Grape Seed Extract, as its name implies, is derived from whole grape seeds containing high concentrations of compounds beneficial to health. Grape seeds are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, vitamin E, and flavonoids (also known as bioflavonoids). Flavonoids or bioflavonoids are plant chemicals recognized for their highly potent antioxidant abilities. Pure grape seed extract is particularly rich in a very powerful flavonoid called Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs).
OPCs are known as super antioxidants, they are up to 50 times more powerful than beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. OPCs produce longer lasting antioxidant protection. Beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E are excreted within a shorter period of time after ingestion. Whereas, Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract can last for 3 full days to deliver its free-radical scavenging powers.
Grape Seed Extract Benefits
- Grape seed extract can relieve the symptoms of degenerative diseases, which are related to free radical damage. Degenerative diseases include Alzheimer’s disease, atherosclerosis, cataracts, macular degeneration, and many forms of cancer.
- Grape seed can help improve cardiovascular health by ensuring healthy blood circulation. It prevents lipid oxidation which can lead to plaque build-up in the blood vessels that obstructs blood flow. Thus, grape seed extract benefits patients with hypertension, chronic venous insufficiency, high cholesterol levels in the blood, and varicose veins.
- Grape seed extract can help in maintain a younger looking skin. OPCs encourage healthy blood supply to the skin to prevent the breakdown of collagen. It also binds with collagen to promote skin elasticity and healthy skin tone. Grape seed extract additionally protects the body from UV damage from the sun that causes the skin signs of aging.
- Grape seed extract strengthens the immune system in fighting infections. The bioflavonoids in grape seed are known as “immune response modifiers” because they improve the body’s natural ability to fight bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergens.
- Grape seed extract benefits healthy brain and nerve tissue functions. OPCs are one of the few antioxidants that can cross the blood brain barrier, delivering direct antioxidant protection to the brain and nerve tissues.
- Grape seed extract supplements can be used as a natural remedy against inflammation. Like most antioxidants, OPCs possess effective anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used in the treatment of sun burn, arthritis, and other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Grape Seed Extract Side Effects
When used within its recommended dosage of 50mg to 200mg per day, grape seed extract is generally safe for use. Minor grape seed side effects include dizziness, headache, itchy scalp, and nausea. People who are known to be allergic to grapes, hypertensive, and are suffering from bleeding disorders, must consult a doctor before taking any grape seed extract supplement.
Drug Interactions
Patients who are regularly taking NSAIDs, cancer medications, cholesterol lowering drugs, blood thinners, and heart medication must consult a doctor prior to using a grape seed extract supplement. It may interfere with the actions of these medications or may produce harmful side effects when taken together.
