Evaluation of microcrystalline cellulose modifed from alpha-cellulose obtained from Costus afer

Alpha cellulose was obtained from Costus afer and part of it was modified to microcrystalline cellulose (CAMCC). The physicochemical properties of the microcrystalline cellulose were determined and compared with those of commercial microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel 101). The swelling capacity, hydration capacity, loss on drying, true, bulk and tapped densities were 36.0 %, 5.47 %, 1.00 %, 1.198 g/ml, 0.271 g/ml, and 0.342 g/ml for CAMCC and 25.0 %, 5.10 %, 0.80 %, 1.21 g/ml, 0.291 g/ml and 0.387 g/ml respectively for Avicel 101. The CAMCC had no organic impurities, starch, and dextrins and was soluble in tetramine copper dihydroxide. It is an odourless, white, tasteless powder which conformed to the standard specification for microcrystalline cellulose. From the physicochemical properties CAMCC can act as a good disintegrant in tablet and granule formulations. Costus afer can be a good source of alpha-cellulose for pharmaceutical applicationsKeywords: Costus afer, alpha-cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, physicochemical properties, phytochemical analysisJournal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences, Vol. 7 No. 5 (2010