Grape Seed Extract
What is grape seed extract?
Grape Seed extract, or GSE is an extract from the seeds of grapes. The seeds left over from the production of wine or juice are harvested, ground and extracted. They have a high content of compounds known as OPC’s (oligomeric proanthocyanidins). OPC’s are found in virtually all plants, and they have been declared to be nontoxic, non-mutagenic, non-carcinogenic, and free of side effects, according to a review by German researcher Professor Peter Rohdewald. OPC increases the structural strength of weakened blood vessels, it is also one of the most potent antioxidants known. Grape Seed Extract is one of the least expensive ways to get your daily dose of OPC’s.
Why should you take grape seed extract?
Very few items in the nutritional arsenal can boast as many potential benefits as grape seed extract can.
Grape seed extract and the skin
Some studies say that OPC’s are 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E. Grape seed is one traditional source of OPC’s, although they are present throughout the plant world.
In a review of the benefits of the OPC’s found in grape seed extract, Bombardelli and Morazzoni (Fitoterapia 66, no. 4 [1995]) note that OPCs’ antioxidant effects are generally credited for their other benefits. The authors note that these include an antimutagenic effect; that is, they inhibit the mutation of DNA. The authors point out that chronic degenerative diseases are believed to be a result of environmental mutagens (substances that cause mutation). OPC’s may be able to counter these mutagens.
OPC’s also have “cosmetic” value. They protect collagen and elastin, which are an important part of the makeup of skin. It is the interlacing of collagen and elastin which gives skin its strength, elasticity, and smoothness. When these two substances are damaged, the skin loses elasticity—the result can be wrinkles. OPC’s help restore damaged collagen and elastin and protect them against further damage. You could say that OPC’s are an oral cosmetic to keep skin healthy.
