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Copyright @ Pol J Cosmetol
Pol J Cosmetol 2014, 17(1): 2-13pl  Coumarins - properties and application in cosmetology and medicineAnna Skoczyńska, Adam Pastuszko, Elżbieta Budzisz Zakład Chemii Surowców Kosmetycznych, Wydział Farmaceutyczny, Uniwersytet Medyczny w Łodzi Summary Coumarins are a group of chemicals which occur naturally in many plant material. Some of these structures are derived from microorganisms. The diversity of chemical structures caused that the coumarins group is divided into simple coumarins, pyrone-substituted coumarins, furanocoumarins and pyranocoumarins. It also prompted many researchers to analyze their physicochemical and biological properties. This group of compounds is characterized by properties that can be used in many fields. They are often used in cosmetology, pharmacy, medicine, perfumery, food and plastics. Reports on carcinogenicity of coumarin caused that its use as a flavoring agent has been banned in the United States. Additional investigations on the toxicity of coumarin were carried out to determine the maximum amount that can be added to the final products. Also a list of prohibited harmful coumarins have been established The appropriate legal documents such as opinions and European directives have been issued. Key words: coumarins, fragrance, UV absorbers, cosmetics, health care, food, toxicity |