Natural exudate gum from ghatti tree (Anogeissus latifolia): A review on production, processing and marketing

Gum ghatti (GG) is a natural polysaccharide produced from ghatti tree (Anogeissus latifolia). Chemically, the gum is composed of several mono-sugars and uronic acids in the form of calcium and magnesium salts. GG contains soluble and insoluble fractions, which form a thick colloidal solution in water. GG is non-toxic, bio-degradable, and biocompatible to the human digestive system. It finds applications as an emulsifier, stabilizer, binder, thickener, moisture retainer, film-forming agent and a raw material for hydrogel synthesis. The gradual change in the human mindset has increased demand for natural gums like GG to overcome the adverse effects of synthetic additives. As ghatti trees are found in the forest or non-agricultural lands, its gum collection and sales provide an alternate source of sustainable livelihood to the economically backward and resource-constrained population inhabiting forest and sub-forest areas. This review is a unique article covering the literature on production aspects like tree description, importance, GG tapping, production, processing, and marketing. The review of such an important natural product will be useful for researchers, stakeholders, policymakers, and others working in natural resins and gums sector.