As we age, our body undergoes significant biological changes that affect the skin, brain, metabolism, digestion, and bones. In addition, wrinkles appear, a small belly takes shape, and the ability to concentrate decreases. Fortunately, some plants are very effective in slowing down the effects of time on the body.
How aging affects the body
One of the most visible effects of aging is on the skin, which loses elasticity and forms wrinkles. Aging also leads to a progressive decline in cognitive functions causing difficulty in concentration, loss of memory, and in some cases, the onset of neurodegenerative disease.
In addition, aging slows down intestinal transit leading to poorer assimilation of nutrients during digestion. As we grow older the kidney struggles to eliminate toxins. The bones become more fragile, leading to fractures and osteoporosis. Metabolism also slows down: muscle mass decreases while fat mass increases, especially in the stomach.
Further, older women suffer from the symptoms associated with menopause and andropause: the disappearance of the menstrual cycle, intimate dryness, hot flashes, and reduced libido. These changes vary in frequency and intensity depending on the person. The good news is that there are anti-aging plants that can help you slow down these effects.
Plants that slow down the effects of aging
1. Turmeric
This spice has powerful antioxidant properties that protect the nervous system and seem to slow down cognitive decline. According to several studies, it could even prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
How to use it
You can use it as an infusion, by adding 0.5 to 1 g of rhizome powder in 150 ml of boiling water (2 to 4 cups per day), or in the form of an extract standardized in curcuminoids (200 to 400 mg, three times a day). You can also simply sprinkle this spice generously in good little dishes.
2. Chokeberry
Chokeberry is a powerful antioxidant: it contains three times more anthocyanin than blackcurrant or blueberry. This North American plant slows cell aging, reduces bad cholesterol levels, and improves cognitive abilities.
How to use it
Eat a tablespoon of berries daily, in yogurt or as they are.
3. Soy
Soy, and specifically soy lecithin slows down the aging of all tissues, especially bones. It also lowers bad cholesterol levels and prevents cardiovascular diseases.
How to use it
Take one capsule in the morning and one in the evening (it is found in the form of soft capsules containing 500 mg of lecithin). You can also consume soy protein in your daily diet.
4. Wheat germ oil
Wheat germ oil is rich in essential fatty acids (linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acids), beta-sitosterol, and vitamin E. It protects the arteries against atherosclerosis and lowers blood cholesterol levels. Rich in antioxidants, it slows down cell aging and has regenerative properties.
How to use it
Take it orally in the form of capsules. You can also use it as an application on the face, the contour of the eyes, and the neck, in order to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and soften the skin. It can be applied as it is or diluted in your day cream.
5. Borage oil
Borage is a Mediterranean plant with star-shaped blue flowers. The oil extracted from its seeds is very rich in essential fatty acids such as gamma-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, which are important for the integrity of our cell membranes. It moisturizes the skin, restores its suppleness, and prevents wrinkles. It also fights against stretch marks and strengthens brittle nails.
How to use it
Absorbed orally, this oil can effectively fight against skin dryness, the cause of premature aging of the skin. It is advisable to consume it regularly to benefit from its effects.
6. Gotu Kola
Gotu kola improves memory and cognitive abilities, so it is an ally against age-related brain decline. This plant accelerates healing and fights against venous insufficiency and anxiety. It is also a natural anti-wrinkle because it stimulates the production of collagen, hydrates the skin, and limits its slackening.
How to use it
Internally in the form of a standardized extract (in capsules or tablets). Externally, in 1% concentrated creams or in compresses soaked in an infusion.
7. Lesser Periwinkle
The lesser periwinkle acts on the arteries of the brain, slowing down the effects of aging on this organ.
How to use it
You should take this cerebral anti-aging capsule once in the morning, noon, and evening, every other week.
8. Ginseng
Ginseng is a very effective tonic for seniors. Indeed, this herbaceous plant fights physical fatigue and stress, improves mental performance, and facilitates convalescence.
How to use it
Orally, in the form of capsules dosed at 250 mg of powder (two in the morning and two at noon, with a large glass of water), for a maximum of three months. Be careful, however, as it is contraindicated for people suffering from nervousness, obesity, high blood pressure, pregnant or breastfeeding women and children.
9. Gingko Biloba
Gingko Biloba has a circulatory action on the brain, eyes, and ears. It improves memory, and vision by irrigating the retinas. It prevents hearing senescence and acts against ringing in the ears.
How to use it
Against cerebral vascular insufficiency, at the rate of 100 drops diluted in a glass of water, three times a day. Against memory loss and dizziness, it works better as a dry extract, 50 to 100 mg three times a day, before meals.
10. Sea buckthorn
Sea buckthorn fruit is thirty times richer in vitamin C than an orange, and an oil rich in essential fatty acids, with great antioxidant properties. It is quite popular in the cosmetics industry for its anti-aging benefits. It also protects against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
How to use it
In cutaneous application, pure or diluted in aloe vera.
Take away
While it is impossible to completely stop aging, using these anti-aging plants will help you slow down the process. The sooner you start, the sooner you will look younger. Good luck!
