- Acacia (Gum Arabic) is a natural gum exudate used as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickening agent in pharmaceuticals.
- Acacia (Gum Arabic) aids in binding tablets, coating drugs, and is widely applied in food, cosmetics, and medicinal products.
General Information
- Synonyms: Gum Acacia, Gum Arabics
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Biological Source:
- Dried exudate from Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal.
- Family: Fabaceae
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Geographical Source:
- Found in Sudan, Nigeria, Egypt, India, Australia.
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Macroscopical Characters of Acacia (Gum Arabic)
- Color: Pale yellow to brown.
- Shape: Irregular pieces, sometimes tear-shaped.
- Texture: Brittle when dry, becomes soft in water.
- Taste: Bland, mucilaginous.
- Odor: Odorless.
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Chemical Constituents
- Polysaccharides: Arabinogalactan, Rhamnogalacturonan.
- Sugars: Arabinose, Galactose, Rhamnose.
- Organic Acids: Glucuronic acid.
- Enzymes: Oxidases, Peroxidases.
Preparation
- Collection: Bark is incised to obtain exudate.
- Purification: Dissolved in water, filtered, and dried.
- Processing: Converted into powder or granules.
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Evaluation
- Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol.
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Purity Tests:
- Molisch’s Test (Carbohydrate test) → Purple color.
- Swelling Index → Assesses hydration capacity.
Preservation & Storage
- Stored in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption and microbial growth.
Therapeutic Uses
- Demulcent (used in cough syrups).
- Suspending agent in pharmaceuticals.
- Dietary fiber in diabetic formulations.
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Commercial Utility
- Used in food industry (stabilizer in beverages, confectionery).
- Used in cosmetics (lotions, creams).
- Used in printing industry (ink formulations).
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