Korean Team Puts Their 'Finger' on the Next Nutricosmetic

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What lies beneath the powerful photo-protective benefits of orally ingested Boesenbergia pandurata (aka Chinese ginger, or fingerroot)? Apparently, panduratin A, and its benefits may extend to skin hydration, gloss and wrinkling.

According to Korean researchers at Newtree Co., Ltd., and Yonsei University, orally ingested B. pandurata extract was previously shown to suppress photoaging in vitro and in vivo via panduratin A—a natural adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) stimulant.

A new study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, further explored the effects of oral B. pandurata; this time, on skin hydration, gloss, wrinkling and elasticity. A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with B. pandurata ethanol extract (BPE) containing 8% panduratin A. The subjects (n = 92) were randomly assigned to receive BPE or placebo tablets for 12 weeks.

The test group showed significantly increased skin hydration and gloss, and decreased wrinkling, compared with the placebo group. No significant difference in skin elasticity was observed.

These results suggest a novel nutricosmetic ingredient source with commercial promise, especially for a market segment projected by Markets and Markets to surpass $2.5 billion by 2019. 

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