Evidence supporting the use of: Tragacanth
For the body system: Mucus Membranes
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Tragacanth is a natural gum obtained from the dried sap of several species of Middle Eastern legumes of the genus Astragalus. Its use to support the mucus membranes is rooted primarily in traditional medicine. Historically, tragacanth gum has been valued for its soothing, demulcent properties, which means it can coat and protect irritated or inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. This action is attributed to its high mucilage content, which swells and forms a gel-like layer when mixed with water. Traditional systems such as Unani and Ayurvedic medicine have recommended tragacanth for conditions involving dryness or irritation of the mucus membranes, including sore throat, cough, and gastrointestinal inflammation.
However, scientific studies directly investigating tragacanth’s effects on human mucus membranes are lacking. Modern pharmacology recognizes its inert, non-toxic nature and its ability to form a viscous, protective barrier, but most research and applications focus on its role as a pharmaceutical excipient or food additive rather than as an active remedy. Thus, while its historical use as a demulcent is well-established, there is limited scientific validation for its specific therapeutic effects on mucus membranes.
In summary, the support for tragacanth gum as beneficial to mucus membranes is primarily traditional, based on its physical properties and long-standing use, rather than on robust clinical evidence.
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bilberry
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broccoli
ceramides
chamomile
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glehnia root
glycerin
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lactobacillus crispatus
lactobacillus jensenii
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lactoferrin
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methylmethionine sulfonium chloride (vitamin U)
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mixed carotenoids
mucin
n-acetyl-glucosamine
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
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niacin (vitamin B3)
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sorbitol
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vitamin A
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boneset
mullein
chickweed
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Bee products
Borage
Balloon Flower
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Colloidal Silver
Cod Liver Oil
Carvacrol
Citrus
Cineole
Cornflower
Cajuput
Cantaloupe
Catechu
Centipeda
Cistus
Cubeb
Cowslip
Cranesbill
Carotene (unspecified)
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Collinsonia
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Eucheuma
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Flavanones
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Fireweed
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Grindelia
Glechoma hederacea
Glycosaminoglycans
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Other body systems supported by Tragacanth
Digestive SystemGastrointestinal Tract
Intestinal System
Mucus Membranes