Inhibitory components from the buds of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) on melanin formation in B16 melanoma cells

In the course to find a new whitening agent, we evaluated the methanol extract from bud of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) on melanin formation in B16 melanoma cells. Eugenol and eugenol acetate were isolated as the active compounds and showed melanin inhibition of 60% and 40% in B16 melanoma cell with less cytotoxicity at the concentration of 100 and 200 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, an essential oil prepared from the bud of clove, which contain eugenol and eugenol acetate as dominant components, showed melanin inhibition of 50% and 80% in B16 melanoma cells at the concentration of 100 and 200 μg/mL, respectively.

Graphical AbstractIn the course to find a new whitening agent, we found methanol extract of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) inhibit melanin formation in B16 melanoma cells, and eugenol and eugenol acetate were identified as active compounds.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide