Compound Monograph

Mucilage

Mucilage is a class of viscous, water-binding plant polysaccharides responsible for the soothing, demulcent action of many herbs.

Work in progress

Classification

Mucilage are a class of plant constituents. Gel-forming polysaccharides that soothe and protect mucous membranes — the basis of demulcent herbs.

Carbohydrates Mucilage

Where Does It Come From? (16)

Plants and supplements in the database that list mucilage among their constituents.

Buchu Agathosma betulina Burdock Arctium lappa Codonopsis Codonopsis pilosula Coltsfoot Tussilago farfara Couchgrass Elytrigia repens Flaxseed German Chamomile Matricaria chamomilla Hibiscus Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linden flower Marshmallow Althaea officinalis Mullein Verbascum thapsus PlantainPsyllium Slippery Elm Ulmus fulva Slippery elm, flax and many other plants Walnut Juglans nigra

Research & Evidence

Mucilage is not a single molecule but a family of complex, gel-forming polysaccharides that many plants produce. When mixed with water it swells into a slippery, viscous substance, which is the basis of the “demulcent” herbs — plants such as marshmallow, mullein and slippery elm that are traditionally used to coat and soothe irritated mucous membranes of the throat and digestive tract. Mucilage also contributes to the bulking and laxative action of seeds like flax and psyllium.

Toxicity & Safety

Mucilaginous plant material is generally very well tolerated and is the active principle behind many gentle soothing remedies. Because mucilage can form a coating in the gut, it may slow the absorption of other medicines taken at the same time, so separating doses is sensible.