Effect of Panax Ginseng Extracts on the Experimentally Induced Comedones

Im, Sung Bin; Choi, Eung Ho; Bang, Dong Sik; Chun, Soo Il; Lee, Jung Bock

Abstract

In this animal study, comedones were induced by topical application of oleic acid onto the rabbit ear canal and the histopathologic and ultrastructural changes in response to topical application of HO and hexane extracts of red ginseng, and saponin were measured. No microscopical difference was observed between treatment groups. Nucle ir remnants were observed in the horny cell layer as well as the thinning of the granular cell layer. Scattered and decreased keratohyaline granules were also noted. Six weeks after initiation of treatment, we observed the thinning of epidermis and veappearance of granular cell layer with normal keratohyaline granules. After treatment, scanning electron microscopy showed a decrease in the size of comedones, and loosened and desquamating horny cells in the comedones. From the above results, it could be concluded that Panax ginseng extracts might have effects on the keratinization process of the skin.