Alteia: what it is for and how to use it

Alteia is a medicinal plant, also known as Malva-branca, Malva-do-pântano, Malvaísco or Malvarisco, popularly used for the treatment of respiratory diseases, as they have expectorant properties and serve to improve the symptoms of sore throat, helping to relieve coughing, for example. See more about other home remedies for sore throat.

This plant can be found in several regions of Brazil, it has light pink flowers, during the months of July to August, it has the scientific name of Althaea officinalis and can be purchased in natural product stores, compounding pharmacies and street markets. Furthermore, it can be used by adults and children over 3 years of age and should not be replaced by conventional treatment recommended by a doctor.

What is it for

The marshmallow plant is used in some situations as it popularly has the following properties:

• Soothing;
• Anti-inflammatory, as it contains flavonoids;
• Antitussive, that is, it relieves coughing;
• Antibiotics, fighting infections;
• Strengthens the immune system;
• Hypoglycemic, meaning it reduces blood sugar levels.

This plant is also used to help heal wounds in the mouth, teeth, boils, acne and burns, when applied to the injured region using a compress and can be purchased in natural product stores and compounding pharmacies, under the guidance of a doctor. herbalist and with the knowledge of a doctor.

How to use alteia

To obtain its properties, you can use the marshmallow leaves and root, both to drink and to place on skin wounds. To treat coughs, bronchitis and strengthen the immune system, the ways to use this plant are:

• Dry root or leaf extract: 2 to 5 g per day;
• Root fluid extract: 2 to 8 mL, 3 times a day;
• Root tea: 2 to 3 cups per day.

For children over 3 years old with acute bronchitis, it is recommended to use 5 g of the leaf or 3 mL of the root fluid. To stimulate healing, a clean cloth should be soaked in marshmallow tea and applied several times a day to the wounds on the skin and in the mouth.

How to prepare alteia tea

Alteia tea can be prepared so that you can feel the effects of the plant.

Ingredients

• 200 mL of water;
• 2 to 5 g of dried marshmallow root or leaves.

Preparation mode

You must boil the water, then add the plant root, cover and wait for 10 minutes. After this time, the tea must be filtered and drunk warm, and the recommended daily dose is two or three cups during the day.

Who shouldn’t use

Alteia mixed with alcoholic products, with tannins or iron is contraindicated for children, pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding. Furthermore, people with diabetes should only consume this plant according to medical advice, as it can increase the effect of conventional medications and cause changes in blood glucose levels. See more about the medicines used for diabetes.