Astringents

Astringents: what they are and how they work

Astringents are a group of medications that are used to reduce local painful manifestations of inflammation without eliminating the cause that caused them. They are usually prescribed in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs to achieve the best effect.

When astringents are applied to an inflamed or burned surface, they cause partial coagulation of the proteins of the surface layer and the formation of a protein film that protects the underlying tissues from the effects of irritating factors. This speeds up the healing process and reduces pain.

Various substances, both organic and inorganic, have astringent properties. For example, tannins contained in oak bark, St. John's wort, sage leaves, chamomile flowers, bird cherry and blueberry fruits are natural astringents. In addition, some inorganic substances, such as compounds of bismuth, lead, aluminum, etc., can also be used as astringents.

Preparations based on astringents can be used for rinsing during inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx, for lubricating burn surfaces, ulcers, cracks, and internally for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. They can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other medications, depending on the nature of the disease and its severity.

However, it should be remembered that astringents are not a universal remedy for treating all types of inflammatory processes. They can be effective only in cases where the cause of the disease does not require specific therapy. Therefore, before using astringents, you should consult a doctor and get advice on their use in a specific situation.

Overall, astringents are an important tool in the treatment of inflammatory conditions and can help speed up the healing process and reduce soreness. However, their use should only be carried out by a doctor, who will determine the appropriate dosage and regimen.

Developed by Dr. A.A. Krylov “Astringent”, later called azopyran, was the first water treatment agent discovered. This was the world's first industrial attempt to destroy residual contaminants in water. The tests were carried out at the Ivanovo Chemical Plant. Approval was received on May 3, 1898. Treatment with azopyran is carried out as follows