6 Herbs Known to Boost Collagen

“Vegan collagen” per se does not exist. What does exist are plants that boost and protect our own body’s collagen production. Within nature’s pharmacopeia, there’s a plethora of herbs, foods, flowers, roots, and algae that have been studied to greatly help with collagen synthesis and production. You'll find some of them in the Dirty Rose Chai Collagen Booster in our Herbal Alchemy Box. 

Many of the medicinal herbs that naturally fall under this category have been used for centuries for many other functions other than “collagen.” They have long historical use as “anti-aging” plants that have across-the-board strengthening, mineralizing, immune protecting properties, with the added beautifying elements such as skin clearing, hair strengthening, and more. Here are six that you can incorporate into your lifestyle to boost your body's collagen production. 

1. Anti-Aging Adaptogen: He Shou Wu | Polygonum multiflorum, aka Fo-Ti

The root of the fo-ti plant can restore fertility, help maintain hair color, boost energy, rejuvenate the nerves and brain cells, tone the kidneys and liver, fortify the bones, and purify the blood. Athletes use it to improve performance and reduce recovery time.

This adaptogenic root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for more than 3,000 years. There are thousands of first-person reports and a handful of clinical studies of fo-ti (or preparations including the herb) demonstrating a remarkable ability to reverse hair loss and restore rich color to white or graying hair. It’s also very well known for its jing preserving qualities — our primordial energy that fuels life, sexuality, and vital essence, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

2. Ancient Bone Healer: Horsetail | Equisteum arvense, spp.

Horsetail is one of the oldest plants on the planet. The hollow stems and shoots of horsetail are a rich source of naturally occurring calcium, magnesium, potassium. and other valuable nutrients (including silica crystals). Many of the medicinal properties of horsetail can be attributed to its high silica content, which is easily absorbed by the human body.

Silica is an essential trace mineral that plays an important role in the development, strengthening, and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Silica also restores weak connective tissues in blood vessels, cartilage, tendons, and collagen — the body glue that helps hold our skin and muscle tissues together. Silica speeds the healing of bone fractures, is said to help rheumatism and arthritis by improving the elasticity of the joints, and is recommended to athletes for sprains, pulled hamstrings and torn ligaments.

3. The Immortal:  Gynostemma | Gynostemma pentaphyllum, aka Jiaogulan

Gynostemma contains over 80 different saponins (gypenosides) compared to the 28 found in ginseng. As well as these saponins, gynostemma is a natural antioxidant and a rich source of healthy vitamins and minerals. Many people suggest that gynostemma is one of the best adaptogens found in nature, also referred to as biological response modifiers.

Gynostemma is called the immortality herb for good reason. It was originally brought to scientific attention because population studies revealed that those who consumed it regularly were living longer and significantly healthier lives.

4. Ancient Mineralizer: Nettles | Urtica dioica

Nettles contain a high amount of calcium, silica, and sulfur, making them an excellent source to help boost collagen receptors. Nettles are often used in beauty products like shampoo and soap, as it restores, repairs, and is known for its antiseptic qualities.

Stinging nettle is a valuable tonic that can support the immune system, spleen, circulatory system, urinary tract, nervous system, respiratory tract, digestive system, and endocrine system, including the adrenals, thyroid and pancreas. In-vivo and in-vitro studies have also demonstrated its ability to protect from neurological damage, protect the immune system, strengthen bones, and even support prostate health. A plant of many remedies!

5. The Radiant One: Calendula | Calendula officinalis

Calendula has been used since ancient times for its phenomenal abilities to restore skin, assist in wound healing, and activate collagen receptors to increase the glow.

Folk medicine in different parts of the world has used it for its beautifying chemistry, from preventing wrinkles, to oxygenating the blood, to increasing overall circulation. Modern research has proven many of its healing abilities, along with noting its extraordinary ability to protect the skin from cellular and oxidative damage.

6. Vitamin C Haven | Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

This stunning flower is beautiful for so many reasons. For eons it’s been used as a  blood purifier, but it’s best known for its beautifying attributes like nourishing and hydrating the skin and hair, as a wound healer and assisting with hemorrhages. Hibiscus is known to encourage an all-around fresher, younger, smoother looking complexion. It’s been used both topically and internally for beautification for centuries.

Being high in Vitamin C, Hibiscus supports natural collagen production and supports collagen synthesis, strengthens bones, prevents elastin breakdown, may protect against wrinkles, and helps reduce oxidative stress (with its high levels of antioxidants and beta-carotene).

A huge thank you to Adriana from Anima Mundi for sharing her wisdom with us. Check out some of their awesome products in our boutique. 

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