Astringent Herbs And Tannins: Medicinal And Cosmetic Uses.

Astringent herbs draw together or constrict body tissues and are effective in stopping the flow of blood or other secretions. They are tightening, healing and drying, reducing irritation and inflammation and creating a barrier against infection that is helpful in wounds and burns. Herbs that contain tannins such as tea, roses, grape wine, and oak bark are considered astringent, as well as tart citrus fruit like lemons. Astringents like alcohol and witch hazel are often used as facial toners, but can cause unwanted dryness of the skin when used in excessive amounts. Astringent is one of the five flavors, or Rashas in Ayurvedic medicine, but the meaning is not the same.