From bank-breaking 'miracle' creams to painful invasive procedures, the modern obsession with anti-ageing continues to drive people to extreme lengths in the pursuit of eternal youth.

But for those of us who prefer a natural approach to ageing well, the answer could be in our own back garden. Many herbs and plants contain active ingredients that can protect the body from age-related conditions, from sagging skin and joint and muscle weakness to high-cholesterol and even Alzheimer's.

Here are 10 of the best herbs for combatting the signs of ageing.

• Anti-Ageing Herbs That Protect Against Premature Ageing

• Milk Thistle

  Milk thistle encourages the liver to make a powerful antioxidant, which aids the regeneration of new skin cells and helps to create a glowing, youthful complexion.

• Ginseng

  Ginseng is a perennial herb and its root is used to help beat age-related problems such as high blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It also helps alleviate stress, stimulates physical and mental activity, which may slack in older age, and protects the body from severe, physical pain.

• Rhodiola Rosea

  The Rhodiola Rosea is an 'adaptogen' herb which has long been used to enhance the body's ability to cope with mental stress. It is also believed that the herb could help protect the brain from age-related mental disorders such as Alzheimer's and enhance body stamina and strength.

• Rosemary

  Rosemary helps to redress the skin's moisture balance, perfect for fending off sagging and wrinkles. It also helps protect the skin cells from environmental damage by aiding the development of collagen in the skin, leaving it plumper and more supple.

• Ashwagandha

  Ashwagandha is thought to help with the prevention of dementia by restoring the neurotransmitters in the brain. Ashwagandha also helps the body build a resistance to stressand can be used as stimulant for a healthy immune system.

• Ginkgo Biloba

  Gingko Biloba contains crucial antioxidants that help to improve blood flow to the brain which help the body's peripheries function - ideal for those with poor circulation in the fingers and toes.

• Cat's Claw

  Also known as Uña de Gato in Spanish and Vilcacora in Indian, the Cat's Claw herb's super-immune-system qualities help battle age-related problems such as high blood pressure, bad circulation and high cholesterol levels.

• Grape Seeds

  The seeds from the grape contain powerful antioxidants called procyanidins that neutralise damaging free radical in the joints.

• Pine Bark

  Pine bark, also known as Pycnogenol, strengthens capillaries, arteries and veins and fights inflammation to improve joint flexibility. It also helps the body to circulate more blood during stressful conditions without increasing blood pressure or making the heart work harder.

• Reishi

  Known as the 'mushroom of immortality' this colourful fungi has been a folk medicine in China for thousands of years. It is traditionally used to treat age-related conditions like hypertension, arthritis, insomnia and lung disorders. It is also a great anti-inflammatory agent and can be taken in the form of tea or tablets.