A dormant preparation (DC) is provided which is capable of inhibiting proliferation of various kinds of cells. The preparation comprises an extract which is obtained from cells or tissue originating in an organism capable of entering a phase of dormancy in at least one of its parts and comprises at least one substance which induces or maintains the state of dormancy in the organism from which the cells or tissue are derived. The DC may be used for a variety of indications including human medicine and cosmetics, plant growth control and food preservation.