*2.3.1.2.3 Microwave-assisted hydrodistillation*

The principle of the microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) is based upon its direct impact with polar materials/solvents and is governed by two phenomena: ionic conduction and dipole rotation, which in most cases occurs simultaneously [46]. MAHD has been shown to reduce both extraction time and volume of solvent required, minimizing environmental impact by emitting less CO2 in atmosphere [47–49]. Some recently reported studies have successfully utilized a microwave oven for the extraction of volatile active components from plants [50]. It has been regarded as an important alternative in conventional extraction techniques because of its advantages which mainly are a reduction of extraction time, solvents, selectivity, volumetric heating, and controllable heating process (**Figure 8**) [51].
