Phytochemical Profiles and Melanin Inhibition Potential of Three Lilium Species

Skin whitening agents have attracted increasing interest not only for their esthetic appeal but also for their potential therapeutic applications in managing hyperpigmentation-related skin disorders. The Lilium genus, well-known for its ornamental, medicinal, and edible properties, contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds with numerous pharmacological effects. Despite the increasing interest in their cosmetic applications, the melanin-inhibiting potential of Lilium flowers remains underexplored. This study analyzed the phytochemical profiles of three Lilium species and assessed their ability to inhibit melanin synthesis. Lilium lancifolium Thunb. exhibited the highest overall content of identified phytochemicals─including phenolics, carotenoids, and vitamin E─and demonstrated superior efficacy in inhibiting melanin formation. Key phytochemical components, including regaloside C, regaloside A, lutein, α-tocopherol, and α-tocotrienol, were identified as the most significant melanin-inhibiting agents. This study not only highlights the potential value of Lilium flowers in skin whitening but also offers valuable insights for the comprehensive utilization of Lilium. As a sustainable source of bioactive compounds, Lilium flowers hold great promise for applications in daily chemicals, functional food ingredients, and pharmaceuticals.