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A demulcent (derived from the la, demulcere "caress") is a mucilaginous or oleaginous preparation that forms a soothing protective film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane. However, they generally help for less than 30 minutes.
Demulcents are sometimes referred to as mucoprotective agents. Demulcents such as
A demulcent (derived from the la, demulcere "caress") is a mucilaginous or oleaginous preparation that forms a soothing protective film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane. However, they generally help for less than 30 minutes.
Demulcents are sometimes referred to as mucoprotective agents. Demulcents such as pectin
Pectin ( grc, πηκτικός ': "congealed" and "curdled") is a heteropolysaccharide, a structural acid contained in the primary lamella, in the middle lamella, and in the cell walls of terrestrial plants. The principal, chemical component of ...
, glycerin, honey
Honey is a sweet and viscous substance made by several 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 plants (primar ...
, and syrup are common ingredients in cough mixtures and cough drops.
Examples
Natural demulcents includeslippery elm
''Ulmus rubra'', the slippery elm, is a species of elm native to eastern North America.
Other common names include red elm, gray elm, soft elm, moose elm, and Indian elm.
Description
''Ulmus rubra'' is a medium-sized deciduous tree with a s ...
, pectin
Pectin ( grc, πηκτικός ': "congealed" and "curdled") is a heteropolysaccharide, a structural acid contained in the primary lamella, in the middle lamella, and in the cell walls of terrestrial plants. The principal, chemical component of ...
, licorice-root and marsh-mallow.
Synthetic demulcents include methylcellulose, propylene glycol, and glycerin.
References
Further reading
External links
* {{Pharma-stub