Acacia Catechu Gum

1. Definition Acacia Catechu Gum:

Acacia Catechu Gum, also known as Cutch or Khair, is a natural plant-derived gum extracted from the heartwood of Acacia catechu tree. It is commonly used in cosmetics for its thickening, emulsifying, and stabilizing properties.

2. Use:

Acacia Catechu Gum is used in cosmetics as a binding agent in various formulations such as creams, lotions, and gels. It helps to improve the texture of the product and enhance its overall performance. Additionally, it is known for its skin-soothing and antioxidant properties, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products.

3. Usage Acacia Catechu Gum:

When using Acacia Catechu Gum in cosmetics, it is important to follow the recommended usage levels provided by the manufacturer. It is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 5% depending on the formulation. It is recommended to dissolve the gum in water or oil phase before incorporating it into the product to ensure proper dispersion.

Precautions: While Acacia Catechu Gum is generally considered safe for topical use, it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new cosmetic product to check for any potential allergic reactions. It is also important to store products containing Acacia Catechu Gum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its stability.

4. References:

- Shukla, A., Rasik, A. M., Dhawan, B. N. (1999). Asiaticoside-induced elevation of antioxidant levels in healing wounds. Phytotherapy Research, 13(1), 50-54.

- Kaur, S., Michael, H., Arora, S., Härkönen, P. L., Kumar, S., (2012). The in vitro cytotoxic and apoptotic activity of Triphala—an Indian herbal drug. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(2), 616-623.

- Anand, R., Patnaik, G. K. (1997). Antifungal activity of Acacia catechu. Fitoterapia, 68(4), 371-372.