Abstract: The present invention provides a lipolysis acceleration method which comprises orally administering a thistle-series or pepper-family plant, or an extract thereof; or dermatologically applying it by local administration or as a bath medicine composition. According to the method of the present invention, marked lipolysis acceleration effects can be obtained. It exhibits excellent effects for the control, prevention and improvement of obesity.

Abstract: A bath composition is disclosed, which comprises a xanthine derivative or a .beta.-adrenergic stimulants. The bath composition, as dissolved in bath water, gives a moist (fresh) feel to the skin and a warm feel to the body. A method for imparting a moist feel to the skin and improving a warm feel of the body is also disclosed.

Abstract: Surface-treated sodium bicarbonate particles, the surfaces of which are coated with sodium carbonate or its double salt, are disclosed. Heat treatment or irradiation with micro waves o infrared light converts the surfaces of sodium bicarbonate particles into sodium carbonate. The surface-treated sodium bicarbonate particles exhibit an increased capacity to bind with other sodium bicarbonate particles as well as with other components when they are molded. They can be used as an excellent binder for molding various preparations. The products produced have a prolonged storage stability.

Abstract: A bathing preparation comprising at least one organic acid and at least one carbonate is disclosed. This bathing preparation contains fumaric acid in an amount of 20% by weight or more of the total of the organic acid and at least one highly volatile perfume. The perfume is not vaporized into the atmosphere. Therefore, the bathing preparation sustains its aroma in bath water for a long time, thus giving improved relaxant and refreshing effects.

Abstract: A bathing preparation comprising: (a) at least one carbonate; (b) at least one organic acid, wherein adipic acid amounts to 70% by weight or more of the total of the organic acid; and (c) at least one highly volatile perfume, is disclosed. The perfume is not vaporized into the air, thus the bathing preparation sustains its aroma in bath water for a prolonged period of time and exerts relaxing and refreshing bathing effects.

Abstract: A bathing preparation containing (a) fumaric acid, (b) a carbonate, (c) from 0.1 to 20% by weight, based on fumaric acid, of carboxymethyl cellulose, or an alkali metal salt thereof, having a viscosity of not higher than 2,000 cp in a 1.0% by weight aqueous solution at 25.degree. C., or at least 0.2% by weight, based on fumaric acid, of polyethylene glycol, and (d) not less than 0.02% by weight and less than 0.1% by weight, based on fumaric acid, of a nonionic surface active agent having an HLB of 7 or more. The bathing preparation causes neither floating of fumaric acid or foaming when it is dissolved in a bath nor foaming after it is dissolved and the bath is agitated.