NDGA is a powerful antioxidant 10-100 times more effective than vitamin E, vitamin C, or grape seed polyphenols (1). It is also more stable and more effective than green tea polyphenols.
NDGA helps to protect sun sensitive skin from the effects of UV and has strong anti-inflammatory effects through its antioxidant properties. It blocks UV effect on the skin and reduces the damage caused by UVB on skin by blocking UV-induced gene expression (9, 10). Further research found that it blocks the UV induced enzymatic breakdown of the support matrix in the skin which results in fine lines and wrinkles (premature aging). (11)
These properties are especially useful for rosacea sufferers as inherent sun sensitivity is a hallmark of the disease. The photoprotective properties of NDGA help lessen reactivity to ultraviolet light, thereby reducing the signs and symptoms of rosacea. Moreover, NDGA has been shown to reduce the disruption of the skin barrier often seen in patients with rosacea. NDGA may also directly improve the signs of rosacea by reducing the number and appearance of telangiectasias (Thread veins).
Finally, NDGA inhibits the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrines (2, 3). It prevents leukocyte infiltration into tissues and release of reactive oxygen species (4-6). It also blocks chemically induced skin irritation (7, 8).
References:
1. Mutat Res., 2001, 485: 309-18.
2. Opthalmic Res., 1997, 29: 227-36
3. Biol Pharm Bull., 2000, 23: 47-53
4. Scand J. Immunol., 1996, 43: 127-33
5. Biochem Pharmacol., 1993: 45: 783-86
6. J. Vet Pharmacol. Ther., 1990: 13: 186-91
7. Arch Dermatol. Res., 1991, 283: 262-8
8. Pharmazie 1995, 50: 156-7
9. Mol. Carcinog., 2002: 34: 102-11
10. Phtochem. Phtobiol., 2003: 78: 68-74
11. Exp Cell Res., 2003: 288: 208-17
KALME also contains Glycyrrhizin, an extract of liquorice which has been found in laboratory studies to reduce inflammation, promote mucous secretion, soothe irritation, and stimulate adrenal gland activity. (4) Glycyrrhizin also has antiviral properties, combating hepatitis B, influenza, and HIV by boosting T-cell counts and stimulating production of interferon and other protective compounds. (5)
A study by Yokota and associates reported that glabridin, an element in KALME’s liquorice extract, inhibited UVB-induced pigmentation and erythema. (6) The compound's anti-inflammatory properties are due to the inhibition of superoxide anion production and cyclooxygenase activity.
Glycyrrhizinic acid has also been shown to improve dermatitis. In a study by Saeedi and associates, 2% glycyrrhizinic acid gel was reported to significantly decrease scores for erythema, edema, and itching over the 2-week treatment period. (7)
[4]. University of Maryland Medical Center. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsHerbs/Licoricech.html. Accessed November 7, 2005.
[5.] PDR for herbal medicines. Montvale (NJ): Thompson Medical Economics; 2000. Ginseng: 346-51.
[6.] Yokota T, Nishio H, Kubota Y, Mizoguchi M. The inhibitory effect of glabridin from licorice extracts on melanogenesis and inflammation. Pigment Cell Res. 1998;11:355-61.
[7.] Saeedi M, Morteza-Semnani K, Ghoreishi MR. The treatment of atopic dermatitis with licorice gel. J Dermatolog Treat. 2003;14:1537.
KALME contains an extract of Perilla oil which is derived from the seed of the plant Perilla frutescens. It is a very rich source of alpha-linolenic acid - about 50 to 60% of perilla oil is alpha-linolenic acid. Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid which is highly beneifical to skin and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobrial and anti fungal effects when applied topically [1] [2]
[1] Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2002 Apr;66(4):921-4.[2]Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 1990 Feb;15(2):95-7, 126-7.