WESTERN CLASSIFICATION of the MATERIA MEDICA
2O. ASTRINGENTS
Incrassating, Repellent, Adstringent, Binding
Materia Medica in Arabic & Persian, Shirazy, 1793
These medicines were traditionally also classed as Incrassating (thickening), Repellent (repelling) or Adstringent (binding).
Astringent medicines are drying, usually in the 3rd or 4th degree. They thicken Humors and Fluids, and therefore hinder leakage. They also tighten lax tissues. They are known by their astringent and contracting effect on the tongue when they are tasted.
They are used for Diarrhea, Dysentery, Leukorrhea, Spermatorrhea; some restrain Sweat and Excessive Urination. Some have a secondary tonic action and help stop loss of Essence. Some are also Hemostatic, or hinder Miscarriage.
They are opposed to Loosening, Lenitive and Opening medicines.
Compare with the TCM classification of R. Astringents
Addendum:
Anhydrotics–Medicines that Stop Sweating
Medicines that stop Sweating are also working as an Astringent. These medicines are classed as Astringents in Chinese Medicine.
