A demulcent (derived from the "caress") is a mucilaginous or oleaginous preparation that forms a soothing protective film over a

mucous membrane A mucous membrane or mucosa is a membrane that lines various cavities in the body of an organism and covers the surface of internal organs. It consists of one or more layers of epithelial cells overlying a layer of loose connective tissue. It ...

, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the

membrane A membrane is a selective barrier; it allows some things to pass through but stops others. Such things may be molecules, ions, or other small particles. Membranes can be generally classified into synthetic membranes and biological membranes. Bi ...

. However, they generally help for less than 30 minutes. Demulcents are sometimes referred to as mucoprotective agents. Demulcents such as pectin, glycerin,

honey Honey is a sweet and viscous substance made by several species of bees, the best-known of which are honey bees. Honey is made and stored to nourish bee colonies. Bees produce honey by gathering and then refining the sugary secretions of pl ...

, and

syrup In cooking, syrup (less commonly sirup; from ; , beverage, wine and ) is a condiment that is a thick, viscous liquid consisting primarily of a Solution (chemistry), solution of sugar in water, containing a large amount of dissolved sugars but ...

are common ingredients in cough mixtures and cough drops.

Examples

Natural demulcents include slippery elm, pectin, licorice-root and marsh-mallow. Synthetic demulcents include methylcellulose,

propylene glycol Propylene glycol ( IUPAC name: propane-1,2-diol) is a viscous, colorless liquid. It is almost odorless and has a faintly sweet taste. Its chemical formula is CH3CH(OH)CH2OH. As it contains two alcohol groups, it is classified as a diol. An al ...

, and glycerin.

References

External links

* {{Pharma-stub

Examples

References

Further reading

External links