Karaya gum

Karaya gum is a natural and safe ingredient also known as E416. It ss a natural gum exudation obtained by the incision of the stems and branches of Sterculia trees. Gum Karaya is used in many pharmaceutical and food applications that require texturing properties: Karaya gum will bring suspending properties, high viscosity for a significant effect on texture even at low dosage, and great water retention properties. Pharmaceutical applications of karaya gum have been extensively studied. The main current application is as an active agent in bulk laxatives. As such, karaya gum is considered an active substance in medications for intestinal comfort and regulating intestinal transit (in granules). Karaya is used in gastric dressings and medications that deliver active substances in the gastro-intestinal tract. Additional properties that are useful when formulating medication include: > capacity to retain moisture > as an adhesive compound for colostomy rings and dental adhesives > bulking, thickening and viscosity control agent