Grape seed extract is exactly what the name states. The extract is taken from the tiny seeds and sometimes the skins of red grapes, which are the same kind used to make wine.
Why is grape seed extract good for you? This extract is incredibly popular in Europe due to its high level of flavonoids (any of a group of antioxidant chemical compounds widely found in certain fruits, vegetables, teas, wines, nuts, seeds, and roots, often as a pigment) and hytochemicals that possess antioxidant properties.
These antioxidant properties are so highly prized that they are considered to be of greater value than even Vitamins C and E.
Antioxidants are thought to prevent and contain a number of ailments by protecting cells against the depredations of unstable oxygen molecules that are referred to as ‘free radicals’.
The procyanidolic oligomers (also called proanthocyanidins) are looked at as the most valuable flavonoids in grape seed extract that is usually referred to as PCO’s (or OPC’s).
PCO’s are believed to support healthy blood circulation and assist in the strengthening of blood vessels. This natural action is sought out by individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, adhd, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.
European physicians often recommend drugs containing PCO’s for a variety of vascular disorders that will potentially profit from increased blood flow. Such problems include diabetes, varicose veins, leg cramps, and lack of leg or arm sensations or tingling and possibly even impotence.
Elderly related vision problems such as cataracts or macular degeneration are also thought to be helped by grape seed extract’s effects on circulation.
Grape seed extract is thought to be able to block a pain and inflammatory chemical called prostaglandins that can cause endometriosis. The extract has no problem getting through membranes throughout the entire body with its antioxidant properties.
It can even work through the small veins in the brain to help keep the veins clear and protect the brain cells from free-radical damage (this passes through the blood-brain barrier).
More and more cosmetic companies are advertising the presence of grape seed extract in their skin care products. The extract is considered a great help in conserving the skin’s elasticity.
There are several other health maintenance benefits that make grape seed extract highly recommended as a supplement. The extract may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
The PCO’s are thought to behave similarly to aspirin in helping prevent blood cells from sticking together and forming blood clots. This helps deter the plaque development that can clog arteries.
A disorder that is difficult to detect and describe is fibromyalgia that is usually accompanied by chronic muscle stiffness and pain. Grape seed extract antioxidants can help defend enclosed surrounded muscle cells from damage.
The antioxidants working in grape seed extract do a great job in controlling cellular damage preventing mutations within the genetic makeup of cells that have the potential to form tumors. The extract is thought to help in holding up the progression of these cell’s development.
Grape seed extract also has a natural antihistamine and can help deal with the symptoms of allergies. It also stops the release of chemicals that can bring forth inflammation during an allergic reaction.
The antihistamine and anti-inflammatory activity can help relieve allergic reflexes like hives, hay fever and eczema.
The extract may help to control the sneezing, congestion and other hallmarks of an allergic reaction. The extract also inhibits the release of chemicals called prostaglandin that can generate inflammation during an allergic response.
Working in concert, the nutrient’s antihistamine and anti-inflammatory actions can help to keep at bay such allergic responses as hives, hay fever and eczema.
Grape seed extract is available is liquid, tablet and capsule forms. It is important to use and extract that has an extract preparation that is standardized to the percent of PCO’s.
For best results, follow the package directions and consult your doctor or herbalist for appropriate daily dosages and how to enjoy the benefits from an important plant. As always, consult your physician and an experienced herbalist before taking any dietary or herbal supplement.
Featured Product
One high quality product that meets and exceeds these requirements, and also contains a measured daily dose of healthy herbs, is Xtend-Life’s Total Balance. It is made to exacting specifications and contains only standardized extracts.
We here at Quality-Nutritional-Supplements have been personally taking this product, along with their superb pure fish oil with excellent results.