In the beauty world, collagen is commonly added to products to help improve the appearance of skin. However, if our skin already makes it, wouldn’t be it better to naturally boost collagen production and improve our skin’s internal functions? If you prefer to improve your body’s systems instead of overloading them with synthetic chemicals, then you’ll be pleased to hear there are ways to naturally boost collagen. As always, nature provides an array of lovely ingredients that we can use in cosmetics, teas, and food to help encourage collagen production. Discover how you can naturally boost collagen production by using herbs in the comfort of your home.

What is Collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein, and your body is full of it, from bones to muscles to skin to tendons. In fact, it makes up about 30% of the body’s protein composition. This protein is vital to many bodily functions, especially helping blood clot and structuring the skin. There are various types of collagen, and each type of collagen serves its own function.

• I – This type of collagen has densely packed fibres that give structure to teeth, bones, tendons, cartilage, connective tissue and skin. 90% of your body’s collagen is type I.
• II – With more loosely packed fibres, type II can mainly be found in elastic cartilage in the body’s joints.
• III – Type III collagen structures the organs, muscles, and arteries.
• IV – Helping with filtration in the body, type IV makes up the layers of your skin.

How Does Collagen Production Work?

All in all, nutrients in the body combine to create collagen. Although before it can make collagen, the body must make procollagen, which is achieved by combining two amino acids, known as proline and glycine. Nonetheless, for the body to be able to do this, it requires Vitamin C. Therefore, for your body to produce collagen you must consume Vitamin C and these two amino acids, all of which are available in a variety of foods. 

What Slows Collagen Production?

While collagen production never truly stops, it does significantly slow as the years go on. Studies have shown more cells are attached to collagen fibres in younger individuals than in older individuals, leading to reduced collagen synthesis. However, a person’s lifestyle can also greatly affect their collagen production. For instance, consuming too many carbs or sugar can reduce the body’s ability to naturally boost collagen production. Furthermore, smoking has also shown to affect collagen synthesis, leading to wrinkles and reduced wound healing. Last but not least, too much sun exposure can also damage the skin and reduce collage production due to the excessive amounts of ultraviolet radiation. 

Herbs That Naturally Boost Collagen

With good habits and powerful nutrients, you can naturally boost collagen production, keeping your skin and body healthier because of it. Here are herbs that may be able to help:

• Horsetail – Revered as one of the oldest plants on earth, horsetail is full of nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It is also full of silica, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth, restoring any weak connective tissues in the body.
• Gynostemma – Offering 80 different saponins, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, gynostemma has the nickname of the “immortality herb”. Studies illustrate that this herb can combat the signs of ageing, alongside helping with fatigue, insomnia, memory loss, and more.
• Nettles – The silica, calcium, and sulfur in nettles make them excellent for naturally boosting collagen production. Several studies point to its ability to strengthen bones and the immune system, support prostate health, and even protect against nerve damage.
• Hibiscus – Fragrant Hibiscus is high in Vitamin C, making it perfect for collagen production and skin renewal. It can also help prevent elastin breakdown, combat fine lines and minimise oxidative stress, which can speed up ageing.
• He Shou Wu – Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 3,000 years, He Shou Wu works to calm the endocrine system, nourishing it with its adaptogenic abilities. High in zinc, this herb helps treat hair, allowing it to grow strong and healthy.
• Comfrey – Another ancient medicinal herb, comfrey has a history of use in treatments to strengthen bones. This is due to its high levels of Vitamin C, calcium and magnesium.

The Takeaway

Naturally boost collagen production in your skin and enjoy a glowing complexion using these herbs. Should you be searching for more natural skincare, learn about our WapoBeauty eBooks. Plus, there is still time to reserve a spot for the Mamas & Babies Skincare Online Workshop this March 27th. Find comprehensive skincare lessons in our Complete Facial Skincare Online Course for Beginners and make professional, safe, and stable natural beauty products. We invite you to enrol in the course where you will learn how to make a luxurious Hyaluronic acid serum, cleanser, cream, face mask, moisturiser, gel, lotion, serum, toner, mist, exfoliant, elixir, ointment and fresh cosmetics.

About Our Blogger

Ashuni Pérez is an American writer based in Valencia, Spain. She has a passion for natural beauty and the environment. Ashuni loves to cycle and drink smoothies in the sun. Follow her on Instagram at @ashuuuuni.