Abstract

Deepthi Mathew*, Aswani A., Ashita Cicily Joshy, Christy Jose, Sherly Eapen and Sini Syriac

ABSTRACT

Tamarind gum is a polysaccharide extracted from seed endosperm of the plant, Tamarindus indica. It is a neutral, non ionic and branched polysaccharide having water solubility, hydrophilic, gel forming and mucoadhesive property. In addition tamarind gum is biodegradable, biocompatible, non carcinogenic and non irritant. Tamarind gum is employed as a potential biopolymer in the fields of pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food applications. In the recent years, it is widely tested and employed in various drug delivery applications as effective pharmaceutical excipients. Tamarind gum is being exploited in the formulation of oral, colon, ocular, buccal and nasal drug delivery system.

Keywords: Tamarind Gum Polysaccharide, Excipients, Drug Delivery, Plant polysaccharide.