- Derived from: chicory
- Pronunciation: (kär-ˌbäk-sē \ˈin-yə-lən\)
- Type: Naturally-derived
What Is Carboxymethyl Inulin?
Carboxymethyl inulin is a water softener and pH adjuster derived from chicory root extract.[1] The leaves of the chicory plant are sometimes known as endive.[2]
What Does Carboxymethyl Inulin Do?
Carboxymethyl inulin acts as an aid in removing the calcium and magnesium ions that cause hard water.[3] This boosts the cleaning power of detergents.[4]
How Carboxymethyl Inulin Is Made
Carboxymethyl inulin is commonly produced by glycolytic oxidation of inulin.[5]
Why Puracy Uses Carboxymethyl inulin
We use carboxymethyl inulin as a water softener to temporarily reduce the surface tension of water. This creates a sheeting effect which helps suds and grime rinse away quickly and completely. The ingredient also reduces:
- water consumption
- the amount of mineral deposits left to dry on surfaces
- the need to rinse repeatedly to get soap off, and
Is Carboxymethyl Inulin Safe?
Whole Foods has deemed the ingredient acceptable in its body care and cleaning product quality standards.[6,7]
Sources
[1] Comparative Toxicogenomics Database
[2] University of Wisconsin Extension Program
[3] Popular Mechanics
[4] American Cleaning Institute
[5] "Method for Treating Textile" patent application
[6] Whole Foods Market
[7] Whole Foods Market
