Why is using cool or lukewarm water recommended when initially steeping mallow leaves or flowers?

Boiling water can cause the mucilage to clump together instead of dissolving uniformly

A critical practical tip for home preparation of mallow infusions, especially using the leaves and flowers, involves water temperature. Rapid introduction to boiling water can be counterproductive because it causes the mucilage to aggregate or clump together unevenly. This clumping results in an infusion that feels gritty or slightly sludgy rather than achieving a smooth, uniformly gel-like consistency. By using cool or lukewarm water initially, even if the preparation is later slightly warmed, the mucilage is encouraged to suspend and dissolve evenly throughout the water, yielding a far more effective coating agent necessary for achieving the desired demulcent benefits.