Can Donghancai (Malva verticillata L.) prevent osteoporosis?
Aug 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Winter hancai usually refers to winter mallow (Malva verticillata L.). Under normal circumstances, winter mallow may be somewhat helpful in preventing osteoporosis; however, osteoporosis prevention or treatment should not rely solely on winter mallow. In daily life, to better maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis, it is important to maintain a diversified diet, ensure adequate intake of nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, and combine this with appropriate exercise and sufficient sunlight exposure.
Winter hollyhock usually refers to Malva verticillata L. In general, Malva verticillata L. can help prevent osteoporosis to some extent, but it should not be solely relied upon to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Malva verticillata L. is a nutrient-rich vegetable containing considerable calcium. Calcium is an important nutrient for maintaining bone health, and adequate calcium intake helps strengthen bones, playing a positive role in preventing osteoporosis. In addition, Malva verticillata L. also contains vitamin K and other nutrients; vitamin K promotes calcium deposition in the bones, benefiting bone health.
However, the occurrence of osteoporosis is related to multiple factors, such as aging, hormonal changes, lack of physical activity, and insufficient sun exposure. It is difficult to fully prevent osteoporosis merely by consuming Malva verticillata L. Moreover, Malva verticillata L. should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption may burden the gastrointestinal tract and cause indigestion and other conditions.
In daily life, to better maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis, one should maintain a diversified diet, consume sufficient calcium and vitamin D, and combine appropriate physical activity with adequate sun exposure, cultivating healthy lifestyle habits.
