In vitro and in vivo evaluation of inhibition activity of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) leaves against ultraviolet B-induced phototoxicity

► Lotus leaf extracts (LLEs) have strong photoprotective activity in vitro and in vivo. ► LLE possessed strong protective effect against UVB in the mitochondria model. ► The mice model test showed LLE have significant protective activity from UVB.