News > Ward off wrinkles: Scientists discover anti aging power in an invasive weed

Ward off wrinkles: Scientists discover anti aging power in an invasive weed

The fruit of the cocklebur plant, which grows worldwide and is often considered a noxious weed, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components that could make it useful as a skin protectant. Researchers, in lab tests, found that compounds in the species’ spiky fruits reduced damage from UVB exposure and sped wound healing. The cocklebur extracts also appear to influence the production of collagen, a protein that gives skin its elasticity and prevents wrinkles.