V-Ease

Citrus aurantium L.—Zhi Ke

Protective effects of a red orange extract on UVB-induced damage in human keratinocytes.

UV light is considered one of the major etiological factor in skin aging, cancer and also to systemic impairment such as immunosuppression. Increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress condition are known to play a central role in initiating and driving the signalling events that lead to cellular response following UV irradiation. In the present study we have investigated the photoprotective activity of a standardized extract from red orange (ROE), obtained from three red orange varieties and containing as main active principles phenolic compounds (anthocyanins, flavanones and hydroxycinnamic acids) and ascorbic acid. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of ROE in modulating cellular responses to UVB in human keratinocytes (HaCaT). Our data indicate that ROE is potentially able to efficiently counteract UVB-induced response, and in particular some events associated to inflammation and apoptosis, such as NF-kB and AP-1 translocation and procaspase-3 cleavage. This activity is probably due to a block of cellular oxidative stress-related events. Thus we can propose ROE as a useful natural standardised extract in skin photoprotection with promising applications in the field of dermatology. (2)

Antiinflammatory effects of a red orange extract in human keratinocytes treated with interferon-gamma and histamine.

Red oranges are an important component of the so-called Mediterranean diet and they have been used by traditional medicine for their health protective properties, particularly to heal sore throat and cough, suggesting an interesting antiinflammatory activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antiinflammatory activity of a red orange (Citrus sinensis varieties: Moro, Tarocco, Sanguinello) complex (ROC), characterized by high levels of anthocyanins, flavanones, hydroxycinnamic acids and ascorbic acid, on the human keratinocyte line NCTC 2544 exposed to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and histamine. The expression of immunomodulatory membrane molecules such as inter-cellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) by Western blot analysis, and the release of chemokines such as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) through ELISA kits, were determined. ICAM-1 modulates the permanence and activation of T lymphocytes in the epidermis. MCP-1 is a specific chemoattractant for monocytes and dendritic cells. IL-8 is important for the recruitment of both neutrophils and T lymphocytes. Addition of ROC at different concentrations together with IFN-gamma and histamine induced a dose-dependent inhibition of ICAM-1 expression and MCP-1 and IL-8 release. ROC shows interesting antiinflammatory properties in human keratinocyte cells NCTC 2544. This natural complex could have a topical employment and mitigate the consequences of some skin pathologies. (3).

Sophora japonica L.—Huai hua

Cosmetic applications of selected traditional Chinese herbal medicines.

Because tyrosinase catalyzes melanin synthesis, tyrosinase inhibitors are important in cosmetic skin-whitening. Oxidative stress contributes to skin aging and can adversely affect skin health, which means antioxidants active in skin cells may support skin health. We examined 25 traditional Chinese herbal medicines that might be useful for skin-whitening and skin health. Extracts (100microg/mL) were tested for cytotoxicity on human epidermal melanocytes (HEMn); 12 exhibited low cytotoxicity. Their effects on tyrosinase and melanin inhibitory activities and free radical scavenging activities were further assessed. Phenolic contents were evaluated using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Four herbs, Pharbitis nil, Sophora japonica, Spatholobus suberectus, and Morus alba, exhibited potent inhibitory effects on tyrosinase (IC(50) values 24.9, 95.6, 83.9, and 78.3microg/mL, respectively). Melanin inhibition was not dose-dependent. Sophora japonica (IC(50): 14.46microg/mL, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH); 1.95microg/mL, hydroxyl radical) and Spatholobus suberectus (IC(50): 10.51microg/mL, DPPH; 4.36microg/mL, hydroxyl radical) showed good antioxidative activities and high phenolic contents (255 and 189mg of gallic acid/g extract, respectively). Among active anti-tyrosinase extracts, Sophora japonica and Spatholobus suberectus were especially potent in HEMn cells in terms of free radical scavenging effects and high phenolic contents, making them the strongest candidates for cosmetic application found in the current study. (4)

Active constituents from Sophora japonica exhibiting cellular tyrosinase inhibition in human epidermal melanocytes.

AIM OF THE STUDY: There is greater consumer awareness of plant-based skin-care products. Sophora japonica L. (Fabaceae) has been used traditionally as a hemostatic agent and also has skin-care and whitening benefits. The effect of the isolated active compounds of Sophora japonica L. (Fabaceae) that inhibits tyrosinase activity in human epidermal melanocytes (HEMn) was examined. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used the mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory assay to isolate active constituents from the extracts. The structures of these constituents were characterized by physical and spectroscopic analyses. Cellular tyrosinase kinetics were analyzed and showed by Lineweaver-Burk plot. RESULTS: A new compound, N-feruloyl-N'-cis-feruloyl-putrescine (8), together with four flavonoids and three putrescine derivatives were obtained after assay-guided isolation of S. japonica. In HEMn, compound 8 was minimally cytotoxic (cell viability >90% at 100 microM) and the IC(50) value for suppression of cellular tyrosinase activity was estimated as 85.0 microM. Zymography analysis demonstrated the compound's concentration-dependent effects and the kinetic analysis indicated the compound's mixed-inhibitory action. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that the new compound 8 is the most potent component of S. japonica yet discovered. Its pigment inhibition activity may be exploitable cosmetically. (5)

Schizonepeta tenuifolia—Jing jie tan (charred)

The fine powder of the fruit-spike was applied evenly to skin lesions and rubbed until the skin became hot. Mild urticaria was cured after 1-2 applications and severe cases after 2-4 applications. Moreover, compound formulae such as “Jing Fang Baidu Decoction”, and “Wuwei Xiaodu Yin” (Five-Herb Detoxicant Decoction), modified to suit the patients’ needs, were also efficacious in the treatment of allergic dermatitis, pruritus, urticaria, exanthema desquamativum, eczema, and psoriasis. (6)

Angelica sinensis—Dang gui

An experimental research on the function of anti-oxidation of skin by cosmetics with the compound extract of Danggui

Objective Researching the function of anti-oxidation of skin by cosmetics with the compound extract of Dang Gui. Methods To measure the effect by cosmetics with the compound extract of Dang Gui to the contents both of SOD, Hyp and the water content of skin of mouse skin with senilitied model of galactose-D. Results It is evidently less than the normal (P<0.05) for the index of vitality-SOD of mouse skin with senilitied model of galactose-D, content of Hyp and water content of skin. Both of the contents of SOD of mouse skin with senilitied model of galactose-D and HYP(P<0.05) can be increased by cosmetics with the compound extract of Dang Gui. Although there is an increasing trend for the water content of mouse skin, it is without concept of statistics. Conclusion It is related to the delaying of senility of skin, increasing the vitality of SOD and the content of Hyp by cosmetics with the compound extract of Dang Gui.(7).

Effect of angelica polysaccharide on human scalp hair growth in vitro

Objective: To evaluate the effect of angelica polyscaccharide on human scalp hair growth in vitro. Methods: Organ culture of human scalp hair follicle was used to evaluate the effects of angelica polysaccharide on hair growth. Results: Low dose of angelica polysaccharide (62.5 mg/mL, 125 mg/mL) markedly enhanced the hair growth and extended the period of hair growth, while high dose of angelica polysaccharide (1 003 mg/mL) sharply inhibited hair growth and shortened the period of hair growth. Conclusion: Low dose of angelica polysaccharide can promote human scalp hair growth in vitro.. (8)

Effects of traditional Chinese herbs on growth of mouse hair follicles and hair bulb cells in vitro

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of water soluble extracts of traditional Chinese herbs on growth of mouse hair follicles and hair bulb cells in vitro. METHODS: Mouse hair follicles and hair bulb cells were cultured in Williams E medium with (experimental groups) or without (control group) water soluble extracts of Chinese herbs; the experimental group was further divided into mixture and single herb groups. Hair growth was observed by microscopy and growth activity of hair bulb cells was detected by MTT colorimetric assay. RESULT: On day 7 of culture, the hair growth in the mixture groups was faster than that in the control group (P<0.05). On day 3 and 5 of culture, the cell growth activity in the mixture groups was greater than that in the control group (P<0.05). While the hair growth and the cell growth activity between the single herb groups and the control group were not significantly different. CONCLUSION: The water soluble extracts of mixed traditional Chinese medicines can promote the growth of mouse hair in vitro and stimulate the proliferation of hair bulb cells; while those of the single traditional Chinese herb have no effect. (9)

Effect of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) on melanocytic proliferation, melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity in vitro.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) on melanocytes and tyrosinase activity. METHODS: MTT method and cleavage by NaOH were employed to measure the proliferation and melanin synthesis of melanocytes, respectively. Tyrasinase activity assessment was performed by measuring the rate of oxidation of DL-dopa. RESULTS: Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) was found to promote melanocytic proliferation (P< 0.05), resulting in a statistically significant increase in the cell counts (P< 0.05). It also enhanced melanin synthesis (P< 0.05) and tryosinase activity (P< 0.05) of the melanocytes, and the most potent effects were achieved at the concentration of 1 g/L (P< 0.05). CONCLUSION: Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) promotes melanocytic proliferation, melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity, which may be the mechanism for validating its clinical use in the treatment of skin pigmentation. (10)

Carthamus tinctorius L.—Hong hua

Kinobeon A, purified from cultured safflower cells, is a novel and potent singlet oxygen quencher.

We recently reported that kinobeon A, produced from safflower cells, suppressed the free radical-induced damage of cell and microsomal membranes. In the present study, we investigated whether kinobeon A quenches singlet oxygen, another important active oxygen species. Kinobeon A inhibited the singlet oxygen-induced oxidation of squalene. The second-order rate constant between singlet oxygen and kinobeon A was 1.15 x 10(10) M(-1)s(-1) in methanol containing 10% dimethyl sulfoxide at 37 degrees C. Those of alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene, which are known potent singlet oxygen quenchers, were 4.45 x 10(8) M(-1)s(-1) and 1.26 x 10(10) M(-1)s(-1), respectively. When kinobeon A was incubated with a thermolytic singlet oxygen generator, its concentration decreased. However, this change was extremely small compared to the amount of singlet oxygen formed and the inhibitory effect of kinobeon A on squalene oxidation by singlet oxygen. In conclusion, kinobeon A was a strong singlet oxygen quencher. It reacted chemically with singlet oxygen, but it was physical quenching that was mainly responsible for the elimination of singlet oxygen by kinobeon A. Kinobeon A is expected to have a preventive effect on singlet oxygen-related diseases of the skin or eyes. (11)

Inhibitory effects of active compounds isolated from safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) seeds for melanogenesis.

In order to develop a new skin whitening agent, safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) seeds were evaluated for melanogenesis inhibitory activity and its active principles were identified following activity-guided isolation. The 80% aqueous methanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction from safflower seeds showed a significant inhibition for mushroom tyrosinase. Three active compounds, N-feruloylserotonin, N-(p-coumaroyl)serotonin, and acacetin, were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction as the active principles. Compared with arbutin (IC50=0.223 mM), the IC50 values of these compounds were 0.023, 0.074, and 0.779 mM for N-feruloylserotonin, N-(p-coumaroyl)serotonin, and acacetin, respectively. It was also found that N-feruloylserotonin and N-(p-coumaroyl)serotonin strongly inhibited the melanin production of Streptomyces bikiniensis and B16 melanoma cells in comparison with a known melanogenesis inhibitor, arbutin. (12)

Diosmin and Research:

Diosmin, a flavonoid found in some plant sources, is promoted as a high-quality active ingredient in vein improvement supplements. Women and men suffering from venous disorders, such as varicose veins and spider veins, may especially benefit from Diosmin-based products, according to some clinical studies.

DIOSMIN is derived either directly from various plant sources or from the flavonoid Hesperidin. Sources suggest that this ingredient has been used and studied in clinical settings since the late 1960s, although it did not gain in popularity in the U.S. until much later.

Although there are many claims associated with DIOSMIN, it appears to be most frequently linked to formulas capable of providing relief for venous diseases. These may include varicose veins, spider veins and other vascular disorders, many of which may affect the legs as well as other parts of the body.

Diosmin is thought to strengthen the neuromediators in the leg's veins so that the veins are able to prevent blood from flowing back. Weak veins may become strong again, and the appearance of bluish spider veins may begin to diminish. Additionally, this active ingredient is considered useful for both preventing certain venous disorders and correcting them once they occur.

Diosmin reduces inflammation and increases vein tonicity, two important factors that contribute to hemorrhoids. And taken at larger-than-usual "crisis dose" levels, diosmin also appears to significantly shorten the duration of haemorrhoid bleeding.

A 2000 Italian study of 66 haemorrhoid patients reported that diosmin decreased pain by 79% and bleeding by 67% during the first week of treatment, followed by an astonishing 98% and 86% reduction in these symptoms by the second week. 13

Other clinical studies involving haemorrhoid patients have shown:

After hemorrhoid surgery, flavonoids were found to relieve pain, bleeding and other symptoms more rapidly than standard antibiotic/anti-inflammatory treatment alone, with especially significant symptom relief during the first three days after surgery. (14)

In a 12-week study of 50 pregnant women suffering acute hemorrhoids, micronized diosmin/hesperidin therapy was reported to be a "safe, acceptable, and effective" treatment. Of the patients sampled, 66% obtained relief from acute hemorrhoid symptoms within four days, and significantly fewer patients experienced a relapse of symptoms during the post-birth period. (15)

Bleeding time was significantly reduced in patients treated with flavonoids plus a fiber supplement in a study of 162 patients with nonprolapsed hemorrhoids; bleeding subsided in an average of just 3.9 days among the dual-treatment group, versus 10.6 days with fiber alone and 5.6 days for rubber band ligation plus fiber (16). A similar study of 100 patients reported that acute bleeding had subsided by the third day of treatment for 80% of patients receiving micronized flavonoids, two days sooner than in patients receiving a placebo. (17)

In a study involving laboratory rats, hesperidin and diosmin have been shown to help reduce colonic inflammation and oxidative damage. Hesperidin was also found to improve fluid absorption in the colon, a factor that may reduce colitis. (18)

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