Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:
- Acidum malicum, E296, lactic acid, malolactic fermentation, sodium malate, sour apples.
- Note: Maleic acid and malonic acid should not be confused with malic acid.
Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness
Brief Background:
- Malic acid is an organic dicarboxylic acid found in wines, sour apples, and other fruits. An acidulant is a substance added to food or beverages to lower pH and to impart a tart taste. Phosphoric acid is an acidulant added to cola drinks. Malic acid is used as an acidulant as well as a flavoring agent in the processing of some foods. In addition to food uses, malic acid is sometimes used in cosmetics to adjust the pH (1).
- Preliminary animal studies indicate that malic acid may reduce injury from ischemic reperfusion injury (2) and reduce blood pressure (3).
- Malic acid may strongly irritate the skin or eye when applied topically (1).
- There is insufficient available evidence in humans to support the use of malic acid for any medical indication.
Dosing/Toxicology
- Content available for subscribers only.
Precautions/Contraindications
- Content available for subscribers only.
Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
- Content available for subscribers only.
Mechanism of Action
- Content available for subscribers only.
History
- Content available for subscribers only.
Evidence Table
- Content available for subscribers only.
Evidence Discussion
- Content available for subscribers only.
Products Studied
- Content available for subscribers only.
Author Information
- Content available for subscribers only.
References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
- Content available for subscribers only.