The natural aging process, genetics and damage from the environment including the sun and smoking, contribute to wrinkles, according to Medline Plus. The earliest signs of wrinkles usually occur around and under the eyes, which is the thinnest skin in the body, around the corners of the mouth, and on other parts of the face that are constantly exposed. Herbal remedies may help to delay and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. Herbs should be used with the advice and supervision of an health care provider.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a Chinese herb highly respected for its anti-aging properties.
Ginseng contains ginsenosides that provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Antioxidants fight against free radicals and prevent damage to body cells. An eight-week study published in 2008 in the Journal of Ginsenghg Research by Min Jung Lee, Chong Hyun Won, et.al.,investigated if the effects of KTNG0345 prepared from red ginseng extract, taken orally, would reduce skin wrinkles formed in hairless mouse skin. Their results demonstrated that orally administered KTNG0345 has anti-wrinkling effects in hairless mouse skin and that dietary red ginseng extract may prevent UVB-induced skin wrinkles.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola or Centella asiatica may help remove wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the skin. This perennial plant is native to India, China and Japan, South Africa and the South Pacific. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, collagen provides structural support to the skin and our body structure. Collagen also appears to help in healing wounds. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, gotu kola has been used topically to treat minor burns, prevent post-operative scar formation and reduce stretch marks. Gotu kola is available in tablet, capsule and tincture form, as an ointment or as dried leaf for tea. Side effects of gotu kola include headache, upset stomach and contact dermatitis.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants protect the skin from damages. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a study found that a combination of topical vitamin C and gotu kola stimulated the production of collagen and decreased wrinkles and roughness of the skin. Rose hip is a natural source of vitamin C. Citrus fruits and vegetables like kale and broccoli, guavas and black currants are good sources of vitamin C.
References
- Medline Plus: Skin Wrinkles
- DPpia: Oral Administration of KTNG0345 Prepared from Red Ginseng Extracts Reduces UVB-induced Skin Wrinkle Formation in Hairless Mice
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Gotu Kola
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gotu Kola
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Wrinkles and Blemishes- Treatment
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