Cell Savers: Anti-Ageing Naturally

Moringa

The Moringa plant has been utilised for its many health benefits for thousands of years, however, more recently another surprising advantage has come to light, skin rejuvenation. It’s the plant’s unique structure and high levels of anti-oxidants that make it a natural powerhouse against the signs of ageing. And not only that, it has a raft of other beauty benefits too.

Dubbed the miracle tree, Moringa oleifera is found in India, Asia, Africa and South America. Used medicinally for centuries, the benefits of Moringa are far reaching, from anti-depressant, to anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. It has gastro-intestinal benefits, contains niazimicin – thought to suppress cancer, is known to help maintain blood sugar levels and even help with weight loss. And although these are all amazing advantages, it is how rich the moringa plant is in freeradical fighting antioxidants that has the beauty world buzzing.

Moringa oil is derived from the seeds of the moringa tree. When pressed the seeds produce a pale non-drying oil that has a high concentration of fatty acids, is incredibly nutrientdense and due to antioxidants, a natural preservative, has a long shelf life. It may seem that every month there’s a new wonder oil, but it’s a well-earned title in this case. Here are just some of the ways moringa can boost your beauty routine:

HYDRATION PLUS

Not only does Moringa have excellent moisturising properties, it is also a great cleanser and emollient. As the oil absorbs easily, it helps to soften dry skin quickly and also maintain moisture. It is also beneficial for skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.

REJUVENATION

As we age our cells regenerate at a slower rate and our bodies produce less collagen and elastin (the important things that keep our skin firm and supple). Antioxidants helps to stop the damage to cells and encourages the skin to repair itself. Further to this the proteins found in Moringa actually accelerate the regrowth of new cells, while the vitamin A assists in collagen production. Which, science aside, equals tauter more youthful looking skin.

REDUCING LINES

Another powerful nutrient found in Moringa is Vitamin C which stabilizes collagen and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and repair damaged skin cells.

Product pick: Many skincare companies are harnessing Moringa’s powerful properties and it can be found as an active ingredient in everything from shampoo and lip balms to wrinkle creams and deodorants. Pure Fiji, known for sourcing the planet’s best botanicals for its products, has a new Moringa Infusion range. Pure Fiji combines moringa oil with other nutrient dense oils such as Virgin Coconut and Macadamia for a powerful formulation that is not only extremely hydrating for the skin but that has all the anti-aging weaponry. We particularly love the beautifully fragranced Pure Fiji Hydrating Body Lotion, find it at purefiji.com

Kakadu Plum

Kakadu plum, found in the Australian outback, has been found to have 100 times more vitamin C than an orange. These high levels of antioxidant rich vitamin C as well as gallic acid and ellagic acid make it great for promoting elasticity and suppleness.

Product pick: Rohr Remedy Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Face Serum, $54, rohrremedy.com

Mushroom

Due to some positive clinical trials that found two powerful antioxidants present in mushrooms, fungi is the latest darling of the beauty world. Porcini mushrooms in particular are an effective tool in fight against ageing with the highest incidence of free-radical fighting levels. Truly a superfood, they also have moisturising, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics.

Product pick: Empowder Vitality Mushroom of Life powder, $15, setthebar.co

Pomegranate

Pomegranate is an extremely popular ingredient in Asian skincare products due to the discovery of a molecule that prompts cells to recycle and rebuild essentially slowing the ageing process. Pomegranate extract has anti-viral and antioxidant properties.

Product pick: Esmi Pomegranate Brightening Serum, $65, esmi.com.au

Ginseng

Ginseng is an ancient Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat all manner of ailments. Recently, studies in Korea showed a compound in ginseng with powerful anti wrinkle and moisturising properties. Products containing ginseng also utilise the roots caffeine-like energising factors to brighten dull skin.

Product pick: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Cream, $32, haruharu.com.au

Green Tea

A powerful player in the fight against wrinkles, green tea – with its exceptionally high level of anti-aging antioxidants – dramatically increases cell turnover. Not only that, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin damage. Matcha is a potent concentrated form of green tea. The Chinese call it ‘the elixir of immortality’, and for good reason.

Product pick: Physicians Formula The Perfect Matcha Cleansing Balm, $32, amazon.com.au