In vitro photoprotection and antioxidant capacity of Sphagnum meridense extracts, a novel source of natural sunscreen from the mountains of Colombia

Excessive ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancer and related health problems in humans. Traditionally, organic and inorganic sunscreens have been used to minimize these effects. Besides, some phenolic compounds present in plants play an important role as photoprotectors. Sphagnum meridense (L), found in Colombia, is continuously exposed to sunlight on high mountain ecosystems. In this work, we evaluated the potential of S. meridense...