Demulcent

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Demulcent

Demulcent (/dɪˈmʌlsənt/) is a term used in medicine to describe substances that provide relief to irritated or inflamed internal body tissues. These substances work by forming a soothing film over the mucous membrane that has been irritated or inflamed.

Etymology

The term "demulcent" originates from the Latin word "demulcere", which means "to caress" or "to soothe".

Usage

Demulcents are often used in the treatment of conditions such as gastroenteritis, gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease. They are also used in the treatment of coughs and sore throats, as they can soothe the irritated throat lining.

Related Terms

  • Mucilage: A type of demulcent that is found in certain plants.
  • Expectorant: A type of medicine that promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
  • Emollient: A substance that softens and soothes the skin, similar to how a demulcent soothes internal tissues.

See Also

External links

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