Baking soda

Carrageenan

Chamomile (German)

Fluoride

Ginger

Glycerin

Glycyrrhizin

Glyceryl laurate

Hectorite clay

Hops

Lemongrass

Lichen

Natural flavors

Poloxamer 335 and 407

Potassium nitrate

Propolis

Propylene glycol

Sage

Silica, hydrated

Silica shells

Sodium lauryl sulfate

Sorbitol

Sucrose cocoate 

Xanthan gum

Xylitol

Zinc citrate

Zinc ricinoleate

Further ingredient research:

Search the databases of the American Botanical Council for the latest research on herbal ingredients.

Ingredient Fact Sheet: Xanthan gum

What is it?

When the bacterium Xanathomonas campestris acts on vegetables or vegetable matter (such as beets and corn syrup) in the process of fermentation, a gum is formed—xanthan gum.

What does it do?

Xanthan gum is used as a thickener in our gel toothpastes.

What are the alternatives?

Carrageenan is one alternative. We use either xanthan gum or carrageenan for thickening depending on its compatibility with other ingredients in our products. For example, carrageenan thickens best in the presence of calcium carbonate, so we use it in our pastes. If we used it in our gels, which do not have calcium carbonate, we would have to use more of it. This would then affect the final formulation’s texture and flavor.

We have found that xanthan gum is the best fit for our gel toothpaste and for our roll-on deodorants.

What are the risks?

There are no known risks associated with xanthan gum.

Tom’s of Maine recognizes that no two people are alike, and even with pure and natural ingredients, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction that is unique to them. As with any product, be sure to discontinue use if you experience discomfort or other indications that the product may not be appropriate for your individual body chemistry.