By IANS
Washington : Broccoli sprouts contain antioxidant properties and may prevent skin cancer when applied directly to the skin, scientists in the US have suggested.
Broccoli, which closely resembles cauliflower, is a plant of the cabbage family. It has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was a favourite food of the ancient Romans.
It is already know that Broccoli is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A and fibre. Now scientists have found that it contain a chemical called sulphoraphane that stimulates the body’s natural anti-cancer ability. The richest source of this chemical can be found in its sprouts.
Scientists at the Johns Hopkins University smeared broccoli sprout extract on the skin of six volunteers for three days and then exposed them to high doses of ultraviolet radiation, which is the leading cause of skin cancer, reported the online edition of the Voice of America.
The researchers found there was an average 37 percent less redness and sunburn in the patches covered by broccoli extract. Redness and sunburn are an indication of skin damage that could lead to cancer.