Grape seed extract contains what’s known as OPCs or oligomeric proanthocyanidins, types of polyphenols known to be effective antioxidants. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals and work to rid the body of chemicals that do damage to cell walls, intracellular structures and DNA. In particular, OPCs from grape seed extract help make blood vessels healthy, working to prevent hemorrhoids (dilated veins), varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis and hardening of the arteries. High blood pressure is improved as well with the OPCs in grape seed extract.
Grape seed extract also seems to affect the cholesterol system of the body, blocking lipid peroxidation and therefore blocking the negative effects of plaques within arteries. In addition, it appears to block absorption of cholesterol so less is absorbed in the body and more is eliminated from the body. It also seems to block leakage of vessels as occurs with vision damaging retinopathies. Grape seed extract seems to affect these things when taken as a preventative agent. It’s not unlike the French who have a low incidence of heart disease and who drink grape-based wine more often than others.
Grape seed extract is made from the oil pressed out of the seeds of grapes and is made into a tincture, capsule or tablets usually containing 50 mg or 100 mg of the grape seed extract. While recommended doses are different for specific uses, a common recommendation for maintaining general health is 50 mg to 200 mg per day.
Generally, grape seed extract is safe to take; however, some who take it may experience stomach pains, oily stools, headache, sore throat, cough and nausea. Many side effects are temporary in nature.
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Clouatre DL, Kandaswami C. Grape seed extract. In: Coates P, Blackman M, Cragg G, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2005:309-325.
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Enginar H. “Effect of grape seed extract on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant activity and peripheral blood lymphocytes in rats exposed to x-radiation.” Phytother Res. 2007 Jul 11.
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Raina K, et al. “Oral grape seed extract inhibits prostate tumor growth and progression in TRAMP mice.” Cancer Res. 2007 Jun 15;67(12):5976-82.
