Tannins

The main therapeutic action of tannins is astringent, as a result, of their ability to bind albumen, a protein present in the skin and mucous membranes of the body, to form an insoluble, protective layer that is resistant to disease.

This protective layer can separate micro-organisms, such as bacteria which threaten to invade the body, from the source of their nutrition, either on the skin, or in the linings of the mouth, digestive, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems.

Tannins also have healing action, protecting areas treated from irritation, while at the same time reducing inflammation. They are the main therapeutic ingredients in astringents such as: oak, bark, witch hazel and beth root.

Such herbs can be used in compress for cuts and wounds, hemmorrhoids, varicose veins, and in medicine for diarrhea, catarrh, heavy periods, and inflammatory conditions of the digestive tract.