Grape seeds are small, crunchy seeds found in the center of grapes. They are a byproduct of the grape pressing process, and are typically discarded during winemaking. However, grape seeds have emerged as a highly nutritious food and supplement.
Grape seeds correspond to 40- 50 canvases, including adipose acids like linoleic acid and oleic acid. They also contain factory composites called proanthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. Proanthocyanidins, also known as condensed tannins, belong to the flavonoid group of polyphenols.
Studies show grape seeds contain advanced quantities of antioxidants than vitamin C and vitamin E. Antioxidants help neutralize unstable motes called free revolutionaries that can damage cells. Grape seeds also give salutary fiber, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, and bobby.
Grape seeds are available in several forms. Whole dried seeds can be eaten as a snack or sprinkled on foods. Grape seed oil is pressed from the seeds, providing concentrated fatty acids and antioxidants. Grape seed extract supplements offer higher proanthocyanidin amounts in powder or capsule form.
Health Benefits of Grape Seeds
A growing body of research suggests grape seeds may offer a number of science-backed health benefits:
1 Heart Health
Grape seed proanthocyanidins have been studied for their potential cardiovascular benefits. Animal studies show they may reduce elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Human studies indicate grape seed extract may support healthy blood vessels by preserving elasticity and reducing inflammation.
A one-year double blind, placebo-controlled study in 40 postmenopausal women found 300 mg per day of grape seed extract significantly lowered systolic blood pressure compared to placebo. More research is underway on grape seeds' effect on cholesterol levels.
2 Antioxidant Protection
Grape seeds extract powder provide powerful antioxidant protection due to their concentrated proanthocyanidin content. Studies show grape seed antioxidants are readily absorbed in the stomach and small intestine.
In a controlled trial, healthy adults supplemented with 300 mg of grape seed extract daily for 5 days. Their plasma antioxidant capacity was significantly increased by 27% versus baseline. The potent antioxidant properties of grape seeds may help prevent cellular damage throughout the body.
3 Reduced Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory activity of grape seeds may also benefit health. Inflammation is a normal immune response, but chronic inflammation is linked to diseases. Grape seed proanthocyanidins have been found to reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein in humans.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study had obese subjects take 150 mg per day of grape seed extract. After 4 weeks, the grape seed group had significantly lower CRP levels compared to placebo. More human research is needed to confirm anti-inflammatory effects.
4 Wound Healing
Early research indicates grape seed extracts may aid wound repair. One study treated mice with third-degree burns using a grape seed proanthocyanidin cream. The group treated for 15 days showed faster wound contraction and better collagen deposition compared to controls.
More studies are needed, but grape seeds show promise for improving recovery from burns, scars, and other skin wounds when applied topically.
Grape Seed P.E
Grape seed P.E. stands for proanthocyanidin extract. It is a commercially available supplement containing concentrated polyphenols extracted from grape seeds.
Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract is manufactured by first milling the grape seeds from wine making to form a fine powder. The powder is mixed with solvents like acetone or ethanol to separate the proanthocyanidins and flavonoids from lipids, sugars and other components. The solution is then filtered and the solvents removed to provide a standardized grape seed extract.
Supplement labels with grape seed P.E. or P.E. 4:1 signify that the product has been concentrated to provide higher potencies of grape seed proanthocyanidins. Different extraction ratios represent the amount of raw material required to produce each dose. For instance, a 50:1 extract takes 50 pounds of grape seed powder to make 1 pound of extract.
Studies use varying doses of grape seed P.E., often between 100-300 mg daily. Consuming proanthocyanidin extracts allows for higher intake than eating whole grape seeds. However, some experts argue that using isolated extracts separates grape seeds from other beneficial components found in grapes.
What Does Grape Seed Extract Do to Your Body?
Grape seed extract provides unique health benefits thanks to its rich supply of proanthocyanidins. Here's what happens when you consume it:
- Antioxidants widely absorb into circulation and defend against oxidative damage to cells and tissues.
- Proanthocyanidins stimulate release of nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels and promoting healthy circulation.
- It exhibits anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting inflammatory compounds like C-reactive protein.
- May improve collagen strength and integrity in connective tissues like joints and skin.
- Compounds prevent over-clotting and reduce aggregation of platelets in blood vessels.
- Proanthocyanidins bond with proteins, providing astringent and toning effects when applied to skin.
- Extract aids wound healing and minimizes scarring when used topically.
- Immune-boosting effects seen at higher doses by enhancing immune cell activity.
While more research is still needed in humans, grape seed extract shows tremendous potential in benefiting cardiovascular health, inflammation, skin aging, wounds, and disease prevention.
Can Grape Seed Extract Dissolve Blood Clots?
Some early research suggests grape seed extract may help prevent excessive clotting due to its effects on platelets and thrombus formation. Studies show grape seed proanthocyanidins can inhibit platelet aggregation in vitro and in animal models.
A study in rabbits fed a high cholesterol diet found 300 mg/kg of grape seed extract inhibited platelet aggregation by up to 25%, while also improving blood lipids. The authors proposed grape seed antioxidants may benefit platelet function.
However, there is insufficient clinical evidence showing grape seed extract dissolves or breaks up existing blood clots in humans. Its ability to improve circulatory health may indirectly lower risks for thrombosis long-term. But more research is needed to prove effects.
Those on blood thinners or at risk of bleeding disorders should exercise caution with grape seed extract and consult their doctor first. While grape seed shows potential for improving platelet function, stronger evidence is still needed regarding its direct impact on blood clot reduction or dissolution specifically.
Does Grape Seed Extract Increase Testosterone?
Grape seeds extract do not contain testosterone or have any direct effects on testosterone levels in the body. However, some components in grape seeds may offer indirect benefits for testosterone balance.
The main polyphenols in grape seeds are from the flavonoid group. Some research shows specific flavonoids could potentially support healthy testosterone production.
In an animal study, male rats fed grape seed extract for 6 weeks showed increased levels of testosterone versus controls. The researchers proposed grape seeds may impact cholesterol synthesis pathways involved in testosterone production.
Additionally, the antioxidant benefits of grape seeds may help mitigate oxidative damage to testicular Leydig cells responsible for producing testosterone. This suggests grape seed compounds could play a protective role in maintaining normal testosterone balance.
That said, current evidence specifically linking grape seed intake to increased testosterone in humans remains weak. More clinical trials are needed to determine clear effects. Those with low testosterone should consult their doctor about proven therapies.
Is Too Much Grape Seed Extract Bad For You?
Moderate intake of grape seed extract is considered safe for most healthy adults. Doses up to 300 mg per day have been well tolerated in studies lasting several months. Reported side effects are generally mild and may include headache, itchy scalp, dizziness, and nausea.
However, high doses of grape seed extract may have some risks:
- Since it prevents platelets from clumping, there could be concerns about easy bruising or bleeding with excessive use, especially before surgery.
- Grape seeds contain high amounts of antioxidant polyphenols. Very high intake may potentially affect liver health and interfere with other antioxidant systems in the body.
- Grape seed oil contains omega-6 fatty acids. Consuming extremely large amounts could potentially lead to inflammation issues if omega-3 intake is low.
- Grape seed extract supplements may interact with blood thinners, NSAIDs, and cytochrome P450 medications.
To be safe, adults should not exceed 400-600 mg daily of grape seed extract without medical approval. Pregnant or nursing women, children, and those with bleeding disorders or on medication should also exercise caution and consult a doctor about grape seed use.
While an excellent source of polyphenols and omega fatty acids, it's wise to consume grape seeds and extracts in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Remember, using the whole food provides better nutrition than extracts alone. Further research is still needed on grape seeds' therapeutic dosage and safety with long-term use.
Botanical Cube Inc. stands as a high-quality supplier in the Plant Extract Industry Association. With three compliant production bases and the capacity to process thousands of tons of plant raw materials each year, we ensure a stable supply of products.
Our advanced technology and complete production line enable us to offer more than 200 varieties of plant extracts, which are exported to countries worldwide. These extracts serve various industries, including herbal medicine, health food, dietary supplements, food, and beverages, as well as daily chemical and cosmetic industries.
As a professional supplier, we take pride in providing high-quality China Grape Seed P.E. If you are interested in obtaining this product or want to learn more, please feel free to contact us at sales@botanicalcube.com. We look forward to assisting you with any inquiries or orders you may have.
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2. datasheet about grape seed extract. (2021). ET Chem. https://www.etchem.net/product/grape-seed-extract-datasheet/
3. Dinicola, S., Cucina, A., Antonacci, D., & Bizzarri, M. (2014). Grape seed extract suppresses MDA-MB231 breast disease cell migration and invasion. European journal of nutrition, 53(4), 1381–1389.
4. Shi J, Yu J, Pohorly JE, Kakuda Y. Polyphenolics in grape seeds-biochemistry and functionality. J Med Food. 2003;6(4):291-299.
5. Parry J, Su L, Luther M, et al. Fatty acid composition and antioxidant properties of cold-pressed marionberry, boysenberry, red raspberry, and blueberry seed oils. J Agric Food Chem. 2005;53(3):566-573.
6. Preuss HG, Wallerstedt D, Talpur N, et al. Effects of niacin-bound chromium and grape seed proanthocyanidin extract on the lipid profile of hypercholesterolemic subjects: a pilot study. J Med. 2000;31(5-6):227-246.