Provided are: a physiologically active composition which contains a component originating from edible plant(s), exhibits a microphthalmia-associated transcription factor-inhibiting effect and is superior in melanin synthesis-inhibiting effect to conventional products； a method for manufacturing the same； a microphthalmia-associated transcription factor-inhibiting agent； and a melanin synthesis inhibiting agent. Parasenecio hastatus (L.) H.Koyama subsp. orientalis (Kitam.) H.Koyama and/or Parasenecio hastatus (L.) H.Koyama subsp. tanakae (Franch. et Sav.) H.Koyama are extracted with an alcohol to give a physiologically active composition containing a microphthalmia-associated transcription factor-inhibiting component that originates from Parasenecio hastatus (L.) H.Koyama subsp. orientalis (Kitam.) H.Koyama and/or Parasenecio hastatus (L.) H.Koyama subsp. tanakae (Franch. et Sav.) H.Koyama. Then, a microphthalmia-associated transcription factor-inhibiting agent and a melanin synthesis inhibiting agent, each agent comprising the aforesaid physiologically active composition, are prepared.
