Cyclodextrin is a type of cyclic oligosaccharide consisting of several glucose molecules joined together in a ring formation. It has a unique structure that allows it to effectively encapsulate or trap other molecules within its ring-shaped cavity.

There are three types of cyclodextrins: alpha, beta, and gamma. Each type differs in the number of glucose molecules in the ring, with alpha having six, beta having seven, and gamma having eight.

Cyclodextrin is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agriculture. In the pharmaceutical industry, cyclodextrin is used as a drug delivery agent to improve the solubility and stability of poorly soluble drugs. It can also be used to reduce the toxicity of some drugs.

In the food industry, cyclodextrin is used as a food additive to improve the texture, flavor, and stability of food products. Cyclodextrin can also be used to trap unwanted flavors, odors, or impurities in food products.

In the cosmetics industry, cyclodextrin is used as a carrier for active ingredients in skincare and beauty products. It can also be used to improve the stability and solubility of cosmetic ingredients.

Cyclodextrin has also shown potential in environmental applications such as removing pollutants from water or soil.

However, while cyclodextrin is generally considered safe for consumption, it can have side effects in high doses or when used improperly. Some studies have reported adverse effects such as kidney damage in animals and humans after high oral doses of cyclodextrin. Therefore, it is important to use cyclodextrin only in appropriate doses and under expert supervision.