Tragacanth gum, commonly known as gond katira is a gum naturally obtained from the extract (sap) of the various species of the herb Astragalus. The gum is viscous (jelly-like), odourless (with no smell), and tasteless. Tragacanth gum is soluble in water and is obtained mainly from the root of the plant. In water, "gond katira" forms a gel-like substance that can be made into a paste. Tragacanth gum has been used largely in Ayurveda as a herbal medicine particularly for its cooling and digestive properties.
The species of Astragalus from which gond katira is obtained are Astragalus adscendens, Astragalus brachycalyx, Astragalus tragacanthus, and Astragalus gummifer. These species are native to the middle eastern region of the world. The gum is majorly produced in Iran and also has extensive use in Persian medicine. Astragalus plants are usually herbs or small shrubs. The name tragacanth is obtained from the Greek words ‘tragos’ (goat) and ‘akantha’ (horn).
Some basic facts about tragacanth gum ("gond katira")
- Name: Tragacanth gum ("gond katira")
- Obtained From: Species of Astragalus
- Plant Part Used: Root sap (dried)
- Common Name: Shiraz, Shiraz gum, gum dragon
- Sanskrit Name: Galgal
- Native Region and Geographical Distribution: Middle eastern region of the world.