Common Mallow (Malva sylvestris L.): A valuable medicinal plant with potential applications in the food industry

Malva sylvestris L. is one of the valuable medicinal plants in traditional medicine that have been used to treat many diseases. Free radicals and their adverse effects on food products and consumer health have always been considered as one of the most challenging issues for food industry researchers. Also, consumption of synthetic antioxidants in food products is limited due to their harmful effects on the human health. Bioactive compounds are one of the most valuable compounds that have been widely applied in the food industry. Therefore, the demand for identification of the plant resources rich in bioactive compounds and providing a suitable method for processing and recovery of these vital compounds is necessary. The application of modern extraction methods, such as ultrasound technology is a promising method to recover valuable bioactive compounds from medicinal plants such as Malva sylvestris L. In this review article, the biologically active compounds of this valuable medicinal plant was presented as new food ingredients. Furthermore, appropriate extraction methods to separate valuable bioactive compounds was also considered.