Jock Zonfrillo

When we blanch some ingredients in ash water it removes all their bitterness and astringency, which has opened up a new list of ingredients that we had never considered as edible.

Isabella Bird

If Japanese tea 'stands,' it acquires a coarse bitterness and an unwholesome astringency. Milk and sugar are not used.

English Explorer

Astringency often refers to a physical sensation in the mouth, like dryness or puckering.

Sensory Perception

While astringency can be unpleasant, it can also add complexity to food and drinks.

Not Always Negative

In cooking, astringency is a taste profile alongside sweetness, saltiness, bitterness, and sourness.

Culinary Terms

In medical contexts, astringency is beneficial, often used to help reduce bleeding or swelling.

Healing Properties

Many skincare products boast astringency to tighten pores and improve skin appearance.

Skincare Relevance

In pharmacies, astringency is usually associated with specific treatments, not all medicines.