ABSTRACT
Polysaccharides or glycans are high-molecular-weight polymers consisting of chains of sugars with chemical linkages. The simplest polysaccharides are cellulose and starch, which are polymers of glucose only. Pectin has similar properties to gums-it adsorbs toxins, cholesterol and acts as a bulk laxative agent. Pectins are complex galactouronic acid-based carbohydrates found in the plant cell wall of many fruits, for example apples, citrus. Polysaccharides are insoluble in organic solvents—they precipitate in alcohol. Tinctures, which are made using alcoholic solvents of 45% strength or higher, are therefore of little use where demulcent or emollient effects are required. The soothing, demulcent effects of gums and mucilages also benefit irritable states of the urinary and respiratory tract. Take, for example, the widespread use of marshmallow or Irish moss for bronchitis, and soothing preparations such as barley water for cystitis. Fructans are polymers of fructose stored in some plants as reserve material instead of starch.
