora Linn.: A review

Abstract

Malva parviflora Linn. has shown its pharmacological potential in different ailments. Leaves are used in the management of wounds and swelling. A lotion made from the leaves is used to treat bruises and broken limbs. The leaves of M. parviflora are used for drawing swollen, inflamed purulent wounds. Pharmacological studies shown that M. parviflora possesses antibacterial, antidiabetic, antifungal, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-irritant, antioxidant, anti-ulcerogenic, analgesic and other activities. It is well known that M. parviflora have been a major source of natural antioxidants. M. parviflora contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds. It was found that methanol fraction of polyphenols from leaves and stems of M. parviflora contain different amounts of phenols, flavonoid, saponin, alkaloid, resin and tannin. M. parviflora has been widely used in many parts of the world for curing various diseases.