Anti-Aging Properties of Mushroom Extracts
Asked by: tueyuu
On: June 08, 2013
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
What are the anti-aging properties of mushroom extracts from species like Lentinus edodes, Grifola frontdosa, and Ganoderma lucidum, and how do they work based on studies involving topical application? Specifically, what are their:
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects?
- Ability to stimulate epidermal cell growth?
- Inhibition of inflammatory cytokines?
- Inhibition of enzymes like
MMPsandAP-1which break down elastin and collagen?
Answer
Mushroom Extract as an Anti-Aging Ingredient
Mushroom extracts from various species, such as Lentinus edodes (shitake), Grifola frontdosa (maitake), and Ganoderma lucidum (reishi, mannentake, and lingzhi), contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
These extracts can help address signs of aging through several mechanisms:
- Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: They contain compounds that fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Stimulating Epidermal Growth: They can stimulate the growth of epidermal cells.
- Inhibiting Inflammatory Cytokines: They inhibit substances that promote inflammation.
- Inhibiting Enzyme Breakdown: They inhibit enzymes like MMPs and AP-1, which break down elastin and collagen.
Studies, such as one involving topical application, have shown that mushroom extracts can significantly improve the overall appearance of sun-damaged and aging skin.