Various Benefits of Grapeseed

Grapes, the main source of grapeseed supplement, are known to contain some healing properties since ancient times.  Grape fruit has been used for medicinal purposes in age-old Greece and in Egypt 6,000 years ago.  Ancient Greek philosophers recounted in their writings the ability of grapes to cure various maladies.

The grapeseed supplement is extracted from grape seeds and marketed in the form of tablets or capsules.  The grape seed extract contains huge concentration of the substance called oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPC) which is a potent antioxidant.  The supplement also contains polyphenols, another rich antioxidant source.

The OPC helps protect the cells from free radicals and promote better blood circulation.  This antioxidant is effective in curbing cell damage brought about by free radicals.  But the wondrous effects of OPCs do not end there. More and more clinical studies have been conducted through the years to determine the health benefits derive from this antioxidant.

The studies on the health benefits of grape seed extracts first came about as a result of the studies on puzzling “French paradox.”  The French are known to ingest foods that could induce heart ailment. But in a strange twist, despite the presence of these unhealthy foods in their diet, the French had the lowest incidence of heart disease.

Scientist attributed this phenomenon to the French people’s love of red wine, a by-product of grapes.   Researches have shown that the OPC in red wine had shielded the French from cardiovascular ailments and help promote the health of their hearts.  Consequently, scientists discovered that grapeseed supplement made from the extract of the seeds has the highest levels of OPCs.

Grape seed extract is considered the most powerful antioxidant available.  It is 20 times more powerful than Vitamin C and 50 times more potent that Vitamin E.  This antioxidant can pass through the blood brain barrier to promote the health of tissues in nerves and brain.  It prevents the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, aiding in the smooth flow of blood from the heart.  It is known to enhance memory and wards off the debilitating effects of senility.

Clinical indications show that the grape seed extract primarily helps in treating various vascular diseases, retinal insufficiencies, cognitive decline and in preventing cancer and healing wounds.

Dosage and Interactions

Grapeseed supplement normally comes in 50 to 100 mg capsules.  There is no established recommended daily dosage intake for the supplement.  However, Debasis Bagchi, leading researcher of grape seed extracts,  recommends a daily dose of 50 mg for 30 to 40 year olds and 100 mg for 40 year old and above.

A study conducted for 12 months on rodents injected with 100 mg of grape seed extracts daily reveal that the supplement can be taken safely for that span of time.  In other clinical trials, oral intake of the supplement shows no adverse side effects after 8 weeks of use.

Grapeseed supplement has little side effects.  People taking blood thinners are advised to proceed with caution since the extract can cause excessive bleeding.  Individuals who have allergies to grapes should not take the supplements also.  The extact may hinder the effects of cholesterol lowering medications.  It will be a good idea to consult a health professional before taking the supplement.