What is Grape seed Extract?
Grape seed extracts are industrial
derivatives from whole grape seeds that have a great concentration of vitamin
E, flavonoids, linoleic acid and phenolic procyanidins (also known as OPC or
oligomeric procyanidins). Grape seed extract can be applied topically or taken
internally, and is the best known source of antioxidants available.
Chemical constituents of Grape seed extract
The main ingredients are procyanidins and OPC
Grape seed extract is a heterogeneous mixture of gallic acid, monomers, dimers, trimers, tetramers, polymers and other oligomers. The basic building blocks are molecules of catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallic acid esters, glycosides and peptides. Due to the high degree of heterogeneity, several analytical techniques are required to characterize grape seed extract.
Benefits of taking Grape seed extract supplements:
1. Flavonoids found in grape seed extract are shown to
lower bad LDL cholesterol, increasing heart and circulatory system health.
2. Resveratrol, a compound found in grapes, is a known
antioxidant and is currently being studied for its apparent positive link to
the treatment of a number of diseases. Resveratrol weight loss supplements are
already on the market.
3. OTCs found in grape seed extract relieve blood pools
in the legs, called venous insufficiency that causes pain, visible veins,
swelling and fatigue.
4. Grape seed extract benefits surgery or
injury-related swelling, called edema.
5. A combination of grape seed extract and
chromium is used to lower cholesterol levels.
6. A resveratrol breast cancer remedy is currently being
studied for its efficacy in softening breast cancer tumors after radiation and
preventing tumor growth altogether.
7. Antioxidants found in grape seed extract work to
repair and strengthen blood vessels, in turn lowering blood pressure.
8. Using grape seed extract for allergies relieves many
of the common symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing and itchy, watery eyes.
9. Grape seed extract may strengthen your
skin’s collagen, revealing healthier looking skin.
10. Grape seed extract protects tiny blood vessels, which helps protect vision loss caused by diabetes.
Side effects and safety of Grape seed extract
Grape seed extract is generally considered safe. Side effects may include headache, itchy scalp, dizziness, and nausea.