Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed extract (GSE) found in grape seeds, is often extracted from red wine grapes. It has several potential health benefits.
Grapeseed extract may
- Help to lower blood pressure
- Have antioxidant properties
- Possess anti-inflammatory properties
- Have antihistamine effects
- Strengthen veins
What are the benefits?
1) May lower blood pressure
According to research, drinking a beverage with grapeseed extract may lower blood pressure in people with pre-hypertension. (1)
2) Antioxidant properties
Grapeseed extract has antioxidant effects and may protect the body from harmful toxins. The toxins can result from smoking, pollution and the sun’s rays.
3) Anti-inflammatory properties
The extract may be anti-inflammatory and could benefit people with arthritis as the inflammation may cause stiffness and pain.
A study found that GSE may help people with inflammatory bowel disease by altering gut inflammation, protein expression, and gut microbiota composition. (2)
4) Antihistamine effects
Grapeseed extract may have antihistamine properties, which might be beneficial to those that suffer from hay fever and other allergies.
5) Strengthens veins
Grapeseed strengthens the capillaries, which could help to prevent varicose veins and thread veins from appearing.
According to Bonnie Singleton from Livestrong, grapes and grape seed extract contain antioxidant compounds called oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes. These compounds could reduce leakage in veins and swelling in the legs with a daily dose of 720 mg of grape seed extract. (3)
Grapeseed extract works well with
- Cherry extract for its anti-inflammatory properties in cases of arthritis and other joint problems
- Rutin to help strengthen veins
Some things to consider
There may be some side effects of grape seed extract. You must speak to a doctor before using supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition and or if you are on medication.
The side effects of grapeseed extract can include nausea, dizziness, headache, stomach ache, sore throat and itchy scalp.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26568249
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23963706
- https://healthfully.com/443693-grape-seed-varicose-veins.html
