Page 106 - Pharmd general phytochemistry I-Final2024_LEUCTERS

Sorbitol (D-glucitol)

Occurrence:
 Sorbitol is naturally abundant in many rosaceous fruits such as the ripe berries of

sorbus aucuparia (Rosaceae).

 It is prepared synthetically by the catalytic hydrogenation or by electrolytic
reduction of glucose.

Properties:
 It is very water soluble, produces sweet and viscus solutions.
 It tastes approximately half as sweet as sucrose.

Uses:
1- Sorbitol solution (sorbitol liquid, BP 1988) is used as a sweetening agent in tooth-

pastes and shewing gums and as vehicle in elixirs.
2- Dietary supply for diabetics because it is not absorbed from G.I.T.
3- Osmotic diuretic, (50 g) administered I.V.
4- Nutrient and source of energy (I.V.).

Mannitol

Occurrence:
 Mannitol is naturally obtained from manna (dried plant exudates of Fraxinus ornus,

Oleaceae).
 Manna contains up to 60% mannitol.
 Mannitol is also obtained by catalytic hydrogenation of mannose.

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