Many different types of plants contain the chemical resveratrol, which protects against sun damage and other environmental stressors. Found most abundantly in wine made from red grapes, it possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that appears to offer protection against heart disease and possibly other conditions. Studies have found it extended the life of a variety of organisms including fish, flies and mice. While animal and test tube research on this seemingly potent agent appears promising, a lack of clinical research in humans makes it difficult to evaluate whether taking resveratrol in supplement form would offer any therapeutic benefit. Some dosage guidelines have been suggested but not firmly established due to this lack of research.
Suggested Dosages
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, or UPMC, reports a resveratrol dose of 500 mg daily has been suggested based on animal research. Dr. Xi Zhao-Wilson, Ph.D., writing for the Life Extension Foundation, says animal studies have shown doses equivalent to as little as 20 mg in humans were found to exert anti-aging effects and other benefits in test subjects. Because of the lack of clear dosing guidelines, consult with a physician for guidance on an appropriate amount to take.
Blood-Thinning Effect
Resveratrol has anti-clotting properties -- using it at the same time as warfarin or other anticoagulant drugs could increase the risk of bleeding. This type of risk increases in proportion to the dosage of the natural supplement you take, which underscores the importance of professional guidance in determining a dose if you take these types of drugs.
Estrogenic Activity
Do not use resveratrol if you have breast cancer, have had it in the past or have a risk of getting it. It has estrogenic properties, and the UPMC notes test tube studies found it stimulated the growth of breast cancer cells. This potential action makes it prudent to also avoid use if you have other potentially hormone-sensitive diseases such as ovarian cancer.
Other Considerations for Use
Whether you can safely use this supplement while pregnant or breastfeeding has not been established. If you have any condition that impairs liver or kidney function, talk to your doctor before using resveratrol as these organs play a central role in processing the supplements and drugs you consume. Clear the use of resveratrol with your doctor if you take any sort of prescription medication as this chemical was shown to interfere with the actions of several liver enzymes -- CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2C9 and CYP1A2. Using this supplement at the same time as drugs metabolized by these enzymes could lead to negative actions such as increased risk of side effects from the drugs.
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