Herbal Help for Rejuvenating Your Skin

This new study shows that a combination of two herbs that are traditionally used

for skin increases collagen and hydration and improves skin elasticity, pores and

wrinkles.

The study included 150 men and women over the age of 20. 30% of them were

between 20 and 40, and 70% of them were over 40. The herbs being studied

were astragalus and gotu kola in equal combination. One group used the herbs

topically twice a day for 4 weeks, one group used the herbs orally twice a day for

12 weeks, and one group used both the topical and the oral formulas. Each

group was compared to a placebo group in double-blind fashion.

In the topical group, skin brightness increased by 2.5% versus 1% in the placebo

group, elasticity improved by 6.5% versus 1.2%, collagen increased by 8.7%

versus 6.8%, melanin decreased by 5.2% versus a 0.2% increase on placebo,

visible pores dropped by 10.6% versus a 0.9% increase on placebo. Skin texture

improved by 8.7% with the herbs compared to 2.3% with placebo, and moisture

retention improved by 7.6% compared to 1.8% with placebo.

In the oral supplement group, skin brightness improved by 2.5%, elasticity by

4.7%, collagen increased by 13.2%, melanin decreased by 6.3%. Rough skin

improved by 18.5%, and visible pores dropped by 10.5%.

Even better results were seen when people used the herbs orally and topically.

There was “remarkable and statistically significant improvements across all

measured skin parameters,” including a 4.2% increase in brightness, a 12.9%

improvement in moisture retention, a 9% increase in skin elasticity, a 13.7%

increase in collagen, an 8.2% decrease in melanin, and a 28.5% decrease in

pore count. Rough skin improved by 19.8%.

The study provides “compelling evidence” that astragalus and gotu kola enhance

skin health. The herbal combination improves both collagen and hydration,

rejuvenating the skin. The researchers conclude that the herbal combo is “a

promising natural solution for individuals seeking a holistic, evidence-based

strategy to support and enhance skin health.”

Cosmetics. 2025;12(4):131.