The fact that the skin is the most visible organ makes us aware of the ageing process every minute. The use of plant extracts and herbs has its origins in ancient times. Chronological and photo-ageing can be easily distinguished clinically, but they share important molecular features. We tried to gather the most interesting evidence based on facts about plants and plant extracts used in antiaging products. Our main idea was to emphasize action mechanisms of these plant/herbal products, that is, their “strategies” in fighting skin ageing. Some of the plant extracts have the ability to scavenge free radicals, to protect the skin matrix through the inhibition of enzymatic degradation, or to promote collagen synthesis in the skin. There are some plants that can affect skin elasticity and tightness. Certainly, there is a place for herbal principles in antiaging cosmetics. On the other hand, there is a constant need for more evaluation and more clinical studies in vivo with emphasis on the ingredient concentration of the plant/herbal products, its formulation, safety, and duration of the antiaging effect.
The fact that the skin is the most visible organ makes us aware of the ageing process every minute. The use of plant extracts and herbs has its origins in ancient times. Chronological and photo-ageing can be easily distinguished clinically, but they share important molecular features. We tried to gather the most interesting evidence based on facts about plants and plant extracts used in antiaging products. Our main idea was to emphasize action mechanisms of these plant/herbal products, that is, their “strategies” in fighting skin ageing. Some of the plant extracts have the ability to scavenge free radicals, to protect the skin matrix through the inhibition of enzymatic degradation, or to promote collagen synthesis in the skin. There are some plants that can affect skin elasticity and tightness. Certainly, there is a place for herbal principles in antiaging cosmetics. On the other hand, there is a constant need for more evaluation and more clinical studies in vivo with emphasis on the ingredient concentration of the plant/herbal products, its formulation, safety, and duration of the antiaging effect.
Nature has made certain laws that are almost inescapable. Unfortunately, aging is one among them. But, the fact is no one wants to age, simply because it makes us weak and wreak havoc on our skin, only to make us look dull, and our skin saggy with umpteen wrinkles and fine lines.
The fear of all these pushes us to look out for ways and various anti-aging products to preserve our youthful look. While there are so many ways to prevent or reverse signs of aging, millions of people today heavily rely on herbal and natural ways to restore the youthfulness of their skin, not just because they are cost effective, but safe and offer their long-lasting befits.
Discussed below are some of the best herbs that are largely known to improve the skin as well as overall health. Know more about them and include them wisely in your routine to say goodbye to aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.
Here’s the comprehensive herbal anti-aging guide to achieve flawless and younger-looking skin.
15 Best Anti-Aging Herbs For Youthful Skin
Let’s be honest. If you were granted a wish to turn the skin clock back, you would love to do that. I mean, who wouldn’t? Unfortunately, none of us have the magic lamp, and no genie is going to grant us that wish. But hey! There is a world full of magic and wonder deep within nature. Puzzled? Don’t be – because I am here to reveal some of Nature’s best kept anti-aging secrets that can slow down the signs of aging. So, here we go!
15 Anti-Aging Herbs To Fight Skin Aging
1. Basil
Holy basil or tulsi helps in preventing the signs of aging. Excessive UV exposure damages your skin and causes collagen depletion. Collagen is the compound that maintains the elasticity of your skin. In a study, researchers found that topical application of basil helped in retaining skin moisture levels, reduced skin roughness and scaliness, prevented wrinkles, and made the skin smooth (1).
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties. It is also said to have anti-aging benefits as it prevents collagen breakdown and prevents loss of skin elasticity. A study says that it also boosts collagen synthesis and prevents signs of aging (2).
3. Clove
Clove has immense health benefits. Clove oil is widely used in Ayurveda for treating many ailments. A study has also found that clove has free radical scavenging properties and contains antioxidants that slow down signs of aging (3).
4. Ginger
This herb has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for over thousands of years for treating multiple ailments. Ginger has high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help in preventing the signs of aging. A study found that ginger could control the production of harmful free radicals that affect your metabolism and increase oxidative stress, which is harmful to your skin (4).
5. Guggula
Guggula is a very powerful herb that is extracted from the Mukul Myrrh tree. A study found that Guggula could prevent wrinkles (5). It is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the effect of the harmful free radicals.
6. Gingko
This is one herb that has been widely studied for its immense health benefits. Gingko biloba is revered for its memory boosting properties, but it is also known for its anti-aging benefits. A clinical study found that Gingko extracts, when applied on skin, could prevent wrinkles and improve the skin texture by boosting hydration and skin smoothness and reducing roughness (6).
7. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng or winter cherry is an extremely popular herb used for its medicinal properties. It has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and cognitive boosting properties and is loaded with alkaloids that protect the cells (including skin cells) from oxidative stress and damage. This keeps your skin healthy and the signs of aging at bay (7).
8. Ginseng
This Chinese medicinal herb is popular worldwide for its anti-aging benefits. A study found that a mixture of ginseng and Chinese hawthorn protected the skin from the effects of aging. It improves pro-collagen synthesis and moisture levels of the skin and prevents wrinkle formation (8).
9. Horsetail
Also called shave grass or mare’s tail, this perennial herb contains natural silicon that can give you youthful and glowing skin. Horsetail contains flavonoids, vitamins E and C, carotenoids, and coenzyme Q10 that improve the collagen levels in your skin, neutralize the harmful free radicals, and enhance the skin firmness (9).
10. Oregano
This herb not just makes your food taste good, but it also helps in slowing down the aging of your skin. Oregano is a storehouse of antioxidants and flavonoids that prevent free radical damage and delay the signs of aging (10).
11. Rosemary
This herb protects your skin from photo-damage. Excessive exposure to UV rays causes fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of UV-induced aging. Rosemary prevents photo-damage while improving your skin’s elasticity and preventing wrinkles (11).
12. Sage
Sage is rich in antioxidants that help in reversing the signs of aging, such as age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. Sage contains flavonoids, phenolic carboxylic acids, phenolic diterpenes, and other antioxidants that protect your skin from aging (12).
13. Thyme
This is another herb with multiple benefits. It not only makes your food flavorful but also prevents skin damage and signs of aging. Thyme is a free radical scavenger and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect your skin from the signs of aging (13).
14. Gotu Kola
In Ayurveda, Gotukola is considered a magic remedy for its Vayasthapana (meaning age-defying properties). The Ayurvedic texts say that it maintains a balance between all the dos-has in your body and promotes collagen synthesis (14).
15. Turmeric
Whether it is for treating an infection, a cut, or a bruise or improving your immunity, turmeric is a magic solution for everything. But did you know that it has age-defying properties? Yes. That’s because of a compound called curcumin. This compound is a strong antioxidant that has free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties that protect your skin from UV-induced signs of aging (15).
How To Use Curcumin For Anti-Aging Benefits
Sometimes, it’s in your genes. And while some women look younger even in their 40s, a few others age faster. There’s nothing that can be done about it. I do not promise that these herbs will lock eternal youth in your skin, but they can definitely help your skin cells stay healthy and nourished. So, instead of relying on chemicals, try these remedies and give your skin the best possible chance to look good and age slowly.The following two tabs change content below.
7 Anti-Ageing Herbs to Help You Look and Feel Younger
Categories: Lifestyle Author: Team Seniority
The moment women cross the age of 30, they start taking more care of their skin. We all know its highly important to eat right in order to not only young but also feel young. There are a plethora of anti-ageing products available in the market with various promises but only a few are worth trying.
It’s time to go herbal.
Ayurveda- the science of self-healing has got you covered. Ayurvedic herbs can help you delay the signs of ageing and combat its visibility on your skin. These herbs are rich in antioxidants that fight against cell damage and initiate new cell growth.
Here is a list of 7 anti-ageing herbs you should include in your diet now to reap their benefits.
1. Basil
Basil tops the list of herbs for fighting visible signs of ageing on your skin. It is the new anti-ageing superfood that can help you in your fight against wrinkles. Topical application of basil can prove beneficial in retaining the moisture and hydration of the skin, reduce roughness, and give a smooth texture to the surface.
2. Guduchi
Also known as Giloy, this herb has immense anti-inflammatory properties. It works towards reviving the skin’s tissue and fight inflammation. The herb, along with benefitting the skin, also improves the immune system and promotes mental clarity.
3. Ashwagandha
This herb has long been famous for its rejuvenating properties and benefits for the skin, hair, and overall health. Consuming this herb on a regular basis will drastically change your skin’s appearance, make it more youthful, glowing, and improve its quality. The herb also works on reducing wrinkles and makes the skin firmer.
4. Amla
Amla or Amalaki is a rich source of anti-oxidants and Vitamin C. Its anti-ageing properties can promote healthy skin by firming it, reducing signs of ageing, and make your skin glow. The herb also has visible effects on hair texture, strength and growth.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is no less than a magic herb. It has long been known as the herb that can do it all. From treating cuts and bruises to improving the immune system to fighting chronic pains, or making you look and feel younger, turmeric can do it all. The compound curcumin found in turmeric has amazing age-defying properties. The compound can fight free radical damage and curb inflammation. This also protects your skin from the damage caused by the harmful sun rays. The herb’s antioxidants also keep diseases far away. Topical application and consumption of this herb both have commendable benefits for an overall healthy body.
6. Ginseng
Ginseng, a name often heard in the Japanese and Korean beauty products, is a fantastic anti-ageing herb. The phytochemicals present in this herb fight ageing signs and activate the skin’s metabolism. The herb also fights and protects your skin from free radical damage caused due to sun exposure.
7. Gotu-kola
Gotu-kola is another extremely important and effective anti-ageing herb. It is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that nourish the skin and enhance collagen production to fight visible signs of ageing. The herb also promotes overall wellbeing of the body.
While these herbs may not do everything to keep you looking younger forever, they will surely keep your cells healthy, and your skin nourished. Therefore, instead of looking for chemical-laden products to fight the process of ageing, try these herbs and see what they can do for your skin, hair, and overall health.