Applications of Natural Polymer Gum Arabic: A Review

Gum arabic is the complex exudate of the Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal tree. This dried sap with immense commercial value is a global commodity, generally harvested in Africa and Western Asia. Non-digestibility, low solution viscosity, and generally recognized as safe status renders its popularity in the food industries. For its desirable emulsifying, stabilizing, binding, and shelf-life enhancing properties, it has found application in many foods. Current literature suggests its cardio-, reno-, gut-, and dental- protective, satiety-inducing, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant implications. Its foray into drug delivery, sensor, tumor imaging, and nano-technology has met with appreciable success, fueling further investigation into its unexplored functionality. The objective of this review was to highlight the recently-unraveled pharmacological potential of this gum with an aim to provide holistic information on its wide spectrum of utility and prospects.