Moldavian Dragonhead Extract Boosts Skin Health in Aging Adults

Recent research funded by Mibelle Biochemistry suggests that DracoBelle Nu sd, a Moldavian dragonhead extract, may significantly enhance collagen production, skin hydration, and thickness. Conducted by researchers at the Switzerland-based company, the study examined its effects on aging markers in women aged 35 to 65, highlighting potential benefits for older individuals experiencing increased skin vulnerability.

DracoBelle Nu sd is an enhanced formulation of DracoBelle Nu, enabling users to achieve results with a reduced daily dosage of 100 mg. As skin ages, it becomes thinner and more susceptible to damage due to collagen breakdown, influenced by internal factors like hormones and stress, and external factors such as pollution and UV exposure. Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin firmness, elasticity, and hydration. However, its levels decline with age, particularly after menopause, leading to visible aging signs. Although collagen supplements can improve skin appearance, many consumers prefer vegan alternatives that aid natural collagen production.

Moldavian dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) contains bioactive compounds that offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-repairing properties, with some studies indicating they enhance collagen production and support longevity. Previous research demonstrated its ability to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and density. A recent trial aimed to explore further its collagen-boosting effects through a refined lower-dose formulation.

The study involved 103 healthy Caucasian women with visible wrinkles, in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled setup. Participants took either 100 mg of MDH Nu sd or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Researchers assessed skin hydration using a Corneometer and mapped hydration changes at four, eight, and 12 weeks, alongside ultrasound imaging to evaluate skin density.

Findings indicated substantial increases in skin hydration—16.4% at four weeks, 53.6% at eight weeks, and 71.1% at 12 weeks—compared to the baseline. The MDH Nu sd group exhibited significantly better hydration than the placebo group. Additionally, after 12 weeks, overall skin thickness rose notably due to an 8.7% increase in dermal thickness, although epidermal thickness remained unchanged, underscoring collagen's role.

Furthermore, MDH Nu sd stimulated the expression of three collagen-related genes and proteins essential for maintaining the extracellular matrix and collagen fibril assembly. The researchers noted that these rejuvenating effects of Moldavian dragonhead extract, including increased moisture and dermal thickness, could have considerable implications in dermatology and cosmetic sciences.

They advocate for further studies to validate flavonoid-glucuronide activity on skin health and its potential as a natural, non-invasive alternative to cosmetic procedures, while also investigating the effects of highly pure flavonoid-glucuronides derived from Moldavian dragonhead.