Phytochemical Dictionary: A Handbook of Bioactive Compounds from Plants, Second Edition
Agar-agar; Bengal isinglass; Ceylon isinglass; Chinese isinglass; Gelose; Japan agar; Japan isinglass; Layor carang
The chemical structure is a mixture of two related polysaccharides: agarose, containing D- and L-galactose, 6-methylgalactose, xylose and 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose; and agaropectin, based on D-galactose, 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose and glucuronic acid, which is sulfated.
[9002–18–0]
Obtained from the agarocytes of red algae (Rhodophyceae) (notably Acanthopeltis, Ceranium, Gelidium, Gracilaria, and Pterocladia spp.), and also from species of Gelidiaceae and Sphaerococcaceae.
It is a food gelling and thickening agent and stabiliser and a substitute for gelatin. It is used medically in making capsules and ointments. Industrial uses are corrosion inhibition, dyeing and printing of fabrics, and sizing of paper. Veterinary use is as a laxative for cats and dogs.
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