Mucilage is a thick, gluey substance that is produced by nearly all plants and some microorganisms. It is a polar glycoprotein and an exopolysaccharide. Mucilage in plants plays a role in the storage of water and food, seed germination, and thickening membranes. Cacti and flax seeds are especially rich sources of mucilage. Mucilage is edible and is used in medicine as it relieves irritation of mucous membranes by forming a protective film. It is also known to act as a soluble, or viscous, dietary fiber that thickens the fecal mass. Mucilage mixed with water has been used as a glue, especially for bonding paper items such as labels, postage stamps, and envelope flaps. Differing types and varying strengths of mucilage can also be used for other adhesive applications, including gluing labels to metal cans, wood to china, and leather to pasteboard.

Mucilage is a gelatinous substance of various plants (such as legumes or seaweeds) that contains protein and polysaccharides and is similar to plant gums. It is used as an aqueous, usually viscid solution (as of a gum) used especially as an adhesive. Okra, sea moss, and mustard seeds are some examples of plants that contain mucilage.

Mucilage is also used in nanocarrier fabrication. It is secreted by root cells as the root grows through the soil and consists of polysaccharides containing hexose and pentose sugars and uronic acids.

In summary, mucilage is a thick, gluey substance that is produced by plants and some microorganisms. It has various applications, including as an adhesive, a dietary fiber, and a nanocarrier fabrication material.