Glycerol can lubricate and stimulate the intestinal wall, soften the stool to facilitate its excretion. It also has a dehydrating effect; when formulated into a compound injection with sodium ascorbate for intravenous administration, it can reduce intraocular pressure. When used externally, it has a hygroscopic effect and softens local tissues. It can dissolve borax, boric acid, phenol, nucleic acids, salicylic acid, etc. It is mainly used for constipation in children and the elderly and infirm, rescue of general cerebral edema, treatment of glaucoma, and chapped and peeling skin in winter.