Grape seed vitis vinifera
| Grape seeds derive their medicinal effects from compounds called proanthocyanidins which are generally extracted
from he grape seed and added to commercial preparations. Grape seed procyanidins are a type of flavonoidsof the flavan-3-o1 class. This class of flavonoids includes catechin and epicatechin which can be found in other plants including cocoa, apples, cranberries, blueberries and pine bark. Proanthocyanidins have demonstrated antioxidant activity and are believed to play a role in the stabilization of collagen and maintenance of elastin-two critical proteins in connective tissue that support organs, joints, blood vessels, and muscle. Results from a number of studies indicate that grape seed may be useful in relieving a number of conditions including vision difficulty, chronic venous insufficiency, lymphedema, varicose veins, cancer, premenstrual syndrome, dental cavities, and variety of circulatory disorders. Grape seed has been used in connection with chronic venous insufficiency (caused by damaged valves in the veins |
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| carrying blood to the heart), varicose veins, spider veins, and severe blood clotting and may also help keep veins and other blood vessels from
leaking. This blood vessel strengthening effect of grape seed extract may help to prevent and relieve hemorrhoids as well. Since it strengthens the walls of all blood vessels, grape seed extract may also be effective for slowing retinopathy, the gradual break down of the retinas in the eyes. Individuals with arteriosclerosis (a build up of fat deposits in the arteries), diabetes, or other conditions that increase the likelihood for damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes are more likely to have serious vision problems as a result of that damage. Grape seed extract may reduce eye stress caused by bright lights. |
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