The genus Alcea consists more than 40 subspecies. Most of them were partly studied but some of them were not. In this review we will
introduce the traditional medicinal knowledge and uses of this genus, summarize and discuss the modern research reports of the
medicinal/biological activities of the various subspecies. Special attention will be paid to A. rosea, the most investigated subspecies of this
genus. Clear emphasis will be laid upon some reported natural products isolated from subspecies of Alcea. Future possible studies will be
suggested.
Key words: Alcea, traditional medicine, Alcea rosea, polysaccharides, polyphenols, anthocyanins.
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