Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Acacia Gum?

Deborah Walker
Deborah Walker

Acacia nilotica is a species of Acacia tree in the Fabaceae, or legume, family that is native to northern Africa and the Middle East. Acacia gum, which is produced by this and other species of the tree, has been used for hundreds of years as a medical treatment. Its side effects are usually mild, but it should not be taken at the same time as some medications. This product may be purchased in bulk or capsules, and the food industry uses it in some processed foods.

The Acacia gum tree is also known as Egyptian thorn and gum arabic. This gray-trunked tree grows 8 to 12 feet (2.4 to 3.7 m) high and has purple-yellow branches. It produces clusters of two to four yellow flowers along with a flat, pale brown legume. The legume grows to 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) long. White gum oozes from large branches and the trunk of this species beginning in December, about the time that the tree flowers, and just after the rainy season. Trees that appear sickly tend to produce the most gum.

Energy drinks may contain acacia gum.
Energy drinks may contain acacia gum.

Gum arabic has a soothing effect on mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. It may also be applied topically to wounds to further healing. In addition, research shows thatit may be useful for inhibiting periodontal bacteria and inhibiting plaque deposits on the teeth. Historically, Ayurvedic practitioners in India prescribed the gum as a treatment for premature ejaculation. Medical professionals in the Middle East used the gum as a general treatment for many different diseases and conditions. The ancient Egyptians added the gum to pain relievers.

Gum arabic, which is made from Acacia gum trees.
Gum arabic, which is made from Acacia gum trees.

Side effects include allergic reactions of the skin and respiratory system, and acacia gum may also raise overall serum cholesterol levels. It is, however, basically nontoxic for most people when taken internally. This treatment should not be taken with the antibiotic amoxicillin, since it can prevent the body from absorbing the antibiotic properly if taken simultaneously.

Acacia gum may be useful for inhibiting plaque deposits on teeth.
Acacia gum may be useful for inhibiting plaque deposits on teeth.

Pregnant or nursing women should consult a medical professional before taking the gum because not enough research has been done to determine if it could harm a baby. Individuals with chronic health conditions might consider speaking to a medical professional before using it.

Acacia gum is available to consumers as bulk powder, resin chunks, and in capsules. Prepared food companies put it into their products to add body, as a preservative, or as an anti-foaming agent. It may be used in cheeses, puddings, flavored yogurts, chocolate milk, sweets, ice cream and bakery products. Some preserved meat products, macaroni, and potato salad, vinegar, and mustard are also made with it. Manufacturers of beer, mead, energy drinks, cider, and wine coolers also add it to their products.

Discussion Comments

literally45

How is acacia gum used in printing and paint?

donasmrs

@ankara-- Acacia gum/arabic gum has become a popular ingredient because it's a really good emulsifier that dissolves in water. So any time that manufacturers need to balance the oil and water content in a product, they will use an emulsifier like acacia gum. It's also widely used in products with sugar because it helps prevent the crystallization of sugar, hence it's in your soda and candy.

The other good aspect of acacia gum is that it is low in calories and it has fiber in it.

bluedolphin

Thank you for this information. I have been noticing this ingredient in the foods I eat more and more often recently. It's in my soda, my fruit yogurt, my candies and chewing gum. I was worried as I usually am when I see an ingredient I don't recognize on a label.

I'm relieved to know that it is a natural product and doesn't have any major side effects. I prefer all-natural ingredients over synthetic, lab-made ones any day.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Energy drinks may contain acacia gum.
      Energy drinks may contain acacia gum.
    • Gum arabic, which is made from Acacia gum trees.
      By: lculig
      Gum arabic, which is made from Acacia gum trees.
    • Acacia gum may be useful for inhibiting plaque deposits on teeth.
      By: BVDC
      Acacia gum may be useful for inhibiting plaque deposits on teeth.
    • Historically, Ayurvedic practitioners in India prescribed acacia gum as a treatment for premature ejaculation.
      By: Iryna Volina
      Historically, Ayurvedic practitioners in India prescribed acacia gum as a treatment for premature ejaculation.
    • Acacia gum has been used in the past as treatment for premature ejcaulation.
      By: Ambrose
      Acacia gum has been used in the past as treatment for premature ejcaulation.
    • Gum arabic may be applied to wounds to help promote healing.
      By: wellphoto
      Gum arabic may be applied to wounds to help promote healing.
    • Nursing women should consult a doctor prior to using acacia gum.
      By: Dmitriy Melnikov
      Nursing women should consult a doctor prior to using acacia gum.