Xanthium is often considered a noxious (invasive) weed. However, recent research has shown that this thorny plant found worldwide has anti-aging, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful as a skin protectant.
Is it good for the skin?
Experiments with cells and tissues have shown that compounds in the plant’s prickly fruits reduce the damage caused by UVB radiation and speed up wound healing, and extracts of the plant appear to affect the production of collagen, which improves skin elasticity and prevents wrinkles.
“We found that fart fruit has the potential to protect the skin and promote collagen production,” said Song Eun-soo, a doctoral student at Myongji University in South Korea, who conducted the study with the university’s professor Jina Hwang. “In this respect, fart fruit could be an attractive ingredient in creams and other cosmetic products. If mixed with other compounds that are effective in preventing ageing, such as hyaluronic acid or retinoic acid, it is likely to have a synergistic effect.”
what is that?
Cercopithecus is native to southern Europe, China and Central Asia but is an invasive weed that has spread worldwide. It is now commonly found in wet, sandy areas such as roadside ditches and riverbanks. The distinctive fruit, covered with a hard shell and burrs, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to help treat a variety of conditions, from headaches and stuffy nose to skin pigmentation disorders, tuberculosis-related illnesses and rheumatoid arthritis.
Exploring the possibilities of anti-aging
Recent studies have looked at its potential use in the treatment of cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. This study investigated its therapeutic potential in skin protection and wound healing.
The researchers first studied the molecular properties of Cercopithecus fruit extract. They then isolated compounds that may contribute to its anti-aging, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. After identifying the compounds, they used cell cultures and a 3D tissue model similar to human skin to evaluate how the compounds affect collagen production, wound healing, and damage caused by UBA injury.
What they found
According to the researchers, the results showed that extracts of Cercopithecus fruit promoted collagen production, accelerated wound healing and exhibited protective effects against UVB radiation. The survey results were announced Discover BMB American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Annual Meeting.
Comparing the bioactivity of fruits grown in different regions, it was found that cocklebur fruits grown in Korea had slightly higher levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity than those grown in China, as well as better wound-healing properties.
Findings come with a warning
Although these findings are promising, the researchers caution that these extracts may be harmful at high doses, and further research is needed to determine safe dosages and how to safely use them in cosmetics and medicines. The researchers plan to conduct further experiments to investigate the biological mechanisms involved and explore ways to safely use these extracts in cosmetics.
“The spines of Cercopithecus berry also contain carboxyatractylosides, toxic compounds that can damage the liver,” Song said. “Cercopithecus berry has shown potential as a cosmetic by increasing collagen synthesis, but high concentrations have had negative results. So finding the right concentration is very important and will be key to commercializing Cercopithecus berry extract in cosmetics.”
