The cocklebur plant is a weed native to Southern Europe, Central Asia, and China, although it can also be found in places such as the US. It has been used in traditional medicines for conditions including headaches, stuffy nose, skin pigmentation problems, tuberculosis-related diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis for centuries. In recent years, scientists have also been investigating its potential to treat cancer.In the present study, researchers set out to examine its potential as a skin-protectant and wound-healing agent. To do so, they first studied the molecular properties of its fruit extracts, and isolated certain compounds that contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.