Astragalus Benefits For Skin To Make Your Skin Look Young

Astragalus is a genus of over 3,000 species of herbs and small shrubs belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to the temperate regions of Asia, particularly China and Mongolia, where it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

The root of the astragalus plant is the most commonly used part, and it has been used for its medicinal properties for over 2,000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The root is typically harvested after the plant is 4-5 years old, and it is then dried and used in a variety of forms, including powders, extracts, and teas.

Astragalus has been used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including respiratory infections, fatigue, and immune system disorders. It contains various active compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, that are believed to have various health benefits.

In recent years, astragalus has gained popularity as an ingredient in skincare products due to its potential anti-aging, moisturising, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the skin and how to use it safely and effectively.

Helps in Anti-aging

Astragalus is believed to have anti-aging properties due to its ability to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin, and its production decreases as we age. This leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.

Astragalus contains various active compounds, such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, that have been shown to stimulate collagen production in the skin. By promoting collagen synthesis, astragalus can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

In addition to its collagen-boosting properties, astragalus also contains antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the ageing process. By neutralising free radicals, astragalus can help to prevent oxidative stress and protect the skin from premature ageing.

While the exact mechanisms by which astragalus promotes collagen synthesis and protects against free radicals are still being studied, its potential anti-aging effects make it a promising ingredient for skincare products. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and how to use it safely and effectively.

Helps in Moisturising the skin

Astragalus is believed to help moisturise the skin by promoting the production of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin that helps to keep it hydrated and moisturised.

Astragalus contains various active compounds, such as polysaccharides, that have been shown to promote the production of hyaluronic acid in the skin. By increasing the amount of hyaluronic acid, astragalus can help to improve skin hydration, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid also helps to improve skin texture and tone, making it look plumper and more youthful. It also helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, which can help to prevent moisture loss and keep the skin hydrated for longer.

In addition to promoting hyaluronic acid production, astragalus also contains antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to dryness, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of astragalus on skin hydration, its potential moisturizing properties make it a promising ingredient for skincare products. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new supplements or products on your skin.

Helps in Anti-inflammation

Astragalus is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties due to its ability to reduce the production of inflammatory molecules in the body. Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis.

Astragalus contains various active compounds, such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. These compounds can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that contribute to the inflammatory response.

By reducing inflammation, astragalus may help to alleviate symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which are characterised by inflamed, itchy, and irritated skin. It may also help to soothe other types of skin irritation, such as redness and swelling caused by acne or sunburn.

While the exact mechanisms by which astragalus reduces inflammation are still being studied, its potential anti-inflammatory effects make it a promising ingredient for skincare products. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and how to use it safely and effectively. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new supplements or products on your skin.

Helps in Sun protection

Astragalus may help protect the skin from sun damage due to its antioxidant properties. Sun exposure can lead to the production of free radicals, which can damage skin cells and contribute to premature ageing and skin cancer.

Astragalus contains various active compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins, that have been shown to have antioxidant properties. These compounds can neutralise free radicals and prevent them from causing damage to skin cells.

In addition, astragalus has been found to have photoprotective effects, meaning it can help protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation is a major cause of sun damage, including sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer.

Studies have shown that astragalus can help to reduce the damage caused by UV radiation, such as DNA damage and oxidative stress. By protecting the skin from UV damage, astragalus may help to prevent the development of skin cancer and other sun-related skin issues.

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of astragalus on sun protection, its potential photoprotective properties make it a promising ingredient for skincare products. However, it’s important to note that astragalus should not be used as a replacement for sunscreen or other sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Astragalus is a herbaceous plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It contains various active compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, that have potential health benefits, such as anti-aging, immune system support, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Astragalus has gained popularity as an ingredient in skincare products due to its potential moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to protect the skin from sun damage. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the skin and how to use it safely and effectively, astragalus holds promise as a natural ingredient in skincare products.

As with any supplement or skincare ingredient, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using astragalus, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.