Investigation of Optimal Tapping Method for Moringa oleifera Gum Production and Its Influence on Physical Characteristics

Traditional gum tapping in M. oleifera involves making multiple injuries using sharp tools which are tedious and risk of tree death due to infections. The present study aimed to standardize a more sustainable method for gum tapping in moringa. The experiment tested various methods: mechanical tapping, chemical tapping with different concentrations of ethephon, and tapping seasons (Winter and Summer). Among all the treatment combinations, the summer season (S1) combined with T5 (4 ml) resulted in the highest fresh gum yield (355.47 g/tree) and dry gum yield (320.53 g/tree). This was followed by S1T4, which produced 261.67 g/tree (fresh) and 237.01 g/tree (dry). The preformulation studies also expressed its applicability in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries and ensured safety by responding to different physical characteristics. The chemical tapping method using 4 ml of ethephon per tree during summer season proved to produce high gum yield and effective without altering the physical characteristics of the gum.