About Grape Seed

For thousands of years, grapes have been recognized for their nutritional, medicinal and cultural value. The pulp and skins were prized and extolled while the seeds were marginalized such that some varieties of grapes are propagated that have no seeds. The tide has turned, as research is showing that grape seeds hold the natural chemical keys to unlocking many of the ailments that have long plagued mankind.

History

Grapes were consumed by the Egyptians at least 6,000 years ago, and the Greeks extolled the power of the grape to heal in its many incarnations, including wine. Sap from the vine was used to treat skin and eye ailments in Europe, while the leaves were supposed to ease inflammation and pain and to stop bleeding. Raisins were treatments for thirst and constipation while the not-yet ripe fruits were remedies for sore throats. Beginning in the late 1800s, the availability of industrially derived extracts of the grape seeds has been steadily increasing. More modern forms of chemical analysis are showing that grapes, and the seeds in particular, contain high concentrations of certain compounds beneficial to the human body.

Function

Whole grape seeds contain high concentrations of compounds possessing potential anti-disease properties, including oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), flavonoids, linoleic acid and vitamin E. OPCs, flavonoids and vitamin E are recognized antioxidants and help to remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are produced naturally by oxidation reactions and are associated with aging and some cancers. Linoleic acid is an omega-6 essential fatty acid that has been linked to the prevention of cancer, diabetes and cystic fibrosis.

Effects

In the first clinical examination of the effects of grape seed extract, scientists from the University of California Davis were able to show that it both reduced blood pressure and lowered LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. The researchers applied different grape seed extract supplement treatment to three groups of eight participants and compared their blood pressure and cholesterol reading before, during, and after the study. The first group was given a placebo and showed no significant differences. The second group was given 150mg supplements and exhibited a significant decrease in blood pressure. The third group received 300mg supplements and had a significant decrease in blood pressure and a significant drop in LDL cholesterol levels as well.

Benefits

Grape seed is a natural and well-tolerated alternative to the many side effects associated with synthesized cholesterol-lowering prescription medications available. In a Georgetown University medical study, grape seed extract was used for two months and successfully lowered the LDL cholesterol levels of all 40 human participants without any reported problems.

Warning

Flavonoids are a mild blood thinning agent and when taken in conjunction with prescription blood-thinning medications may result in increased bleeding. If your doctor has placed you on any blood-thinning medication, consult him before beginning a regimen of grape seed supplements.