Karaya gum, also known as sterculia gum, is a natural gum obtained from the Sterculia urens tree, which is native to India and other parts of Southeast Asia. It is a complex polysaccharide substance that is largely composed of galactose, rhamnose, and glucuronic acid.
Karaya gum is harvested by making incisions on the bark of the tree, causing the gum to exude. It is then collected and allowed to dry into brittle pieces, which are later pulverized into a fine powder. The powder is yellowish-white in color and has a distinctive odor.
This natural gum possesses unique properties that make it useful in various industries. In the food industry, karaya gum is commonly used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in products such as ice creams, yogurts, and salad dressings. It provides textural improvements by forming a gel-like structure when mixed with water.
Additionally, karaya gum is known for its medicinal properties. Due to its high fiber content and ability to absorb water, it is often used as a bulk-forming laxative to relieve constipation. It can also be found in certain types of dental adhesives and chewing gums, providing adhesive and binding properties.
Furthermore, karaya gum is utilized in various pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. It is used as a binder in tablet formulations, as well as a suspending agent in liquid medications. In cosmetics, karaya gum can be found in creams, lotions, and powders, acting as a thickener and stabilizer.
Overall, karaya gum is a versatile natural gum with a wide range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
