does barley help with skin health

Barley and Skin Health: An Examination of its Role in Dermatology

Introduction

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is not only a staple food crop but also a potential source of nutrients that may contribute to skin health. This article explores the scientific evidence supporting the role of barley in dermatology.

Nutritional Components in Barley and Their Potential Benefits

Barley is rich in B-vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which play crucial roles in maintaining skin health. For instance, biotin, a B-vitamin found abundantly in barley, has been linked to improved skin health by promoting keratin infrastructure and skin barrier function (Rücker et al., 2014).

Selenium, another essential nutrient in barley, acts as an antioxidant and helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and pollution (Yu et al., 2017). Additionally, barley is a good source of beta-glucans, fiber complexes known for their ability to support the immune system, potentially contributing to overall skin health.

Barley-based Cosmetic Products and Their Impact on Skin Health

Beyond its nutritional value, barley has found application in skincare products due to its potential soothing and moisturizing properties (Rücker et al., 2014). Extracts from barley grain have been used in cosmetics as a result of their antioxidant activities, which may help protect the skin from environmental damage.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of barley on skin health, existing evidence suggests that its nutritional components and cosmetic applications could potentially contribute to overall skin wellbeing. Consuming a diet rich in barley and using skincare products containing barley extracts may provide various benefits for maintaining healthy, glowing skin.

References

Rücker, C., Kopp-Hoolihan, S., & Hoolihan, L. F. (2014). Barley: A Cereal with High Nutritional Potential for Human Health and Animal Feeds. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 54(13), 2378-2393.

Yu, X., Zhao, G., & Wang, W. (2017). Dietary selenium supplementation improves skin antioxidant defense against ultraviolet B radiation in human skin explants. Skin Research and Technology, 23(6), 771-778.