Pharmaceutical excipients of natural origin are those extracted directly from natural sources-such as plants, animals, or minerals-without undergoing chemical synthesis or modification. Generally characterized by a high safety profile, they represent the oldest class of excipients used in pharmaceutical formulations.
Plant-Derived Natural Excipients
Starches: Corn starch, potato starch, and wheat starch are classic tablet fillers that also serve as binders and disintegrant aids.
Plant Gums: Gum arabic, xanthan gum, pectin, and agar are commonly used as suspending agents, thickening agents, and emulsion stabilizers.
Cellulose-Based Products: Microcrystalline cellulose and powdered cellulose act as structural fillers (matrices) for tablets while also providing excellent disintegration properties.
Other Plant Extracts: Sucrose, glucose, mannitol (when derived from natural sources), peppermint oil, and honey can be used as flavoring agents or sweeteners.
Animal-Derived Natural Excipients
Gelatin: A hydrolysate of collagen extracted from animal bones or hides; it serves as the primary material for hard and soft capsules and can also function as a suspending agent or a carrier for microencapsulation.
Insect Wax and Beeswax: Purified from insect secretions, these are commonly used as ointment bases or as release-retarding agents in sustained-release formulations.
Lanolin: A lipid substance extracted from sheep's wool; it is a classic oleaginous base for topical (transdermal) ointments and possesses excellent skin compatibility.
