5 herbs known for their anti-ageing properties

There’s no such thing as a magical fountain of youth, however, there are dietary changes that can assist in keeping you looking younger for longer.

There are a number of herbs known for their anti-ageing properties that you can quite easily incorporate into your diet. Most help through their large percentage of antioxidants—which are essential for keeping your skin looking and feeling firm.

St. Mary’s Thistle

St Mary’s Thistle is categorised by its bright-purple flower and impressive greenery. It has long been used in supplements as an anti-ageing herb. This herb works because its fruit contains the active ingredient of silybin—which reduces toxicity in the liver and reduces oxidative stress. Its ability to help reduce chelatable iron and free radicals (bad substances) means it can all help with chronic diseases including arthritis and cancer. 

Garlic

Garlic is well known for its antiviral and antibiotic properties—it has been used for hundreds of years to cure a large number of ailments. What is not more commonly known is that garlic is great for anti-ageing as well. Garlic’s anti-ageing properties come from its active ingredient allicin. Allicin is a powerful antioxidant that is extremely effective in fighting free radicals to keep your skin looking tight and youthful.

Green Tea

Green tea is again one of those herbs that is rich in antioxidants. Green tea contains powerful antioxidants called polyphenols and flavonols; these both seek out and destroy any free radicals in the body. The good news is that the antioxidants in green tea also help with the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Bilberry

Bilberries are small blue berries that have a similar taste and look to blueberries.

They are rich in antioxidants and research suggests they are an incredible defence against the early signs of ageing. Their antioxidant properties can help with wrinkles, scars and general skin firmness. They also promote healthy vision; which is useful for people with macular degeneration and cataracts.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a herb that has a number of health benefits. The colourful, yellow spice is commonly used in curries and teas.  Like the other herbs listed, turmeric is great for preventing oxidative stress, which in turn helps prevent wrinkles and fine lines. Tumeric also works as an anti-inflammatory and lowers the risk of brain and heart disease.

Do you use any of these herbs on a regular basis? What anti-ageing tips do you have?