Psoralencontaining

Psoralencontaining refers to substances that include psoralen, a naturally occurring photosensitizing compound classified as a furanocoumarin. Psoralen occurs in a variety of plants and plant-derived extracts, including members of the Apiaceae family such as celery, parsley, and dill, as well as figs and certain citrus components. When exposed to ultraviolet A (UV-A) light, psoralen intercalates into DNA and forms covalent crosslinks, a reaction that can be therapeutic or harmful depending on context.

In medicine, psoralen is used as a photosensitizer in PUVA therapy (psoralen plus UVA) to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, and certain cutaneous lymphomas. The substance may be given orally or applied topically, followed by controlled UV exposure under clinical supervision. Outside of clinical use, psoralen-containing products can raise the risk of phototoxic reactions, especially after skin contact with psoralen-rich plants or ingestion of high-psoralen foods, combined with sun exposure.

Safety considerations include avoiding unnecessary UV exposure after handling psoralen-containing plants or foods, washing hands after preparing such items, and recognizing signs of phytophotodermatitis—redness, blistering, and hyperpigmentation. Cooking or processing can reduce psoralen levels, though effects vary by substance and method.

Regulatory and consumer aspects involve labeling and risk assessment for foods, herbal products, and certain cosmetics that contain psoralen or related furanocoumarins. Ongoing research addresses exposure risk, safe therapeutic protocols, and alternatives with reduced phototoxic potential.