Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract is the liquid substance derived from the small seeds of red grapes. The extract may also come from the skins of red grapes occasionally, like in winemaking. With wine as a staple in European meals, grape seed extract is also used extensively in these countries. It is a rich source of flavonoids which are phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties. At some point, some even considered the flavonoids found in grape seed extract as more superior to vitamin C and vitamin E.

Antioxidants are substances that help get rid of unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals that are harmful to the body. They are believed to prevent and control numerous ailments caused by these free radicals and protect the cells from ravages and harm. And since grape seed extract is rich in antioxidants, the herb is therefore a great remedy for augmenting the immune system.

Grape seed extract contains several flavonoids but the most valuable are the procyanidolic oligomers or proanthocyanidins (PCOs). Aside from being powerful antioxidants, PCOs are reported to have a positive effect on the improvement of blood circulation. PCOs of grape seed extract can also help strengthen the blood vessels, thereby benefiting those people with heart disease and cancer.

Health Benefits

 Drugs containing PCO have been prescribed by many a European doctor for treating various vascular disorders. Aside from grape seed extract, PCO may also come from the maritime pine. Studies have shown that PCOs from pines have the same health benefits and therapeutic effects as grape seed extract. However, grape seed extract is much cheaper compared to processed pine PCO.

Grape seed extract can increase blood flow and benefit people with diabetes, leg cramps, varicose veins, arm and leg numbness or tingling, and even impotence. Because of its countless positive effects on circulation, the extract may also counteract muscular degeneration and cataracts that are common among the elderly.

Grape seed extract can block the release of prostaglandins. These chemicals are the main substances that cause pain and inflammation in disorders such as endometriosis. Thus, the extract can provide a cure for such disorders. Grape seed extract is also used as an ingredient in facial creams for they are said to help maintain skin elasticity. Many European skin creams feature grape seed extract for this purpose.

Another disease which can be minimized using grape seed extract is fibromylagia damage. Fibromylagia is an elusive disorder that is associated with chronic muscle pain and stiffness. With its antioxidant properties, the extract can help protect muscles cells from damages caused by free radicals.

Grape seed is also said to deter cancer. Countless studies have shown that antioxidants have certain effects on cancer cells, namely, stopping their rapid growth. The antioxidants in grape seed extract work hard at helping to control cellular damage by routinely hunting down and neutralizing mutations within the genetic material of cells that could lead to tumor formation. As a result, development and progression of cancers of the lung, breast, stomach, prostate, colon, skin, and other body parts are stalled.

Buying Information

Grape seed extract is sold in the market in many forms. They may be tablets, liquid, or capsule. Before buying the extract, make sure that the label says 92% or 95% PCO for this is the standardized formula in all grape seed preparation.