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Gond Katira: A Natural Remedy for Summer Heat and Hydration

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 Research Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 17(2): April - June, 2025

ISSN 0975-4407 (Print) Available online at

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DOI: 10.52711/2321-5836.2025.00015
Research Journal of Pharmacology and
Vol. 17| Issue-2|
April - June| 2025 Pharmacodynamics
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REVIEW ARTICLE

Gond Katira:
A Natural Remedy for Summer Heat and Hydration
Kajal Pansare1*, Ganesh Sonawane1, Chandrashekhar Patil2, Deepak Sonawane3,
Sunil Mahajan3, Deepak Somavanshi4, Yogesh Ahire4, Vinod Bairagi5, Shweta Sharma6
1
Assistant Professor, Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana Dist. Nashik-423301 India.
2
Associate Professor, Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana Dist. Nashik-423301 India.
3
Professor, Divine College of Pharmacy, Satana Dist. Nashik-423301 India.
4
Associate Professor, KBHSS Trust’s Institute of Pharmacy, Malegaon Dist. Nashik-423105 India.
5
Professor, KBHSS Trust’s Institute of Pharmacy, Malegaon Dist. Nashik-423105 India.
6
Associate Professor, School of Pharmacy, Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur-302017 India.
*Corresponding Author E-mail: kajalgsonawane@[Link]
ABSTRACT:
Summer heat and dehydration present major challenges to human health, necessitating natural and effective
cooling remedies. Gond Katira, a natural gum exudate derived from species of Astragalus, has long been valued
in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Persian medicine for its potent hydrating and
cooling properties. This review compiles and critically examines the existing literature on Gond Katira’s
botanical description, pharmacognostic characteristics, traditional applications, and modern formulation
strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on its gel-forming ability, internal cooling mechanisms, digestive
support, and anti-inflammatory potential. Additionally, the review discusses traditional preparation methods,
appropriate usage precautions, and highlights future research opportunities to scientifically validate and expand
its therapeutic applications. By bridging ancient traditional wisdom with modern scientific perspectives, this
article underscores Gond Katira’s promise as a natural remedy for maintaining hydration, preventing heatstroke,
and promoting overall health during the summer season.

KEYWORDS: Gond Katira, Astragalus gum, Summer hydration, Natural cooling agent,
Traditional medicine, Nutraceutical formulation.

INTRODUCTION
The rising global temperatures and frequent heatwaves
have increased the need for natural remedies to manage
heat stress and dehydration. Excessive heat exposure can
Received on 18.03.2025 Revised on 15.04.2025
Accepted on 05.05.2025 Published on 14.05.2025 lead to health issues like dehydration, heat exhaustion,
Available online from May 16, 2025 and heatstroke, making internal cooling strategies
Res.J. Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics.2025;17(2):95-101. essential1. Traditional medicine systems, including
DOI: 10.52711/2321-5836.2025.00015 Ayurveda, Unani, and Persian medicine, have long used
©A and V Publications All right reserved natural substances for their cooling and hydrating
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons effects. Among these, Gond Katira, the dried exudate
Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 from Astragalus gummifer, is recognized for its cooling
International License. Creative Commons License.
and hydrating properties2,3.

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 Research Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 17(2): April - June, 2025

Gond Katira is a water-soluble polysaccharide that Pharmacognostically, Gond Katira appears as flattened,
swells into a gelatinous mass when soaked in water. It twisted flakes or ribbons that are translucent to pale
has traditionally been consumed in cooling beverages, yellowish in color. It is odorless and tasteless in its dry
sherbets, and milk-based drinks, especially in summer, to form. Upon soaking in water, it absorbs significant
regulate body temperature and replenish fluids. It is amounts of moisture, swelling into a soft, gelatinous, and
considered a "summer tonic" in Indian and Middle mucilaginous mass—a feature central to its cooling and
Eastern households, valued for preventing heatstroke, hydrating properties9. Microscopic examination of the
dehydration, acidity, and digestive issues. Beyond gum reveals fibrous structures made of cellulose and
cooling, it also offers mild laxative, anti-inflammatory, lignified vessels, sometimes accompanied by
and rejuvenating effects4. parenchymatous cells and traces of calcium oxalate
crystals. Unlike many other gums, Gond Katira lacks
Scientifically, Gond Katira’s ability to form starch granules, which contributes to its unique physical
hydrocolloids makes it an ideal candidate for functional behavior10. Chemically, it is composed of complex
foods, dietary supplements, and topical hydrating polysaccharides, mainly tragacanthin (a water-soluble
products. Its biocompatibility and safety profile make it component) and bassorin (a water-swellable but
an attractive ingredient for modern nutraceutical and insoluble fraction). These components confer its
cosmeceutical formulations. Given the growing exceptional gel-forming and stabilizing abilities. Minor
consumer preference for natural health solutions, constituents include simple sugars such as arabinose,
revisiting traditional remedies like Gond Katira is galactose, xylose, and fucose, along with small amounts
timely5,6. This review aims to explore its cooling of starch, cellulose, and mineral matter11.
properties, health benefits, and potential applications in
modern health solutions. In traditional medicinal systems, Gond Katira is highly
esteemed for its therapeutic versatility. In Ayurveda, it is
PHARMACOGNOSTIC OVERVIEW OF categorized as "Sheetala" (cooling) and is used to pacify
GOND KATIRA: "Pitta dosha," often recommended for conditions like
Gond Katira, also known as Tragacanth gum, is a natural burning sensations, diarrhea, excessive 12 thirst, and
plant exudate obtained from various species of the urinary disorders during the hot season . In Unani
Astragalus genus, primarily Astragalus gummifer, medicine, it is classified as a "Mubarrid" (cooling agent)
Astragalus microcephalus, Astragalus kurdicus, and and "Mulaṭṭif" (softening agent), commonly prescribed
Astragalus echidnaeformis. These species belong to the for managing 13
heatstroke, fever, and gastrointestinal
family Fabaceae and are native to the dry, mountainous disturbances . Likewise, Persian traditional medicine
regions of Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, and parts of values Gond Katira for its soothing, anti-inflammatory,
7
northern India and Pakistan . The plant is a small, and hydrating effects, employing it in the treatment of
perennial, spiny shrub characterized by woody stems, gastrointestinal irritation, respiratory conditions, and
compound pinnate leaves, and small yellowish or purple dermal inflammation during the summer months14.
flowers8. It thrives in arid, rocky habitats at elevations Table 1: Pharmacognosy Profile of Gond Katira
ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 meters above sea level. Parameter Details
When incisions are made into the bark, a viscous exudate Botanical Source Astragalus gummifer (and related Astragalus
is secreted, which hardens upon exposure to air, forming species)
brittle flakes or ribbons of gum known as Gond Katira FamilyPlant Part Used
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Dried gum exudate from stems
(Figure 1). The major pharmacognostic features of Gond Appearance Irregular crystals, translucent or whitish,
Katira, including its botanical source, chemical odorless
constituents, and physical characteristics, are Main Chemical Polysaccharides (Bassorin, Tragacanthin),
summarized in Table 1. Constituents minerals
Solubility Swells in water to form a gel; insoluble in
alcohol
Traditional Demulcent, cooling agent, mild laxative,
Medicinal Actions anti-inflammatory

Today, Gond Katira remains widely utilized in

traditional dietary practices, especially during the
summer. It is incorporated into cooling beverages like
rose-flavored sherbets, lemonades, and popular desserts
such as falooda, capitalizing on its natural ability to
promote hydration, reduce body heat, and enhance
overall wellness.
Figure 1: Dried Gum Exudates of Gond Katira

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COOLING PROPERTIES OF GOND issues such as prickly heat (miliaria), rashes, and
KATIRA: summer boils. Traditional topical applications of
Gond Katira has been traditionally valued across various Gond Katira gel were used to soothe and hydrate
cultures for its exceptional cooling properties, inflamed skin21-23.
particularly during the peak of summer. Ancient
medicinal systems like Ayurveda, Unani, and Persian Thus, Gond Katira continues to hold a respected place as
medicine emphasized its role in regulating body a natural, affordable, and easily accessible agent to
temperature, soothing internal inflammation, and combat the adverse effects of excessive heat, with
maintaining hydration under extreme heat conditions15,16. mechanisms rooted both in ancient traditions and
It was commonly consumed in the form of cold drinks, modern physicochemical understanding.
sherbets, and desserts, serving not only as a nutritive
agent but also as a preventive measure against SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVE:
heatstroke, dehydration, and associated ailments. Gond Katira, traditionally known for its cooling and
hydrating effects, is now being studied for its
Mechanism of Cooling Activity: phytochemical composition, functional properties, and
The cooling effects of Gond Katira are largely attributed therapeutic potential, providing a scientific foundation
to its unique physicochemical properties: for its traditional uses and opening doors for further
• Gel-Forming and Hydration Properties: Gond research.
Katira has a remarkable capacity to absorb water and
swell into a soft, mucilaginous gel—sometimes Water Absorption and Gelation: Supporting
expanding up to 50 times its original dry volume 17. Hydration and Temperature Regulation:
This gel formation leads to a hydrating effect when Gond Katira is primarily composed of complex
consumed, as it retains moisture within the polysaccharides, including arabinogalactans and
24
gastrointestinal tract, preventing dehydration and tragacanthin, which have a strong affinity for water .
dryness of mucosal surfaces. The slow release of Upon soaking, the dry crystals rapidly absorb water and
water content from the gel matrix helps maintain swell to many times their original size, forming a highly
internal hydration over a longer period, crucial viscous, jelly-like substance. This gelation property is a
during high-temperature conditions. key mechanism through which Gond Katira supports
• Internal Soothing and Heat Dissipation: The internal hydration. By retaining water within the
mucilage formed by Gond Katira exerts a soothing, gastrointestinal tract, it promotes moisture balance in the
demulcent effect on the gastrointestinal lining, body, thereby indirectly contributing to temperature
respiratory tract, and urinary tract. By reducing local regulation, particularly under hot environmental
25
irritation and inflammation, it indirectly assists in conditions . Moreover, the slow and sustained release of
heat dissipation within the body. Furthermore, the water from the swollen gum ensures prolonged
cooling nature is believed to modulate "pitta dosha" hydration, which can help reduce core body temperature
in Ayurvedic principles, which is responsible for and protect against heat-induced dehydration—a critical
26
body heat and metabolism18. Its mild laxative action concern during intense summer exposure .
also supports detoxification, promoting a lighter and
cooler bodily state during summer. Anti-inflammatory Potential: Reducing "Body
Heat":
Traditional and Seasonal Uses: Several in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the
In traditional practice, Gond Katira is typically soaked anti-inflammatory properties of Gond Katira extracts.
overnight in water to allow full swelling, and the The mucilage acts as a demulcent, creating a protective
resulting gel is incorporated into cooling preparations. barrier over mucous membranes and reducing local
Common seasonal uses include: inflammation in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts27.
• Prevention of Heatstroke: Regular consumption of Flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides present in
Gond Katira-based drinks during heatwaves is Gond Katira have been shown to inhibit the release of
recommended to protect against sunstroke (loo in pro-inflammatory 28
mediators like prostaglandins and
Indian terminology) and heat exhaustion . 19 cytokines . This anti-inflammatory action can translate
• Relief from Dehydration: Gond Katira is commonly into a subjective sensation of reduced body heat,
added to beverages like rose sherbet, lemonade, or aligning with its traditional use in cooling remedies.
milk-based drinks to help retain body fluids, Additionally, emerging research suggests that Gond
especially in individuals exposed to intense outdoor Katira may have mild antioxidant effects, which could
heat20. further assist in protecting tissues from oxidative stress-
• Management of Skin Disorders: Its cooling and induced heat damage 29
during periods of dehydration and
hydrating nature is also leveraged for skin-related thermal stress .

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 Research Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 17(2): April - June, 2025

Current Gaps and Opportunities for Further Joint and Muscle Relief: Mucilaginous Action
Scientific Research: The mucilaginous consistency of Gond Katira provides a
Despite promising traditional and preliminary scientific lubricating effect, which can be beneficial for joint
evidence, there are notable research gaps in Gond Katira health. In traditional practices, it has been used to ease
studies. Most research has been limited to in vitro or joint stiffness, soothe muscle soreness, and provide relief
animal models, with a lack of human clinical trials to in mild cases of arthritis and rheumatism34. Its anti-
confirm its cooling, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory inflammatory properties further complement these
effects. Additionally, the variability in source, effects by potentially reducing localized inflammation in
processing, and quality of Gond Katira leads to joints and connective tissues.
inconsistent results, highlighting the need for
standardized extraction protocols and phytochemical Boosting Immunity: Traditional Perspectives on
profiling. Systemic Strengthening:
In traditional medicine, Gond Katira has been considered
OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS: a "general tonic" that supports systemic health and
Beyond its renowned cooling effects, Gond Katira offers enhances resilience against environmental stressors35. It
a variety of additional health benefits owing to its rich is believed to strengthen the immune system by
polysaccharide content, gel-forming nature, and nourishing the body, improving hydration status, and
bioactive compounds. Traditional medical systems like promoting detoxification processes. Although direct
Ayurveda, Unani, and Persian medicine have long immunomodulatory studies are limited, its content of
recognized Gond Katira for promoting digestive health, natural polysaccharides and antioxidants is hypothesized
skin hydration, joint relief, and immune system support. to aid in boosting innate immunity36. (Table 2).
Recent scientific findings are beginning to validate many
of these traditional claims, as summarized in Table 2. FORMULATION STRATEGIES USING
GOND KATIRA:
Digestive Health: Mild Laxative Effect and Gut Gond Katira’s unique hydrophilic, gel-forming, and
Soothing: bioactive properties make it highly versatile for
Gond Katira acts as a natural bulk-forming laxative due incorporation into traditional, nutraceutical, cosmetic,
to its high soluble fiber and mucilage content30. When and even pharmaceutical formulations. Its natural origin
ingested, the gum swells by absorbing water, forming a and excellent biocompatibility offer opportunities for
gel-like mass that adds volume to intestinal contents and developing innovative products that meet consumer
stimulates peristaltic movement, thereby easing bowel demand for natural and functional ingredients.
movements. Unlike stimulant laxatives, it is gentle on
the gut and does not cause cramping or dependency. Beverages:
Additionally, the demulcent nature of the mucilage Summer Cooling Drinks (Sherbets, Falooda,
soothes the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract, Flavored Milk Drinks): Traditionally, Gond Katira is
reducing irritation and inflammation—a traditional soaked, swollen, and added to sherbets, falooda, thandai,
approach used to manage conditions like gastritis and and lemon-based drinks to provide a cooling, refreshing
acid reflux31. texture during the hot season37. Its gel-like consistency
not only enhances mouthfeel but also supports hydration
Skin Health: Supporting Hydration for Healthy Skin: and internal cooling. The gum's neutral flavor makes it
Topical and oral use of Gond Katira contributes an ideal carrier for natural sweeteners, rose water,
significantly to skin hydration. Its hydrogel properties cardamom, and other flavoring agents38.
help retain moisture both externally and internally 32. In
traditional skincare remedies, Gond Katira gel is often Nutraceutical Products:
applied directly to the skin to treat dryness, minor burns, • Functional Hydration Gels: Gond Katira’s ability
rashes, and prickly heat. Moreover, by maintaining to form stable hydrogels positions it well for creating
systemic hydration, oral intake supports skin turgor and oral hydration gels designed to prevent dehydration
elasticity, contributing to healthier, more resilient skin during sports, outdoor activities, or heatwaves39.
from within .33 These formulations can combine Gond Katira with
electrolytes, vitamins, and natural flavors to offer
convenient, portable hydration support.
Table 2: Traditional and Modern Applications of Gond Katira
Application Area Traditional Use Modern Use
Cooling Drinks Used in sherbets, thandai, falooda to prevent heatstroke Functional beverages for hydration and body cooling
Digestive Health Mild laxative and gut soother Fiber supplement for digestive regularity
Skin Care Hydration and soothing in traditional poultices Ingredient in hydrating gels and cosmetic lotions
Joint and Muscle Relief Lubricant for inflamed joints Mucilage-based topical formulations for soreness
Immunity Support General systemic strengthening during seasonal Investigational nutraceuticals for immune health
changes
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• Cooling Dietary Supplements: It can also be like mass46.

incorporated into capsules or powdered mixes • Draining: Drain any excess water, if necessary, and
designed to help balance body heat and promote gut use the swollen gel directly in recipes. Some
health naturally. Given its prebiotic potential traditions recommend an additional rinse to remove
(encouraging beneficial gut microbiota), Gond Katira any unwanted taste or impurities.
holds promise as an active component in digestive • Storage: The swollen gel can be stored in the
and immunity-support supplements40. refrigerator for 1–2 days but is best consumed fresh
to maintain texture and benefits47.
Desserts and Sweets:
Ice Creams, Kulfi, and Other Chilled Desserts: Traditional Dosage and Methods of Consumption:
Gond Katira's excellent emulsifying and stabilizing Traditionally, a small amount of Gond Katira,
properties make it a suitable ingredient for frozen approximately 5–10 grams per day, is considered
desserts such as kulfi, ice creams, puddings, and frozen sufficient to provide cooling effects and support
yogurts41. It improves texture, reduces ice crystal digestive health48. It is commonly consumed after
formation, and adds a smooth, creamy feel without soaking and swelling, either mixed into sherbets
synthetic stabilizers. Moreover, its natural cooling effect (sweetened flavored water) or added to milk-based
makes it particularly attractive for summer-themed drinks like falooda or thandai to enhance both taste and
desserts42. cooling properties. Another popular method is blending
the swollen gum into yogurt, smoothies, or lassi, creating
Topical Gels and Lotions (Experimental Use): a refreshing and health-boosting beverage perfect for hot
Potential as a Hydrating Gel Base for Skincare in climates. In Ayurvedic practice, Gond Katira is
Natural Cosmetics: specifically recommended to help balance Pitta dosha,
Given its strong moisture-retention and demulcent which is associated with excess heat in the body, thereby
properties, Gond Katira shows potential for development aiding in cooling and calming the system49. However,
into hydrating topical formulations such as skin gels, caution is advised, as excessive consumption may lead to
after-sun lotions, and cooling masks43. Preliminary bloating or digestive discomfort due to its high mucilage
studies suggest that natural plant gums like Gond Katira and fiber content50.
can act as bioadhesive matrices that deliver moisture and
active ingredients while soothing inflamed or irritated Recipe Ideas for Incorporating into Daily Diet:
skin44. However, large-scale cosmetic application studies Gond Katira is highly valued for its cooling and
are still at an experimental or prototype stage. hydrating properties and can be incorporated into daily
meals and beverages through several delicious
Pharmaceutical Preparations: preparations. The recipe ideas and health benefits of
Soothing Syrups and Suspensions: Gond Katira is illustrated in Figure 2.
Gond Katira can serve as a natural suspending agent in
pharmaceutical formulations like cough syrups, • Traditional Summer Drink (Sherbet):
gastrointestinal soothing syrups, and oral rehydration One of the most traditional ways to consume Gond
suspensions45. Its mucilage content not only stabilizes Katira is in refreshing summer drinks. After soaking and
the suspension but also provides soothing effects for the swelling, the gel-like Gond Katira is mixed with rose
throat and stomach lining. Additionally, its syrup, lemon juice, cold water, and sometimes a mild
biodegradability, non-toxicity, and generally recognized sweetener like honey or sugar. This beverage is typically
as safe status support its suitability for pharmaceutical served chilled and is highly effective in combating
uses. dehydration, replenishing electrolytes, and soothing
internal body heat, especially during peak summer
HOW TO USE GOND KATIRA: months51. The natural mucilage in Gond Katira aids in
Gond Katira is a versatile natural substance that can be retaining moisture within the body, making this sherbet
easily incorporated into the daily diet to take advantage an excellent choice for preventing heatstroke.
of its cooling, hydrating, and digestive benefits. Due to
its unique gel-forming property when soaked in water, it
• Falooda (Cooling Dessert Drink):
has been used traditionally in a variety of refreshing
Another widely enjoyed preparation is falooda, a multi-
foods and drinks, especially during the summer season.
textured dessert beverage rooted in Persian and Mughal
Step-by-Step Preparation: traditions. In falooda, soaked Gond Katira is layered
• Soaking: Take approximately 5–10 grams of dry with falooda sev (thin vermicelli made from cornstarch),
Gond Katira crystals and rinse lightly to remove any soaked basil seeds (sabja), chilled milk, rose-syrup, and
dust. Then, soak it in a bowl of clean water (at least a topping of ice cream. Gond Katira adds a slippery, soft
5–6 times the volume) overnight or for 6–8 hours. texture that complements the other cooling ingredients.
The crystals will swell and expand into a soft, jelly- Traditionally, falooda is not only seen as a treat but also
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 Research Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 17(2): April - June, 2025

a functional food for regulating body temperature, aiding PRECAUTIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS:
digestion, and providing energy during hot weather. Gond Katira is generally safe and beneficial, but certain
precautions are necessary for its proper use. It may not
• Healthy Smoothie Addition: be suitable for individuals with hypotension, as its
For a modern, health-conscious twist, Gond Katira can cooling effects could lower blood pressure further,
be added to smoothies. Soaked Gond Katira is blended leading to symptoms like dizziness. Those with a cold
with fresh fruits like mango, banana, or berries, along constitution (Ayurvedic "Kapha" dominance) may
with yogurt and a natural sweetener like honey. This experience digestive issues if consumed excessively.
results in a creamy, fiber-rich smoothie that promotes Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a
digestive health, delivers essential nutrients, and healthcare provider before use due to limited safety data.
naturally supports hydration and cooling from within. Gond Katira must be soaked thoroughly for 6–8 hours to
The mucilaginous fibers from Gond Katira also avoid gastrointestinal discomfort or blockage, as it
contribute to a feeling of satiety, making it a useful absorbs fluids when dry. To ensure its quality, Gond
addition for those managing weight or seeking nutritious Katira should be sourced from reputable suppliers and be
breakfast options. free from contaminants or preservatives, with organic or
pharmaceutical-grade options being preferred for dietary
• Cooling Salad Topping: and topical use53.
Incorporating Gond Katira into salads, particularly fruit
salads, offers an innovative way to enhance the dish’s CONCLUSION:
hydrating properties. After soaking and softening, Gond Gond Katira is a multifunctional natural remedy widely
Katira can be gently mixed with cut fruits like valued for its cooling, hydrating, and digestive
watermelon, musk melon, pomegranate, and citrus fruits. properties, particularly in hot climates. Traditionally
The jelly-like texture not only adds an interesting used in Ayurveda, Unani, and Persian medicine, it helps
mouthfeel but also improves the salad’s ability to help reduce internal heat, prevent dehydration, and support
cool and hydrate the body during hot days. This method gut health through its gel-forming and water-retentive
respects traditional cooling principles while fitting easily nature. With increasing interest in plant-based and
into contemporary diets. functional ingredients, Gond Katira is gaining attention
for use in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and
pharmaceuticals. Its anti-inflammatory and systemic
benefits further enhance its appeal in modern health
practices. While traditional use is well-established,
scientific validation through clinical studies is essential
to fully realize its potential and integrate it into
contemporary therapeutic and wellness strategies.

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