Compound Monograph
Pectin
Pectin is a structural plant polysaccharide and soluble dietary fiber, widely used as a gelling agent.
Sources · 6
Where Does It Come From?
Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (soluble fiber), found in Marshmallow, Apples, Citrus peel and 3 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Principal source Marshmallow Althaea officinalis Herb monograph → 
Source Passion Fruit Passiflora edulis Herb monograph → 
Source Passionflower Passiflora incarnata Herb monograph → Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Pectin is a complex polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants, especially in fruits such as apples and citrus and in mucilaginous herbs like marshmallow. It is a form of soluble dietary fiber and is best known commercially as the gelling agent used to set jams and jellies. As a fiber it adds bulk and viscosity in the gut, can slow digestion, and is fermented by gut bacteria; it has been studied for modest effects on cholesterol and blood sugar.
Toxicity & Safety
Pectin is a normal component of fruit and a long-established food ingredient, and is regarded as very low in toxicity. As with any concentrated fiber, large amounts taken suddenly may cause bloating or digestive discomfort, and adequate fluid intake is sensible.
