What chemical description characterizes mucilage found in mallow?

Answer

A complex mixture of glycoproteins and polysaccharides

Mucilage is characterized chemically as a highly complex substance, not a simple sugar or single compound. Specifically, it is defined as a complex mixture comprising both glycoproteins (molecules with attached carbohydrate chains) and various polysaccharides. These are large biological molecules that contribute heavily to the viscous, gel-forming properties when hydrated. It is this intricate chemical structure that allows mucilage to interact with water to create the soothing, slimy gel essential for mallow's demulcent actions internally and emollient actions externally. The presence of these complex carbohydrates and proteins is what distinguishes mucilage from simpler plant extracts.

What chemical description characterizes mucilage found in mallow?

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