The cocklebur is a plant used in traditional medicine that is the subject of several studies. The latest to date shows that the fruit of this plant would protect the skin, giving it an anti-aging property.
The fruit of cocklebur, a herbaceous plant considered a weed, is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that protect the skin. The new research consisted of examining the molecular properties of fruit extracts from the plant, then selecting the most interesting compounds to reveal a triple interest. Indeed, the results showed that cocklebur fruit extracts reduced the damage caused by exposure to UVB rays and accelerated wound healing. They would also promote the production of collagen, a protein that gives the skin its elasticity and prevents wrinkles.
Surprisingly, researchers found that fruits grown in South Korea showed slightly higher antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than those grown in China. The study was presented in Seattle this March, at the annual meeting of the’American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Find the right dose
Native to southern Europe, central Asia and China, the cocklebur is now widespread throughout the world in wet or sandy areas. It is already used as a traditional medicinal plant to treat nasal sinusitis, headaches and arthritis. Scientists have also explored its potential use in treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
Cocklebur could be an interesting ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics. However, finding the right concentration is essential, as researchers have warned that high doses of its fruit extracts can be harmful or even toxic.