Spice-Derived Phenolic Compounds: Potential for Skin Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Abstract

Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.

Green Chemistry in Medical Applications: Preliminary Assessment of Kuzu Starch Films with Plant-Based Antiseptics

“…The use of chili pepper extract caused an inhibition area that was almost three times higher for S. aureus ATCC 25923 than for E. coli ATCC 25922 (Table 4). The antibacterial properties of chili pepper extract may result from the presence of capsaicin in chili fruit and cannabinoids in hemp oil [38,76]. Previous studies have reported that flavonoids and other active components such as capsaicin have potential antibacterial activity [45].…”

“…Capsaicin extracted from chili peppers has been reported to have antibacterial and antifungal effects [39]. Chili peppers also contain polyphenols, the healing effects of which were mentioned above [38].…”

“…Chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L., also known as hot peppers, red hot peppers, or red peppers) are well known and frequently added to dishes and sauces to give them a sharp and burning taste [38]. Capsaicin, contained in these peppers, irritates and warms the skin and causes a feeling of warmth and redness but does not cause inflammation.…”

Sustainable Countermeasures for Skin Health Improvement for Green Consumers: The Utilization of Hsian-Tsao during Global Warming

“…Therefore, and in consideration of the research showing that Hsian-tsao (Mesona chinensis Benth.) extract improves the heat resistance of D. melanogaster, the study of Hsian-tsao has implications for the development of customized inner-beauty and cosmetics products [33][34][35][36]51,52,[101][102][103][104][105][106][107].…”

Comparative Analysis of Phytocompound Variations in Leaves, Bark and Roots of Allspice (Pimenta Dioica) Collections in Tanzania

“…The plant's unique fragrance and flavor have made it a desirable ingredient in culinary endeavors worldwide [2]. Beyond its culinary uses, Allspice has a long history of traditional medicinal applications, ranging from digestive aid to pain relief, as well as antibacterial and antioxidant properties [3]. These attributes are due to the diverse range of phytocompounds present in different parts of the plant, including the leaves, bark, and roots [4].…”