Shikonin

Shikonin (shikonin, shikonin, shikonin) is a class of natural products with naphthoquinone structure extracted from the root of Lithospermum officinale, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and wound healing effects. In recent years, the anti-tumor effects of shikonin and its derivatives have been widely studied. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that shikonin and its derivatives can effectively inhibit the occurrence and development of gynecological malignancies such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. Shikonin exerts a powerful anti-cancer effect on various types of cancer by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration, inducing cell apoptosis, autophagy and necrotizing necrosis. Shikonin can also trigger the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibit the release of exosomes, and activate anti-tumor immunity through a variety of molecular mechanisms.

As a food colorant, my country stipulates that it can be used in fruit juice (flavor) drinks, fruit wine, ice cream and popsicles, with a maximum usage of 0.1g/kg. Uses Edible purple pigment. Used for coloring spicy meat and poultry cans, with a dosage of 0.35-0.56g/kg. The crushed lithospermum can be placed in a fine sieve, and hot oil at 160-170℃ is poured on it to dissolve the pigment in the oil. The oil flows out through the fine sieve and is mixed with the chili powder in the container. After being fully stirred, it is boiled into a mixed sauce for use.