PRODUCTS

ARABINOGALACTAN

Arabinogalactan possesses a soft, balsamic terpenic odor, reminiscent of fresh conifer resins and cones.
Arabinogalactan is a turpentine type of a natural oleoresin.
Arabinogalactan occurs as a physiological secretion in the larch tree, Larix decidua, a conifer.

CAS Number: 9036-66-2
Molecular Formula: C20H36O14
Molecular Weight: 500.49144
EINECS Number: 232-910-0

Synonyms: 9036-66-2, Galactoarabinan, ARABINOGALACTAN, (+)-Arabinogalactan, (+)-Arabinogalactan from Larch Wood, (+)-Arabinogalactan from Larch Wood, 4-[6-[(3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxyoxan-2-yl)oxymethyl]-3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxyoxan-2-yl]oxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-methyloxane-3,5-diol, D-Galacto-L-arabinan, Larch arabinogalactan, DTXSID90864173, YL29121, E80438, 3-O-Methylpentopyranosyl-(1->6)-3-O-methylhexopyranosyl-(1->4)-2,6-anhydro-1-deoxyheptitol, STRACTAN, POLYARABINOGALACTAN, Galactoarabinan, d-galacto-l-arabinan, FEMA 3254, LARCOLL(TM), (+)-ARABINOGALACTAN, ARABINOGALACTAN

Arabinogalactan is a naturally occurring biopolymer composed primarily of two types of sugar molecules, namely arabinose and galactose, which are linked together to form a complex polysaccharide structure.
Arabinogalactan is commonly found in the cell walls of many plants, particularly in the wood of larch trees, from which it is most frequently extracted for commercial and research purposes.
The unique combination of arabinose and galactose units in arabinogalactan creates a highly branched, water-soluble fiber that exhibits interesting physicochemical properties, such as the ability to form gels and stabilize emulsions, making it valuable in various industrial applications.

Natural turpentine is obtained from tapping or scraping the wounds on a variety of coniferous trees.
Separating the essential oil and solid content of crude turpentine makes pure gum spirits.
The crude gum is heated, refined and separated by distillation into gum spirits and rosin.

From a biological perspective, arabinogalactan serves important roles in plants by contributing to the structural integrity of cell walls and participating in interactions with other cell wall components like lignin and cellulose.
Its complex branched structure allows it to interact with water molecules, thereby affecting the hydration and mechanical properties of plant tissues.
Beyond its botanical significance, arabinogalactan has gained considerable attention for its functional health benefits when consumed as a dietary fiber, as it is known to promote gut health by acting as a prebiotic—a substance that stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.

Industrially, arabinogalactan is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries due to its natural origin, biodegradability, and functional versatility.
In the food industry, it is employed as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in products such as dairy items, beverages, and bakery goods, where it enhances texture and consistency without affecting flavor.
The pharmaceutical industry utilizes arabinogalactan as a drug delivery agent and binder in tablet formulations, taking advantage of its biocompatibility and ability to improve the solubility and stability of active ingredients.

Moreover, its immunomodulatory properties have been studied, suggesting that arabinogalactan may help modulate the immune system and provide protective effects against infections.
In cosmetic formulations, arabinogalactan is valued for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties, contributing to the hydration and smoothness of the skin when included in creams, lotions, and serums.
Its natural, non-toxic profile appeals to manufacturers focused on producing products with botanical and environmentally friendly ingredients.

Dietary fiber that enhances immune system function by stimulating natural killer (NK) cell activity.
A water-soluble polysaccharide extracted from timber of the western larch trees.
Arabinogalactan is a complex, highly branched polymer of arabinose and galactose.

Arabinogalactan, also known as galactoarabinan, larch arabinogalactan, and larch gum, is a biopolymer consisting of arabinose and galactose monosaccharides.
Two classes of arabinogalactans are found in nature: plant arabinogalactan and microbial arabinogalactan.
In plants, it is a major component of many gums, including gum arabic and gum ghatti.

Arabinogalactan is often found attached to proteins, and the resulting arabinogalactan protein (AGP) functions as both an intercellular signaling molecule and a glue to seal plant wounds.
The microbial arabinogalactan is a major structural component of the mycobacterial cell wall.
Both the arabinose and galactose exist solely in the furanose configuration.

The galactan portion of microbial arabinogalactan is linear, consisting of approximately 30 units with alternating β-(1-5) and β-(1-6) glycosidic linkages.
The arabinan chain, which consists of about 30 residues, is attached at three branch points within the galactan chain, believed to be at residues 8, 10 and 12.
The arabinan portion of the polymer is a complex branched structure, usually capped with mycolic acids, the arabinan glycosidic linkages are α-(1-3), α-(1-5), and β-(1-2).

The mycobacterial arabinogalactan is recognized by a putative immune lectin intelectin present in chordates.
Arabinogalactan is a starch-like chemical that is found in many plants.
Arabinogalactan is found in highest concentrations in larch trees.

Most of the larch arabinogalactan found in stores is produced from western larch or eastern larch trees.
But larch arabinogalactan can also be produced by other larch tree species. Larch arabinogalactan is sometimes used for medicine.
Arabinogalactan is a starch-like chemical that is found in many plants, but it is found in highest concentrations in Larch trees.

Larch arabinogalactan is used for medicine.
Most of the larch arabinogalactan will find in stores is produced from Western Larch (Larch occidentalis).
However, larch arabinogalactan can also be produced by other larch tree species.

Due to its large molecular size and complex branching, arabinogalactan exhibits excellent water retention capabilities and film-forming properties, which also make it suitable for use in industrial adhesives, coatings, and as a component in biodegradable packaging materials.
Researchers continue to explore its potential in nanotechnology and biomedical fields, where its biocompatibility and functional groups allow for innovative applications such as targeted drug delivery and tissue engineering scaffolds.

Melting point: >200 °C (dec.) (lit.)
FEMA: 3254 | ARABINOGALACTAN
refractive index: 10° (C=1, H₂O)
storage temp.: 2–8 °C
solubility: H₂O: 50 mg/mL, clear to slightly hazy, faintly yellow
form: lyophilized powder
color: White to Pale Beige
Odor: at 100.00%, very mild balsam pine resin
Odor Type: balsamic
biological source: larch wood
Water Solubility: H₂O: 50 mg/mL, clear to slightly turbid, colorless to slightly brownish-yellow

Arabinogalactan (AGPs) are highly glycosylated proteins (glycoproteins) found in the cell walls of plants.
Each one consists of a protein with sugar molecules attached (which can account for more than 90% of the total mass).
They are members of the wider class of hydroxyproline (Hyp)-rich cell wall glycoproteins, a large and diverse group of glycosylated wall proteins.

Arabinogalactan have been reported in a wide range of higher plants in seeds, roots, stems, leaves and inflorescences.
Arabinogalactan account for only a small portion of the cell wall, usually no more than 1% of dry mass of the primary wall.
They have also been reported in secretions of cell culture medium of root, leaf, endosperm and embryo tissues, and some exudate producing cell types such as stylar canal cells are capable of producing lavish amounts of Arabinogalactan.

They are implicated in various aspects of plant growth and development, including root elongation, somatic embryogenesis, hormone responses, xylem differentiation, pollen tube growth and guidance, programmed cell death, cell expansion, salt tolerance, host-pathogen interactions, and cellular signaling.
Approximately one of the three Arabinogalactan chains attached to the galactan chain contains succinyl groups.

Although one succinyl group is most common, up to three succinyl groups per released arabinan fragment can be found on oligo-arabinans.
However, Arabinogalactan fragments substituted with GalNH2 are not succinylated.
Importantly, in the case of M. tuberculosis, and most likely in all slow growing organisms, both positive charge (protonated GalNH2 as GalNH3+) and negative charge (succinyl) are present in the middle regions of the arabinan, specically at O-2 of the inner 3,5-α-D-Araf units.

The succinyl residues are on the non-mycolylated chain.
Recently, a complete primary model of arabinogalactan has been proposed.
Arabinogalactan is a biopolymer consisting of arabinose and galactose monosaccharides.

Two classes of arabinogalactans are found in nature: plant arabinogalactan and microbial arabinogalactan.
In plants, it is a major component of many gums, including gum arabic and gum ghatti.
Arabinogalactan is often found attached to proteins, and the resulting arabinogalactan protein (AGP) functions as both an intercellular signaling molecule and a glue to seal plant wounds.

The microbial arabinogalactan is a major structural component of the mycobacterial cell wall.
Both the arabinose and galactose exist solely in the furanose conguration.
The galactan portion of microbial arabinogalactan is linear, consisting of approximately 30 units with alternating β-(1-5) and β-(1-6) glycosidic linkages.

The reducing end of microbial arabinogalactan consists of the terminal sequence →5)-D-Galf-(1→4)-L-Rhap-(1→3)-D-GlcNAc.
A muramyl-6-P is also found within the peptidoglycan functional group.
The Arabinogalactan of mycobacteria is attached to the peptidoglycan by the actinomycete-specific diglycosylphosphoryl bridge, L-Rhap-(1→3)-D-GlcNAc-(1→P).

Arabinogalactan contains a galactan chain, with alternating 5-linked β-D-galactofuranosyl (Galf) and 6-linked β-D-Galf residues.
The arabinan chains are attached to C-5 of some of the 6-linked Galf residues.
There are three major structural domains for arabinan.

The first is a domain consisting of linear 5-linked α-D-Araf residues.
The second is a domain with branched 3,5 linked α-D-Araf residues substituted with 5-linked α-D-Araf units at both branched positions, and the third is A terminal non-reducing domain for end arabinan consisting of a 3,5-linked α-D-Araf residue substituted at both branched positions with the disaccharide β-D Araf-(1→2)- α-D-Araf.
These three arabinan chains are attached to the galactan at residues 8, 10, and 12.

The non-reducing end of arabinogalactan is covalently attached to the mycolic acids of the outer membrane.
The hydrophobicity of mycolic acids is a barrier to drug entry.
Additionally, the mycolyl arabinogalactan peptidoglycan is responsible for aspects of disease pathogenesis and much of the antibody response in infections.

The mycolyl substituents are selectively and equally distributed on the 5-hydroxyl functions of terminal- and the penultimate 2-linked Araf residues.
The mycolyl residues are clustered in groups of four on the non reducing terminal pentaarabinosyl unit (β-Araf-(1→2)-α-Araf)2-3,5-α-Araf.
Thus, the majority (66%) of the pentaarabinosyl units are substituted by mycolic acids, leaving the minority (33%) available for interaction with the immune system.

Approximately one of the three arabinosyl chains attached to the galactan chain contains succinyl groups.
Although one succinyl group is most common, up to three succinyl groups per released arabinan fragment can be found on oligo-arabinans.
However, arabinan fragments substituted with GalNH2 are not succinylated.

Importantly, in the case of M. tuberculosis, and most likely in all slow growing organisms, both positive charge (protonated GalNH2 as GalNH3+) and negative charge (succinyl) are present in the middle regions of the arabinan, specifically at O-2 of the inner 3,5-α-D-Araf units.
The succinyl residues are on the non-mycolylated chain. Recently, a complete primary model of arabinogalactan has been proposed.

Uses:
Arabinogalactan is a multi-functional ingredient with humectant and exfoliating properties.
In aqueous solutions, gA can deposit a clear film, creating or helping to create an occlusive environment, preventing transepidermal water loss and enhancing the functionality of a formulation’s active ingredients.
In humid conditions gA acts as a moisture binder, and in dry conditions, it is able to retain moisture, further inhibiting moisture loss from the skin.

Additionally, gA can improve particle dispersion and the uniformity of emulsion droplets resulting in a more stable emulsion and potentially more efficacious formulation, particularly in the case of sunscreens.
In vitro and in vivo studies indicate possible benefit to the immune system given an ability to enhance Langerhans cell proliferation and cytokine production.
Arabinogalactan has been shown to boost AHA exfoliation activity without increasing skin irritation, and it also exhibits its own exfoliant properties independent of AHA presence in a formulation, thereby helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Arabinogalactan is a polysaccharide found in all plants and is the dominant sugar of the western larch tree.
Arabinogalactan is a gum, being the plant extract obtained from larch trees.
Arabinogalactan is soluble in hot and cold water, the water solutions up to 60% being fluid and above 60% forming a thick paste.

Arabinogalactan is stable over a wide ph range and is relatively unaffected by electrolytes.
Arabinogalactans limited uses include dressings and pudding mixes.
Arabinogalactan is also termed larch gum.

Arabinogalactan finds extensive applications across multiple industries due to its unique physicochemical properties, natural origin, and biological activity, making it a versatile ingredient in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial formulations.
In the food industry, arabinogalactan is commonly used as a functional dietary fiber and a natural food additive that acts as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickening agent, which improves the texture, mouthfeel, and shelf life of various products such as dairy beverages, yogurts, bakery items, and low-fat spreads.

Because of its ability to dissolve easily in water and form viscous solutions, it enhances the consistency and stability of emulsions and suspensions without imparting undesirable flavors, thus supporting the development of healthier food products that meet modern consumer demands.
In the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields, arabinogalactan is employed as a carrier agent for drug delivery, where its biocompatibility and water solubility aid in improving the bioavailability and controlled release of active pharmaceutical ingredients.

Arabinogalactan is also valued for its immune-modulating properties, as studies have indicated that arabinogalactan may stimulate the activity of macrophages and other immune cells, thereby supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms against infections and diseases.
Consequently, it is often included in dietary supplements aimed at boosting immune health and promoting digestive wellness through its prebiotic effects, which help foster the growth of beneficial gut microbiota.

Within the cosmetic industry, arabinogalactan is incorporated into skin care and personal care products for its moisturizing, soothing, and film-forming capabilities.
It contributes to the hydration of the skin by forming a protective barrier that reduces water loss while providing a smooth and soft texture to creams, lotions, serums, and hair care products.
Due to its natural origin and non-irritating profile, arabinogalactan is particularly favored in formulations designed for sensitive skin and “clean-label” beauty products.

Beyond these sectors, arabinogalactan is also used in industrial applications such as adhesives, coatings, and biodegradable packaging materials, where its excellent film-forming ability and water retention properties are harnessed to improve product performance and environmental sustainability.
Researchers are actively exploring its potential in advanced biomedical applications, including tissue engineering and targeted drug delivery systems, because its biocompatibility and chemical structure allow for modification and functionalization suitable for these high-tech uses.

arabinogalactan—as a natural, biodegradable, and biologically active polysaccharide—has driven its adoption in diverse applications where both performance and sustainability are critical considerations, reflecting its growing importance in contemporary science and industry.
Arabinogalactan’s versatility as a naturally derived polysaccharide has made it an increasingly important ingredient in a variety of industries, where its functional, biological, and physicochemical properties can be harnessed to create innovative and sustainable products.
In the food sector, arabinogalactan is extensively employed not only as a stabilizer and thickening agent but also as a source of soluble dietary fiber that promotes digestive health by fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thus improving gastrointestinal function and potentially aiding in the management of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.

Its ability to improve texture and mouthfeel in reduced-fat or reduced-sugar food formulations makes it particularly valuable in the development of healthier alternatives that do not compromise sensory quality, helping manufacturers respond to growing consumer demand for nutritious yet enjoyable food options.
In the realm of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, arabinogalactan is prized for its biocompatibility and immune-modulating effects, which have been the focus of numerous scientific studies demonstrating its capacity to stimulate innate immune responses by activating macrophages and enhancing cytokine production.

These immunostimulatory properties make arabinogalactan an attractive ingredient in dietary supplements designed to support immune function, particularly in populations vulnerable to infections or with compromised immunity.
Furthermore, its role as a drug delivery excipient is under active exploration; arabinogalactan’s water solubility and non-toxic nature enable it to encapsulate or bind active pharmaceutical ingredients, enhancing their stability, solubility, and controlled release within the human body, which is critical for improving therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance.

Safety Profile:
When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
Arabinogalactan is generally regarded as a safe and non-toxic natural polysaccharide, widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products without significant adverse effects.

However, like many natural biopolymers, there are some considerations and potential hazards to keep in mind, especially when arabinogalactan is handled in concentrated form or as a powdered substance.
One of the primary concerns in occupational settings is the risk of respiratory irritation and sensitization caused by inhalation of fine arabinogalactan dust, which can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or nasal discomfort in susceptible individuals.
Therefore, adequate ventilation and use of personal protective equipment, such as dust masks, are recommended when working with dry powders to minimize airborne exposure.

Although allergic reactions to arabinogalactan are rare, there is a potential for hypersensitivity or allergic responses in people who are sensitive to plant-derived substances, especially if the material contains impurities or residual proteins from its source.
Ingestion of large amounts of arabinogalactan, far exceeding typical dietary intake levels, could cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea due to its high fiber content and fermentation by gut bacteria.
These effects are generally mild and transient but should be considered when formulating high-dose dietary supplements.