Inflammation, the root cause of numerous medical issues such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, neurodegenerative conditions, and cardiovascular and pulmonary problems, is also known for its role in premature aging and early death. For thousands of years, people have relied on natural remedies to alleviate a variety of ailments and preserve their youth. Today, ongoing research suggests several naturally occurring substances may indeed slow down the progression of inflammation and even potentially turn back the clock.
Ancient Remedies with Modern Applications
In a study led by Professor Declan Naughton from Kingston University’s School of Life Sciences, researchers examined 21 plant extracts for evidence of their effectiveness in combating both cancer and aging. Of these extracts, three—white tea, witch hazel, and rose—demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, with white tea showing the most exceptional results. Naughton noted that simply drinking a cup of white tea could potentially help reduce an individual’s risk of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and even age-associated wrinkles.
What makes these ancient remedies so effective in promoting health and longevity? Let’s dive into the various properties and uses of these three plant extracts.
White Tea
White tea is the least processed of all tea varieties and is known for its mild flavor and high concentration of antioxidants. Research on white tea has unveiled numerous health benefits, including:
- Aiding weight loss
- Improving cardiovascular health
- Boosting metabolism
- Enhancing skin and hair health
- Strengthening teeth and bones
- Providing cognitive support
Notably, white tea has an extremely high content of catechins, flavonoid antioxidants that combat the effects of inflammation and protect the body’s cells from damage. There’s even evidence to suggest that the antioxidants in white tea may reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as colon and stomach cancers.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, which comes from the bark and leaves of the Hamamelis virginiana plant, has long been used as a natural remedy for various skin ailments. As an anti-inflammatory, witch hazel is particularly effective in soothing irritated and inflamed skin, and its astringent properties make it an excellent treatment for acne.
Some of the reported benefits of witch hazel include:
- Reducing inflammation
- Combating acne
- Alleviating itching
- Minimizing skin irritation
- Soothing hemorrhoids
- Treating insect bites
Due to its high tannin content, witch hazel also offers antioxidant protection, helping to neutralize damage-causing free radicals. Additionally, the topical application of witch hazel can bolster the skin’s elasticity, potentially minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin.
Rose
Roses have been revered for their beauty and fragrance for centuries, but their petals and fruit (rose hips) also provide significant health and skincare benefits. Here are a few of the ways rose can contribute to overall wellness:
- Soothing skin irritations
- Calming inflammation
- Reducing redness
- Hydrating the skin
- Promoting skin cell regeneration
Rose petals are high in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that defend cells from damage and inflammation. Studies have shown that these polyphenols can help prevent certain cancers, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and more. Furthermore, rose extracts have been found to contain antimicrobial properties that can help in the fight against acne and other skin blemishes.
Incorporating Ancient Remedies into Your Routine
So, how can you harness the power of these three plant extracts and potentially experience their inflammation-fighting and youth-preserving properties? Here are some ways to incorporate white tea, witch hazel, and rose into your daily routine:
White Tea:
- Drink it: Brew a cup of white tea to enjoy throughout the day.
- Apply it topically: Look for skincare products containing white tea extract, or create a DIY facial mist by simply steeping white tea and spritzing it on your face.
Witch Hazel:
- Use it as a toner: Witch hazel is a popular ingredient in natural toners or can be applied directly to clean skin to help control oil and tighten pores.
- Soothe irritated skin: Dilute witch hazel with water and apply it to insect bites, rashes, or sunburns for fast relief from itching and inflammation.
Rose:
- Seek out rose-infused skincare: Keep an eye out for moisturizers, serums, or facial mists that list rose extract, rose water, or rosehip oil as an ingredient.
- Enjoy a relaxing rose bath: Sprinkle fresh rose petals into a warm bath for a soothing and fragrant soak, or add dried rose petals to a muslin bag for the same effect.
By embracing these age-old natural remedies, you can potentially counteract inflammation, rejuvenate your skin, and promote overall health and well-being.
