Grape Seed Extract & Leukemia

Leukemia is the cancer of the blood-forming tissues of the body such as the bone marrow and lymphatic system. It usually starts in the white blood cells and is characterized by frequent infections, fever, fatigue, weight loss, easy bruising and red spots on skin. The exact cause is unknown, although family history, exposure to radiation and certain blood disorders may increase the risk of the leukemias. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Some natural supplements such as grape seed extract may also help manage the condition.

About Grape Seed Extract

Grape, or Vitis vinifera, plant is a climbing vein with jagged leaves and green, purple or red fruits. Grape seed extract is obtained from their seeds, as the name suggests, and its biological activity is due to compounds such as proanthocyanidin, vitamin E, flavonoids and linoleic acid. The seeds are available as capsules, tablets and liquid extract and have been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions including edema, high cholesterol, venous insufficiency, diabetes and certain cancers. The dose and form depend on the age of the patient and condition being treated.

Link Between Grape Seed Extract and Leukemia

Grape seed extract induces the programmed cell death of human leukemia cells in the laboratory by activating the enzymes of the apoptosis pathways, according to a study published in the January 2009 issue of the journal "Clinical Cancer Research." Another study published in the March 2005 issue of the "Chinese Medical Journal" also reported that grape seed extract promotes the death of human acute myeloid leukemia cells in the laboratory. The proanthocynidins in grape seed extracts also possess significant antioxidant activity and prevent the free radical mediated damage of the cells in the body, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may protect the blood and lymphatic cells from damage and prevent chronic conditions such as cancer.

Side Effects

Grape seed extract is generally safe to use, especially when taken orally for up to 8 weeks, according to the National Center of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. However, side effects such as dry, itchy scalp, dizziness, headache, high blood pressure, indigestion and nausea have been reported occasionally. The extract may also interfere with certain anticoagulant and blood-thinning medications.

Precautions

The benefits of grape seed extract have not been proven in actual clinical cases. So be sure to talk to a doctor before using it to avoid complications. Also, remember that the production and distribution of herbal supplements in the United States is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. So, try your best to ensure the safety of the product.