Anti skin cancer ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash, Sanguinarine
Key points
- Sanguinarine, commonly found in toothpaste and many mouthwashes, protects the body from developing skin cancer.
- Sanguinarine enhances the production of proteins that make cells damaged by ultraviolet B radiation self destruct.
- Researchers presented their findings to the American Association for Cancer Research at a meeting in Seattle.
- Nihal Ahmad, head researcher, Wisconsin University, said "This natural compound may protect skin from cells that acquire the genetic damage caused by UV radiation from advancing toward cancer."
Sanguinarine, commonly found in toothpaste and many mouthwashes, protects the body from developing skin cancer. Sanguinarine is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient. It is an alkaloid present in the blood root plant.
Sanguinarine enhances the production of proteins that make cells damaged by ultraviolet B radiation self destruct. It also limits skin cell production of proteins that help cancer cells thrive.
Researchers presented their findings to the American Association for Cancer Research at a meeting in Seattle.
Nihal Ahmad, head researcher, Wisconsin University, said "This natural compound may protect skin from cells that acquire the genetic damage caused by UV radiation from advancing toward cancer."
He found that cells that were pretreated with sanguinarine were 49 - 66% more likely to perish after exposure to ultraviolet B radiation.
Sanguinarine is commonly used to treat gingivitis (an infection causing swelling and inflammation of the gums).
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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