Sanguinarine, commonly found in toothpaste and many mouthwashes, protects the body from developing skin cancer. Sanguinarine is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient. It is an alkaloid present in the blood root plant.

Sanguinarine enhances the production of proteins that make cells damaged by ultraviolet B radiation self destruct. It also limits skin cell production of proteins that help cancer cells thrive.

Researchers presented their findings to the American Association for Cancer Research at a meeting in Seattle.

Nihal Ahmad, head researcher, Wisconsin University, said “This natural compound may protect skin from cells that acquire the genetic damage caused by UV radiation from advancing toward cancer.”

He found that cells that were pretreated with sanguinarine were 49 - 66% more likely to perish after exposure to ultraviolet B radiation.

Sanguinarine is commonly used to treat gingivitis (an infection causing swelling and inflammation of the gums).