Collagen is the main structural protein found in the connective tissues. Connective Tissues may be Loose Connective tissues like the Adipose tissues. Collagen makes the skin look smooth and full. They maybe Dense Connective Tissues like the Tendons and Ligaments. Or, they could be Support Tissues like the Cartilages and the Bones. Last but not the least, they may be Blood and Blood Forming tissues like the Red marrow.
Cologan is important for skin and joint health. Collagen occurs and synthesizes with Elastin naturally in the body. It helps in maintaining the elasticity of the tissues. Production of Collagen depends on the level of amino acids present in the body. As we grow older, the production of collagen slows down. It causes wrinkles and loose skin. Low levels of collagen may also lead to Osteoporosis. Collagen and Keratin work together to give the skin its strength, smoothness, elasticity and resilience.
Unfortunately, Collagen is not present as such, in any food or herb. Therefore, no food or herb can be prescribed which contains the substance as such. However, some foods and herbs do possess the power to stimulate the body to increase the production of Collagen.
Collagen is available as a supplement.
A word of caution. It is well neigh impossible to ingest synthetic ( Chemical ) Collagen into the body via the transdermal route. The writing on the wall is clear. Local applications will not help. Topical creams as wrinkle fighting agents are a No go !! Since Collagen cannot be absorbed through the skin, cosmetic creams will not reduce the crow's feet around the eyes.
Back to the production of Collagen in the body. Collagen can be produced by the body alone. Let us help the body learn how to produce more Collagen. Let us motivate our body. Let us tickle it into action.
Herbs Most Effective in aiding the body to produce Collagen.
Indian Pennywort
Helichrysum Italicum ( Curry Plant ) essential oil. Probably the only local application that is effective. Use a few drops in a carrier oil. Then use no other cosmetics.
Foods and herbs that stimulate the body to produce its own Collagen are:
Indian Pennywort
Eucommia
Horsetail
Soy
Oranges
Cashew
Blackberries
Black Currants
Blueberries
Plums
Elderberries
Plums
Milk
Black Currant
Tomatoes
Curd
Broccoli
Brazil Nuts
Kiwi
Avacado
Potatoes
Carrot
Nuts like Almonds, Pine nuts and Pistachios

Soy Products contain Genistein. Genistein helps in the production of collagen.

Vitamin C : Vitamin C stimulates the production of Collagen. Your daily diet should include Vitamin C containing fruits and vegetables.

Causes of Declining Production of Collagen
Collagen production decreases with age. That's natural. But, if the decline is premature, then there has to be a cause. Two major causes of premature decrease in the production of Collagen are:
Environmental; Excessive exposure to the sun may be one.
Connective tissue diseases; Rheumatic fever, Rheumatoid arthritis and Lupus.

Benefits of Collagen :
Helps in Wound healing
Anti Aging
Reduces Wrinkles
Useful in regeneration of tissues
Used in Plastic surgery
Joints, Ligaments and Tendons remain functional.
Keeps tissues, skin and cells hydrated
Good, healthy sleep
Natural Anti Inflammatory
Optimizes Thyroid function
Great help to the Metabolism
Fortifies the Immune System

Effects of collagen deficiency in the body
Weakening of cell structures
Thinner transparent skin
Lifeless hair
Saggy and wrinkled skin
Painful Joints
Damaged Tendons, Cartilages and Ligaments
Premature Weak Eyes
Crumbling Teeth
Easy scarring of the skin

Note ! Note ! Note !

Herbs given in the Repertory section, below, can only aid the body to produce its own Collagen. They do not contain any Collagen. Don't go by the heading. Its software generated.