Skin secrets of elderberry

 

Moisturisers and cosmetic surgery may now be left in the past as a compound in elderberries could potentially give a natural boost to the skin.

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University of East Anglia (UEA) researchers, in conjunction with the Institute of Food Research, will further explore the benefits of the compound that also gives the berries their vibrant colour, known as anthocyanin.

In a 12-week trial starting in September, post-menopausal women will consume either extracts from elderberries or placebo capsules, and will have their skin’s structure and appearance measured with state-of-the-art equipment used by experts in skin science.

At the same time, researchers will also test whether the elderberry extract can reduce risk factors for heart disease.

Skin benefits of a healthy diet

Dr Peter Curtis from UEA, one of the leaders of the project, said: "We already know that a healthy diet can help protect against heart disease and skin damage, and that a mixture of similar food components have been shown to improve the skin’s structure.

"There is also evidence that the active components have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be important in helping people stay healthy.

"If the results of our study are positive, it may lead to innovations in skin health products and may also give us vital information about diets which promote healthier hearts," Dr Curtis added.

The study will be carried out by a team of researchers led by Professor Aedin Cassidy at the University of East Anglia and Dr Paul Kroon at the Institute of Food Research.

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