Definition
Definition
The term astringent, from the Latin astringere meaning to tighten, designates a substance or an effect which shed living tissues.
Astringent effects are used for reduce secretions from a wound or the mucous membrane (layer of cells covering the inside of hollow organs in general) of the intestines.
Astringents are for example: silver nitrate, Potassium permanganate and zinc sulfate which tighten and dry tissues. These substances are particularly used in cosmetics and their medical use is more in the field of antisepsis (to fight infection).
Astringents are applied to the skin to potentially facilitate healing.