Karaya Gum

Drug Details

Karaya gum, also known as gum sterculia or Indian gum tragacanth, is a natural exudate obtained from trees of the *Sterculia* genus, particularly *Sterculia urens*. This gum is widely utilized in the food industry as a thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying agent, enhancing the texture and consistency of products like ice creams, sauces, and baked goods. In the pharmaceutical sector, karaya gum serves as a bulk-forming laxative, aiding in relieving constipation by swelling in the intestine to stimulate bowel movements. Additionally, it is used as a binder in tablet formulations and as an adhesive in denture products. While generally considered safe when consumed in typical food amounts, excessive intake without adequate fluids may lead to intestinal blockage. Therefore, it's important to consume karaya gum with sufficient water to ensure safety.