Echinacea's Anti-Aging Skin Benefits

Collagen fibers and elastin are important components of skin that keep it looking supple and healthy. As we age, excessive enzyme activity can break down collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkled, dry skin.⁽¹³⁴⁾

A clinical study on skin cream and gel formulations containing Echinacea purpurea suggests that it may help fight two of the signs of aging skin — wrinkles and dryness. Use of either preparation for a one-month trial period increased hydration and decreased wrinkles without irritation in 10 healthy study participants (ages 25-40). However, study authors did note that the cream and gel formulations used only had a shelf-life of two and four months.⁽⁵⁴⁾

How Does Echinacea Prevent Wrinkles?

Evidence from lab studies suggest echinacea compounds can help protect skin structure:

• Echinacoside and cynarine compounds from E. purpurea, E. pallida, and E. angustifolia may reduce collagen damage from free radicals.⁽⁴⁶⁾
• Caftaric acid (found in echinacea roots) inhibits the enzymes that break down collagen.^(133, 134)