TOP 10 HERBS THAT NATURALLY BOOST COLLAGEN

October 28, 2026

TOP 10 HERBS THAT NATURALLY BOOST COLLAGEN

What about collagen?

The 28 different known types of collagen (English link) are found almost everywhere in our body, it is in our tendons, skin, bones, blood vessels and even in our organs such as your kidneys and your heart. Collagen holds our tissues together. About 30 percent of our body's protein comes from collagen. As we age, on average from age 25 onwards, we begin to lose this essential protein that is responsible for so much of the structural support that our skeleton, skin, joints and bones need.

Why do people have collagen loss or deficiency?

The entire body is affected by collagen production, so it is known as the "scaffolding" that holds things in place. In its absence, health problems such as muscle weakness or hypermobility in the joints, osteoporosis (bone loss), tooth decay, abnormal bleeding and bruising and wrinkled, sagging or dull skin can develop.

According to scientific studies, we start producing less collagen at the age of 25. However, this is all variable and depends on our individual lifestyles. Maintaining a diet naturally rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, clean proteins and mineralizing products will naturally lead to normal aging. This type of diet provides the essential building blocks to stay healthy, inside and out. Another deciding factor for collagen abundance or deficiency is stress. One of the major components of oxidative and cellular damage is exposure to emotional, mental and biological stressors, which directly contribute to aging.

There are also some lifestyle choices you can control (such as quitting smoking, proper eating habits, and reducing/quitting alcohol consumption). What we can't control are genetic conditions and environmental factors (sun exposure, pollution, etc.) all of which can speed up the process of collagen loss. This occurs naturally in everyone as we spend more years on this planet, regardless of our lifestyle, genetics or environment. Because the body needs vitamin C to produce collagen, a vitamin C deficiency (although rare these days) can also make collagen loss and deficiency more severe. Other factors that can contribute to a collagen deficiency include exposure to heavy metals, toxic chemicals, chronic diseases, hormonal imbalances, excessive drug use, not enough sleep or exercise and/or a stressful life.

Should I consider adding supplemental collagen to my diet and skin maintenance?

The body produces collagen using amino acids in protein-rich foods and then uses vitamin C, zinc and copper to produce the collagen it needs for elasticity, tissue connectivity, healing and strength. Common protein-rich foods include meat, legumes, fish and chicken. If you don't consume it regularly, you may want to add collagen to your diet. Pregnant women often lack many critical vitamins and minerals, as confirmed by this 2019 Purdue University study . These vitamins and minerals are also found in some collagen supplements: vitamins D, C, A, B6, K and E, in addition to folic acid, choline, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and zinc. Whether it is strengthening the baby's or mother's immune system, or maintaining strong bones and tissues, collagen is one of the essential nutrients (English link) in a successful and healthy pregnancy.

If you are considering becoming pregnant or are currently pregnant, talk to your midwife or doctor about the benefits of supplemental collagen to see if it is right for you. If you are not currently pregnant or have "baby fever," consult a trusted herbalist or other plant medicine expert to explore how boosting collagen can improve your overall health.

We need look no further than nature's medicine cabinet for plant-based solutions for herbs and rituals to stimulate collagen production.

A fascinating element that many collagen-supporting herbs have in common is their energetic and chemical properties. Bone-strengthening herbs are naturally rich in silica, calcium and minerals, which helps with the strength of your bones and healing, for example, bone fractures. Some of these herbs are bonding and contain a kind of "holy glue", an essential binder (with soothing quality) within the plant that, once metabolized, becomes an incredibly powerful food for our bones, connective tissue, skin and more. Just like the “glue” that animal collagen is known for, some herbs containing this mucilage also greatly aid our digestion. Herbs that can support recovery and rejuvenation are: Marshmallow, Horseradish, Cornsilk, Comfrey, Chlorella, Spirulina and Slippery Elm.

Not many herbs contain the two opposite natures - astringent and demulcent (soothing), therefore these herbs must be studied closely to learn the incredible health benefits. Several of these herbs have been widely explored by science, studying ancient folkloric uses among cultures around the world.

Classic herbs rich in silica, calcium and phosphorus have been used since ancient times for muscle and joint health, bone strengthening and wound healing. In addition, herbs that contain significant amounts of demulcent and mucilage are usually also excellent sources of skin and tissue bonding power. Herbs high in vitamin C help the body absorb collagen and ensure that collagen receptors function best.

Below are 10 of the most powerful collagen boosters per category:

VITAMIN C-RICH HERBS

1. Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana)

The “Queen of Fruits” is touted not only as one of the highest natural sources of vitamin C (vital for collagen production), but also for its abundance of antioxidants. Mangosteen is also an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral powerhouse. Collagen keeps our skin firm and resilient and protects it against wrinkles. The role of vitamin C in collagen production is to interact (act) with amino acids in collagen cells. It adds hydrogen and oxygen to those amino acids so they can do their job in producing collagen. Mangosteen peel has been touted because not only is it one of nature's highest sources of vitamin C, but it also contains a huge amount of antioxidants. Mangosteens also contain a large amount of polyphenols known as xanthones, which are known for their numerous healing powers. According to scientific studies, xanthones from the pericarp* whole fruit, heartwood and leaf of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) are known to possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties (including antioxidant, antitumor, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities ). It also contains promising chemo-preventive and anti-cancer properties (English link). As far as beauty chemistry goes, its high amount of antioxidants has proven to be an excellent skin tonic. Several studies have shown that the pericarp* was particularly successful in curbing the production of acne-causing inflammation, along with other skin problems (such as cirrhosis, eczema and inflammation-based rashes). In addition to using xanthones to defend the skin, the fruit also promotes microcirculation and improves the appearance of the skin's vitality and radiance. Another study showed that mangosteen pericarp extract, due to its phenolic rich makeup, was able to protect the skin against free radicals [ R ](English link), with great potential as a anti-skin cancer agent (English link).

* Pericarp consists of three layers, the exocarp (the peel), the mesocarp (flesh) and the endocarp (the hard kernel, which contains the seed)

2. Moringa ( Moringa oleifera )

This leaf is a natural energy booster. It is good for digestion, but is also soothing, helps lower blood pressure and promotes a good night's sleep. Moringa is not only rich in vitamin C, it contains in addition to a high protein content, an abundance of vitamins A and B, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. Besides protecting your collagen, it also helps produce collagen in the body.

3. Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris)

Fresh thyme has three times more vitamin C than oranges and one of the highest concentrations of vitamin C of any culinary herb! Thyme has been reported to improve bone health with its high vitamin K, iron, calcium and manganese content, lowering the risk of bone disorders such as osteoporosis.

4. Berries (Various types).

According to a study from 2008 (English link), blackberries, blueberries and raspberries have the highest antioxidant properties among the commonly consumed fruits. Also a source of a lot of vitamin C, a 100-gram portion of blackberries, for example, provides 35 percent of the reference daily intake (RDI). Best of all, you can often find them in your own backyard or close to home.

HERBS FOR HEALTHY SKIN

5. Camu Camu (Myrciaria Dubia)

With 60x more vitamin C per serving than an orange, camu camu also fights pigmentation in your skin. The flavonoids help protect you from UV rays that cause wrinkles and reddish skin tones. Camu camu is a natural pollution and pollen shield and is an excellent herb for dry, itchy skin.

6. Calendula (Calendula Officinalis)

Long used for its skin-healing properties, wound healing and to activate your collagen receptors, modern research has proven many of these benefits and more. Calendula's ability to protect your skin against cellular and oxidative damage has also been proven.

7. Hibiscus (Hibiscus Rosa Cinensis)

Is a staple food among indigenous peoples in the rainforest. Also known as an anti-aging toner (see more anti-aging herbs below), it also contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), natural exfoliants that work against oily skin and/or clogged pores, providing a firmer, smoother skin.

HERBS FOR ANTI-AGING

8. He Shou Wu (Fallopia Multiflora)

Revered as a spiritual herb and beneficial in the treatment of cancer, diabetes, hair loss, hardening of the arteries and neurodegenerative diseases, this "Chinese climbing knot" may also help stimulate collagen. Its additional properties include: maintaining your hair color, boosting energy, rejuvenating nerves and brain cells, strengthening your bones and purifying your blood.

9. Gynostemma (Gynostemma Pentaphyllum)

Known as the “immortality herb,” this plant is often used for stimulating effects, in addition to improved digestion, cardiovascular health and hormone balance. A natural antioxidant. A rich source of healthy vitamins and minerals, Gynostemma was originally brought to scientific attention because population studies showed that those who consumed it regularly lived longer and significantly healthier lives. In fact, a clinical study showed that taking gynostemma daily for a two-month period reduced many signs of aging!

10. Nettle (Urtica Dioica)

Nettles contain high amounts of calcium, silica and sulfur, which can help stimulate collagen receptors. Commonly found in beauty products such as shampoo and soap, nettle is restorative and best known for its antiseptic properties. For centuries, it has been used for hair care, preventing hair loss, promoting healthy, shiny hair and even nourishing the scalp. Rich in vitamins A, B1, B5, C, D and E, its astringent properties help tighten the skin, potentially prevent eczema, protect our collagen receptors and much more.

11. Horsetail (Equisetum Arvense)

Horsetail is one of the oldest plants in the world. The hollow stems and shoots of the Horsetail are a rich source of naturally occurring calcium, magnesium, potassium and silica crystals. Many of Horsetail's medicinal properties can be attributed to its high silica content. Silica is an essential trace mineral that plays an important role in the development, strengthening and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Silica also repairs weak connective tissues in blood vessels, cartilage, tendons and in collagen, the body glue that helps hold our skin and muscle tissues together.

FOUR RITUALS TO IMPROVE COLLAGEN AND MORE

As with countless herbs, foods and plant medicines, these are rarely consumed in a vacuum. More often than not, rituals involve the ingestion or use of herbs.

Here are some rituals from an international line of healers to ensure our collagen-rich bodies thrive, our skin stays radiant and we age gracefully with good health:

1. Gua Sha (Origin China)

A traditional natural Chinese skin therapy that uses instruments (ox horn, jade, cupping, etc.) to treat the relevant areas of your skin to unblock the meridians, stimulate the blood and remove blood stasis. Modern versions of Gua Sha are usually made from gemstones, but many types of tools have been created over time that provide the same powerful benefits. Rose quartz or amethyst versions help stimulate collagen, manage tense muscles and promote lymphatic drainage.

2. Maya Abdominal Massage (Origin Guatemala, Belize and Mexico)

The curanderas of Central America, such as midwives and body workers, have used this technique for centuries for a variety of benefits, especially for reproductive health of women. (reproductive health is the complete social, mental and physical well-being with regard to the functions and processes of the reproductive system). Stress and inflammation cause numerous imbalances and can lead to serious health consequences; Collagen production is no exception. This particular style of massage can be beneficial for all genders, for proper menstruation, for women who want to become pregnant. Collagen is an excellent ally for many other healthy processes in the body. Rosita Arvigo is an amazing pioneer who has extensively studied and taught the magic of Maya Abdominal Massage, find her work here . Rosita Arvigo | Home (English link).

3. Facial Steaming (Worldwide Origin)

Vogue Scandinavia says the all-natural collagen-boosting properties of facial steams "keep the mattress of your skin plump and juicy" by dilating blood vessels, which increases circulation. The oxygen-rich blood can then be the channel for nutrition to easily reach the tissues. Over time, experts say, collagen production increases, but even before that, your skin will radiate a healthy glow.

4. Tea baths (Origin Egypt)

Rumored to have bathed in rose petals, Cleopatra may have started (or simply popularized) the tea bath trend, among many other beauty marks she left on history. Herbs were used in the bathhouses of Rome for physical, mental and emotional ailments. The ritual of bathing and immersing yourself in special springs for healing purposes has been practiced for thousands of years. Many ancient civilizations valued water with great reverence and considered it a gift from the divine. Indians, Greeks and Egyptians thought that water was the source of the world (Archè) and of man. In the origins of the Bible, water is described as the origin of the cosmos. Egyptians and Israelites immersed themselves in the holy waters of the Nile and Jordan, Hindus in the Ganges to heal their souls and bodies. And more than 300 different plant uses have been documented among the Saramaccan and Aucanian Maroons in Suriname alone (English Link).

Boosting collagen with herbs and rituals is an act of self-love. Therefore, these practices go hand in hand with plant medicines and herbal supplements; It's all connected (mind-body-spirit).