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Clinical pharmacy PharmD program Third level Phytochemistry-1 (PG-504)

IV- Mucilage

Mucilage is white amorphous masses which yield colloidal, viscous, non-

adhesive solutions with water. They are a complex polysaccharide containing

uronic acid and other units. It is not precipitated by lime water (pectin is

precipitated).

Gum Mucilage

Formation Gums are abnormal Mucilages are generally

products, formed by normal products of
injury of the plant due to metabolism formed within
unfavourable conditions the cell (intracellular

as breakdown of cell wall. formation).

Mucilage may occur in:

1) Cortical cells of stems, rhizomes or roots, e.g., Althea.

2) Leaves, e.g., Buchu.

3) Endosperm of seeds, e.g., Trigonella.

4) Epidermis of seeds, e.g. Mustard, Linseed.

5) Seaweeds, e.g., Laminaria.

Functions in plants:

1) As reserve food.

2) As water absorbent and reservoir, in case of desert plant.

General Uses:

1. As laxative, e.g., Psyllium (act as bulk and lubricant).

2. As demulcent and emollient, e.g., Althea.

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