This Chinese herb has a name that sounds like a flowering plant you might see in your front yard. But this plant isn't just for your landscape. The herb contains active flavonoids and carotenoids, which have a strong antioxidant effect. The Chinese have been using it for years because of its antibacterial properties and to reduce redness and swelling. Now research is exploring just why this herb is so beneficial for your skin.
In one recent study, researchers broke the plant phellodendron down to determine its components. They found that several of these components were effective in protecting the skin against exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They were able to scavenge free radicals and prevent them from damaging DNA and depleting antioxidant stores. Ultraviolet radiation also decreases immunity activity in animals. And, in animal studies, phellodendron not only increased skin antioxidant enzyme activities, it boosted immunity activities as well.
Why is phellodendron so good for your skin? It works partly because phellodendron is high in berberine, which is a natural antibacterial chemical found in many plants, including European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, and tree turmeric. This chemical has many uses for the skin. In fact, many people use it to treat burns, acne, and other skin problems. It also aids in reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). That means it helps the skin maintain its own natural moisture and appear healthier.
Phellodendron has many amazing properties, but when it comes to your skin, its ability to protect you from UV damage is critical. Both Systeme 41's Day Crème and Restorative Night Treatment will allow you to experience the free-radical scavenging benefits of this powerful herb.
Using these products will help keep your gene expression healthy and ward off skin diseases associated with damage from UV radiation. Science is still catching up with what our predecessors in the natural skin health field knew. And, when it comes to phellodendron, it's definitely proving that they were right all along.
To your health, naturally,
Janet Zand
Sources:
Int J Biol Macromol. 2011 Jun 1;48(5):720-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2011.02.014. Epub 2011 Feb 26.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11295297