Alternate Names

Guaiacum, Guaiac Gum, Gum Guaiac, Guaiacum

Description

Gum which is obtained from the resin of the Guaiacum tree which is native to the Caribbean and South America.

Additional Information

Used as an antioxidant and a flavoring. Little is known about this plant and studies are being conducted to explore possible anti-carcinogenic properties.

Found In

oils, fats, beverages, lard, shortening, alcoholic beverages

Possible Health Effects

unknown (see additional information section)

Allergy Information

Unknown

Online Resources/Related

• Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for gastrointestinal disorders., March 18, 2009, Castillo-Ju
• The Journal of Heredity, Genetic diversity in the endangered tropical tree, Guaiacum sanctum (Zygophyllaceae)., 2010, Fuchs EJ, Hamrick JL.
• US Food and Drug Administration, Code of Federal Regulations Title 21: Natural flavoring substances and natural substances used in conjunction with flavors., Revised April 1, 2009, US Food and Drug Administration

Print Resources

• Winter, Ruth. A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives, 7th Edition: Descriptions in Plain English of More Than 12,000 Ingredients Both Harmful and Desirable Found in Foods. Three Rivers Press, 2009
• Statham, Bill. Eat Safe: The Truth about Additives from Aspartame to Xanthan Gum. Running Press, 2008
• Minich, Deanna M. An A-Z Guide to Food Additives: Never Eat What You Can't Pronounce. Conari Press, 2009

Copyright September 7, 2010 Be Food Smart