Qualitative and quantitative gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis and characterization of naturally isolated mucilage in Hibiscus cannabinus L. (Malvaceae)

Deccan hemp is rich in mucilage and of immense value. This study was performed to examine the mucilage of Deccan hemp and its (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy) analysis was performed to identify the presence of sugar composition in mucilage for the development of pharmaceutical formulation. Mucilage was found to be 9.54% w/w which was off white in colour, tasteless and with characteristic odour. Physicochemical characterization revealed that mucilage has enough moisture that is 9.34 % w/w and is of neutral pH. It was found to be soluble in hot water and insoluble in organic solvents while in cold water mucilage swelled to form a gel. The GC-MS analysis of mucilage showed the presence of glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose and xylose that scope to be of scientific relevance particularly plant polymer based excipient and coating material in pharmaceutical products. The present investigation showed that Deccan hemp mucilage has high pharmaceutical significance it can be used as excipient and coating material in pharmaceutical formulation.