Review on novel pharmaceutical applications of hupu gum: A versatile natural polymer

HIGHLIGHTS center dot Hupu gum is a tree exudate from Cochlospermum religiosum (L.) Alston with unique physicochemical properties. center dot The highlights of the review provide a snapshot of the key aspects on hupu gum, emphasizing its natural origin, geographical distribution, novel pharmaceutical applications, recent research findings and patents, biocompatibility and non-toxic nature. center dot The compilation of knowledge aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders interested in exploring the untapped benefits of hupu gum. center dot Future research directions focus on exploring novel applications of hupu gum in biomedicine, nanotechnology and targeted drug delivery. The pharmaceutical research on natural excipients with diverse physicochemical properties useful in various novel drug delivery systems is a growing interest. The market for natural gums like hupu gum (gum kondagogu) is growing globally, driven by increasing consumer preference for natural and sustainable ingredients. This review covers botanical origin, geographical distribution, chemical constituents, identification tests, toxicology studies and potential applications of hupu gum in novel drug delivery systems. Emphasis is placed on its traditional uses in indigenous medicine and current research findings and patents that highlight its emulsifying, stabilizing, film forming, and thickening properties. Hupu gum is a tree exudate from Cochlospermum religiosum belonging to the family Bixaceae. It is traditionally used for various medicinal and industrial purposes as it has a unique chemical composition and physical properties. Moreover, the current research and use of hupu gum as a biopolymer in the formulation and stabilization of nanoparticles (NP) is expanding the application spectrum of hupu gum. This writeup typically conclude with insights into future research directions, such as, exploring new applications, or enhancing its functional properties through modification. (c) 2024 Acade<acute accent>mie Nationale de Pharmacie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.