It comes as no surprise that leafy greens are good for your health, which, in turn, will reflect well onto the quality of your complexion.
However, research into the latest and greatest ingredients to incorporate into skin care products might just be about to change, with one leafy green catching academics' eyes.
So far, researchers have uncovered remarkable skin care properties in watercress, positioning the humble green as a potential breakthrough ingredient for the beauty industry.
The nutrient-dense plant, long celebrated for its culinary uses, contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that could transform how we approach skin health.
The nutrient-dense plant, long celebrated for its culinary uses, contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds
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Scientists have discovered that watercress acts as what they term a "botanical bodyguard", offering protection against irritation while promoting skin balance.
The findings emerge from extensive research into the plant's unique chemical composition, which includes natural compounds capable of soothing troubled skin and preventing inflammatory responses.
Dr Kyle Stewart and Professor Paul Winyard have dedicated over a decade to investigating watercress's therapeutic potential. Their research at the University of Exeter has revealed that the plant contains potent natural urease inhibitors, compounds that actively combat skin inflammation.
These inhibitors enable watercress to function as a protective agent, "soothing skin, preventing irritation, and restoring balance", according to the researchers. The discovery marks the next step towards understanding how botanical compounds can address skin concerns.
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The team's findings suggest that watercress extracts could offer a natural alternative to synthetic skin care ingredients, harnessing the plant's inherent anti-inflammatory properties.
Managing director of The Watercress Company Tom Amery expressed enthusiasm about the research, commenting: "Watercress is an incredible product, and one of the most nutritionally-dense foods available. We're really excited that the watercress that we can't use is now being put to such fantastic use, and we can't wait to see how this research develops."
The research team is investigating whether specialised watercress extracts could treat various skin conditions, including nappy rash, dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.
"It's still early days, but we've discovered so much in a decade, and we're really excited about the potential for beneficial effects of watercress extracts on the skin," Professor Winyard added.
Scientists have discovered that watercress acts as what they term a 'botanical bodyguard'
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The research team is developing synthetic versions of the effective molecular combinations found in watercress, with hopes of progressing towards a licensing route.
"One day, we hope we could be developing new treatments derived from our bespoke formula of watercress components," Professor Winyard explained.
Beyond skincare applications, watercress can also offer broader health benefits. Dentist and academic Dr Alan McCaffrey highlighted the plant's rich antioxidant content, including lutein and beta-carotene, as well as glucosinolates that may help reduce oxidative stress throughout the body.
"This broader anti-inflammatory effect can support gum tissue resilience and wound healing," Dr McCaffrey added.
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