Other names for Hydroxypropyl cellulose

100% pure hypromellose
high and low viscosity hydroxypropyl methyl-cellulose
hmpc
hpc
hpmc
hpmc (hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose)
hydoxypropyl cellulose
hydroxypropyl cellulose
hydroxypropylcellulose
hydroxypropyl methylcellose
{hydroxy} propyl methyl cellulose
hydroxy-propyl methylcellulose
hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose
hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose
hydroxypropylmethylcellulose
hypromellose
hypromellose capsule
hyproxypropyl cellulose
l-hpc
l-hydroxypropyl cellulose
low substituted hydroxypropyl-cellulose
methocel
non-gmo hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose
non-gmo hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
propyl methyl cellulose
vegetable hydroxypropyl cellulose
vegetable stearate hypromellose
vegetarian hpmc

Synopsis of Hydroxypropyl cellulose

History

Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) is a semi-synthetic derivative of cellulose, the primary structural component in plant cell walls. Although HPC itself is a relatively modern pharmaceutical excipient, its roots can be traced back to the historical use of cellulose and plant fibers in traditional medicine. For centuries, natural plant gums and fibers were incorporated into remedies as binders, thickeners, and delivery agents for herbal preparations. This long-standing tradition set the stage for the development and acceptance of cellulose derivatives like HPC in medicinal applications.

First introduced in the mid-20th century, hydroxypropyl cellulose quickly gained recognition for its exceptional safety, versatility, and functional properties. In the realm of medicinal products, HPC has been prized for its ability to improve the texture, stability, and bioavailability of active ingredients. It is widely used as a binder in tablets, a thickener in syrups, and a film-former in various drug delivery systems. These properties have made it invaluable in both conventional and alternative medicine, ensuring consistent dosing and enhancing the effectiveness of herbal remedies.

Hydroxypropyl cellulose also plays a positive role in herbal combinations, where it acts as a carrier and stabilizer for botanical extracts. Its inclusion helps blend disparate herbal ingredients into cohesive, easy-to-administer formats, such as capsules and powders, while preserving the potency of active compounds. Its inertness ensures it does not react with delicate phytochemicals, thereby maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the herbal mixture. Overall, hydroxypropyl cellulose stands as a testament to how modern science can amplify the benefits of traditional herbal medicine, improving patient experience and therapeutic outcomes.

Traditional and scientific validation

Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) is a modified cellulose polymer widely utilized in the pharmaceutical and food industries, including as an ingredient in nutritional products. Historically, HPC emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily as a binder, thickener, and stabilizer due to its excellent solubility and safety profile. Its inclusion in nutritional formulations is mainly attributed to its functional properties, such as improving texture, enhancing mouthfeel, and stabilizing emulsions and suspensions.

Scientifically, HPC is recognized as generally safe for consumption, supported by toxicological studies and regulatory approvals by agencies such as the FDA and EFSA. Research indicates that HPC is minimally absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and is largely excreted unchanged, which contributes to its favorable safety profile. Some studies have investigated its use as a dietary fiber substitute, noting that it may increase stool bulk and promote regularity, though its physiological effects appear milder than naturally occurring fibers.

Clinical studies specifically examining health outcomes from HPC supplementation in humans are limited, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits beyond its technological roles. However, its positive contributions to product stability, palatability, and consistency have made it a valuable component in nutritional products. Overall, while direct health effects remain to be firmly established, hydroxypropyl cellulose continues to play an important supportive role in the development of safe, palatable, and effective nutritional products.

Hydroxypropyl cellulose is used for these health conditions

Eye Problems (Scientific)
Eyes (red or itching) (Scientific)

This ingredient is used to support these body systems

None

Products containing Hydroxypropyl cellulose

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.