Astringent

A crystal of alum, an astringent

An astringent is a chemical substance known for its property to shrink or constrict body tissues. The etymology of "astringent" traces back to the Latin word adstringere, which translates to "to bind fast". Notable examples include calamine lotion and witch hazel.

Origin and Perception of Astringency

Astringency is not just limited to the action on tissues but is also recognized as the dry, puckering sensation in the mouth, predominantly due to the presence of tannins. These tannins, which are a subset of polyphenols, have the ability to bind salivary proteins, leading to their precipitation or aggregation. This binding action results in a distinctive dry or "sandpapery" feel in the mouth.

Tannins are naturally found in various fruits, such as:

• Blackthorn (sloe berries)
• Aronia chokeberry
• Chokecherry
• Bird cherry
• Quince
• Persimmon fruits
• Banana skins

Additionally, tannins play a vital role in the taste profiles of some red wines and teas. For instance, young red wines made from grape varieties like cabernet sauvignon and merlot often exhibit a mild astringency.

Uses of Astringents

Astringents have been employed both internally and externally in the field of medicine:

• Internal Use: Astringent medicines are known to cause the shrinkage of mucous membranes or exposed tissues. They can be used to check the discharge of blood serum or mucous secretions, often beneficial in cases such as sore throats, hemorrhages, diarrhea, and peptic ulcers.

• External Use: When applied externally, astringents induce mild coagulation of skin proteins, resulting in the drying, hardening, and protection of the skin. Such properties make them useful in the treatment of:
• Minor skin irritations caused by cuts, allergies, or insect bites
• Fungal infections like athlete's foot
• Acne, especially in those with oily skin

Some frequently used astringent agents encompass:

• Alum
• Oatmeal
• Acacia
• Sage
• Yarrow
• Witch hazel
• Bayberry
• Distilled vinegar
• Cold water
• Rubbing alcohol

There are also astringent preparations which include compounds like silver nitrate, potassium permanganate, zinc oxide, and zinc sulfate. Balaustines, the red rose-like flowers of the pomegranate, have a bitter taste, and their dried form has been traditionally used as an astringent due to their properties.

Summary

Astringents, whether natural or synthetic, have a wide range of applications, especially in the medical and cosmetic industries. While they offer several benefits, it is crucial to use them judiciously to avoid any potential side effects.

References

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