Anti-ageing plants: Plants that combat the effects of ageing

Antioxidants reduce the properties of ageing as they slow down the effects of free radicals. This starts the oxidation process in your body, a process that causes damage from oxygen that can lead to cell dysfunction. Here’s a selection of easy-to-grow anti-ageing plants.

There are thousands of anti-ageing skincare products on the market. As general consumers we wouldn’t be able to identify any of the ingredients used in these products. Many of us are opting for the choice of natural skincare products and this is where plants play a crucial role.

Six common anti-ageing plants and products:

Watercress

Watercress (Nasturii herba) is rich in iron, iodine, vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants and folate. It is most beneficial eaten raw and can be used in salads or with lean proteins.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is nature’s alternative to Botox, chemical peels and plastic surgery. Drinking Aloe gel improves the body’s collagen production, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. The gel can also be applied to the skin directly which works wonderfully for burns, scars as well as acne.

READ MORE: Easy to grow aloes

Olive Oil

Olive is known for its anti-ageing benefits, whether used in food or applied externally. This is due to the polyphenols and oleic acid. The monosaturated fats in olive oil can help prevent the appearance of new and existing wrinkles contributing to the regeneration processes of the skin.

Milk Thistle

By drinking milk thistle, the liver is encouraged to produce a powerful antioxidant which aids in regeneration of skin cells, reducing the effects of ageing making your skin look younger and more glowing. Milk thistle is known botanically as Silybum marianum.

Rosemary

Rosemary helps to compensate for the lack of moisture in the skin, restoring the skin’s natural moisture levels, which is perfect for combating the appearance of wrinkles and sagging.

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