The invention relates to a use of Cirsium japonicum var. austral extracts (CJVA) for whitening by applying an effective does of the CJVA to skin. The CJVA can be used to inhibit tyrosinase activities and melanin synthesis. Accordingly, the CJVA can be further utilized in manufacturing cosmetic compositions, food additives or pharmaceutical compositions for whitening.本發明係有關於一種南國小薊(Cirsium japonicum var.australe)萃取物於美白之應用,施予南國小薊萃取物一有效劑量於皮膚,可用以抑制酪胺酸酶活性以及抑制黑色素生成;藉此,南國小薊萃取物可用於製備美白淡斑之化妝材料組成物、食品添加物或醫藥組成物。
