Abstract: Pectins from gel and rind cell wall fibers of Aloe vera are extracted, isolated and identified. Two classes of Aloe pectin are obtained: the high-molecular-weight (HMW) pectin and the low-molecular-weight (LMW) pectin. Aloe pectins have a low methoxyl (LM) content. Aloe pectins form gel in the presence of calcium, and they, especially, the HMW pectin, form monovalent cation-based gels at low temperature, which revert back to solution when brought to room temperature. The HMW Aloe pectin-calcium gel is used for controlled release. The monovalent cation-based gel is used as a matrix for storing pharmacological substances and also for antigen and antibody precipitation reaction.

Abstract: A method of adhering a denture, having a biocontact surface, to a gum or a roof of a mouth, containing the steps of: (1) Treating the biocontact surface of the denture with a denture adhesive composition containing a chemical substance derived from an aloe leaf to obtain a treated denture; and (2) placing the treated denture in close proximity to a gum or the roof of the mouth thereby engaging the treated denture with the gum or the roof of the mouth. A method of preparing a denture adhesive composition containing a chemical substance derived from an aloe leaf.