All about Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract is an herb sourced from the tiny seeds of red grapes, and is a flavonoid with extremely potent antioxidant properties, 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E and 20 times more than Vitamin C! Antioxidants help scavenge free radicals, which are highly reactive substances that attack and may damage the DNA of healthy cells, resulting in premature aging and disease. In fact, grape seed extract is one of the few antioxidants that can cross the blood-brain barrier, and, hence, also protect brain cells from free radical damage.
Besides its antioxidant properities, it has significantly positive effects on blood vessel (vascular) disorders. Because of this, it may help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. In addition, it has the ability to decrease capillary fragility, of which a symptom is easy bruising; diabetics and those with varicose veins may also find it beneficial. Allergy sufferers may be pleased to learn that grape seed extract inhibits the release of histamine, and harbors anti-inflammatory properties. For those more cosmetically minded, it can protect the integrity of one’s skin by strengthening the collagen. Collagen breakdown in the skin is what leads to such things as wrinkles and sagging of the exterior. Lastly, and perhaps most impressively, many experts now believe grape seed extract has cancer-fighting constituents.
Although no toxic reactions have been observed, nor any major side effects, its powerful influence on blood vessels may cause excessive bleeding in those who concurrently take other blood thinners (ex. Aspirin).
The evidence for grape seed extract’s efficacy is strongest as a treatment for blood vessel disorders. In fact, its active constituents are central ingredients for one of the most prescribed vascular drugs in Europe. Also, its role as an antioxidant par excellence is indisputable. Unlike many other supplements, moreover, it seems to induce few adverse side effects. Overall, it is definitely a supplement worth checking out.
1. Choose a supplement that is standardized to contain “92%” to “95%” proanthocyanidins. Proanthocynanidins are the active substances in the extract that confer its myriad benefits. The “92%” and “95%” refer specifically to the percentage of Proanthocynanidins the supplement contains. The higher the percentage, the higher the benefits. 2. Proanthocynanidines can also be extracted from pine bark, but these vary in potency from 80% to 85%. Moreover, it is the grape seed extract’s proanthocynanides, not pine bark extract’s, which have been extensively clinically tested over the years.
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