Question

The swelling index of a crude drug is used to evaluate the ____.

• A. presence of alkaloids
• B. moisture content
• C. mucilage content
• D. presence of volatile oils

Hint:

Swelling index = mucilage measure—used in assessing drugs like isabgol and linseed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The swelling index is an important parameter used to assess the mucilage content of a crude drug. Mucilage absorbs water and swells, hence this index reflects the amount of mucilage present—important for quality control of demulcent drugs.