The Probert Encyclopaedia of Medicine

ASTRINGENT

An astringent is a substance which contracts tissues, chiefly by coagulating albumin. When applied in the form of lotions or ointments, they reduce the congestion of mucous membranes and thus assist in the healing of wounds and ulcers. The chief natural astringents are the mineral acids, alum, lime-water, chalk, salts of copper, zinc, iron, lead, silver; and among vegetables catechu, kino, oak-bark, and galls.
Research Astringent