[Megan30]

Hi ! This is my first time posting on this forum.

I´m a little bit confused. I´ve seen whitening products that contain mulberry extract. Is mulberry extract linked to hydroquinone ?

Thanks.

[chadazi]

Mullberry is natural it may be safe just like bearberry in products... they say natural is safest don't know how true this is.

[Thomas1970]

As far as I know, mulberry contains no hydroquinone. Plants like bearberry and pipsissewa do contain a chemical called arbutin, which when taken internally, the body will convert to hydroquinone. How much depends on the body's relative alkalinity. Hydroquinone is a urinary antiseptic, and is commonly used for such infections. Taken in moderate doses for shorter periods, it is considered relatively safe. I know not what the effects of hydroquinone on the skin are; though I know of no plants that naturally contain other than its precursor arbutin.

[kkasey1982]

Is mulbery the same thing as bearberry?

[Thomas1970]

No. They are two different plants. Bearberry is usually sold in healthfood stores under its scientific name, Uva Ursi.

[gillsamm]

Webmd has a video on this,from "Ask the Dermatologist" The dermatoligist says it is a over the counter subsitute for the prescribed hydroquinone, which can lighten circles under eyes and other skin pigmentation issues. Licorice extract also does this.