Grape Seed Extract

DESCRIPTION/FUNCTION

• Grapes are native to southern Europe and western Asia, but are cultivated in many temperate regions around the world. Grape Seed Extract (GSE), along with a pine bark extract (pycnogenols), contains oligomer proanthocyanidins (OPCs), sometimes called procyanidolic oligomers. Besides OPCs, grape seeds contain catechins, ellagic acid, fruit acids (citric, malic, oxalic, succinic, tartaric), and resveratrol.

DRI (RDA or AI for Adults)

• None.

MAJOR SOURCES

• Seeds from various grapes.

MAINTENANCE/THERAPEUTIC RANGE

• 50 mg to 400 mg (standardized to 95% OPCs, although there is controversy on the validity of this reference).

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

• Bruising
• Cancer
• Coronary heart disease
• Liver support
• Inflammation
• Retinopathy
• Varicose veins

COMMENTS

• GSE has antioxidant properties, and works with vitamin C in connective tissue maintenance. OPCs have been researched since the 1950s by Jack Masquelier, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, University of Bordeaux, France.

CAUTIONS

• Consult with your health practitioner if you are taking a blood thinning drug.