Guar gum is a natural nonionic polysaccharide derived from the seeds of Cymompsis tetraganolobus (family: Leguminaceae). Chemically, guar gum is a galactomannan type of polysaccharide having very high molecular weight. Due to its unique rheology modifying properties, it is being widely used across a broad spectrum of industries viz. oil well drilling, textile, paper, paint, cement, cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical etc. The aim of this review is to give a brief overview to the role of natural polymer in the development of drug delivery system. The use of guar gum is valuable based on proven biocompatibility and safety. Guar gum is most popular polysaccharide polymer because of their cost-effectiveness and regulatory acceptance. Moreover, guar gum is safe, nontoxic, biodegradable, easy availability and capable of chemical modification to deliver active pharmaceutical ingredients. The wider application of guar gum is due to its unique features such as high swelling, water retention capacity, high viscosity properties and abundant availability.
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