• The Journal of Korean Medicine Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology and Dermatology
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• v.17 no.2
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• pp.48-58
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• 2004

Objective: This study was performed to investigate the depigmentation effects of the extracts of Kamikwibi-Tang. Methods Inhibition of tyrosinase activity, melanin production & cell viability in cultured B16 melanoma cells, UV screen and cytoprotective effects on PC12 cells injured by hydrogen peroxide were measured. Results: The extracts of Kamikwibi-Tang did not have any inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity and did not show any inhibitory effects on melanin production in melanoma cells and also did not have any inhibitory effects on UV screen. But the extracts showed high cytoprotective effects on PC12 cells injured by hydrogen peroxide. Conclusion : These results suggest that Kamikwibi-Tang indrectly inhibits melanin biosynthesis which is involved in hyperpigmentation and could be used as a whitening agent for the skin.