Hello Johnny!
I hope this finds you well and dug out of all the snow y’all got
dumped on you last week! We caught the tail end of it ourselves when
we went to PA for vacation, then came home to OH and a blizzard!
Yikes!
So. Grape Seed Extract. Supposedly quite the “super-anti-oxidant”.
Why don’t we break this one down to see what it does, how it can help,
and how much you should take?
Benefits of Grape seed Extract
-------------------------------------
What are the benefits of using grape seed extract? As with most
dietary supplements, it depends on who you ask. Happily enough,
actual studies seem to be saying exactly what “health nuts” have been
saying! Instead of just hype, there’s real information available, and
it looks very promising. Let’s examine what nutritionists and health
food purveyors have to say about what it does:
-- increases circulation
-- prevents “free radical” damage
-- strengthens capillary walls
-- strengthens connective tissue
-- increases visual acuity
-- increases skin resilience
-- increases mental functioning (hey, maybe I need some of this!)
-- increases resistance to bruising
-- enhances energy
-- reduces allergy symptoms
-- helps reduce blood pressure
-- helps lower cholesterol
-- reduces cancer risk
-- helps prevent senility
-- helps alleviate varicose veins
-- helps ease arthritis inflammation
-- offers a boost to the immune system
-- relieves stress
The following articles and citations were used as sources for the list
above:
Grape Seed Extract
http://www.healthandfitnessforums.com/grape.html
PYC-30
http://www.integratedhealth.com/hpdspec/pycth.html
Grape Seed Extract
http://www.health-n-energy.com/grape seed.htm
Antioxidants, Free Radicals, and Grape seed Extract
http://www.cockup.com/antioxidants.php
Menopause Online
http://www.menopause-online.com/grape seed.htm
Grape Seed Extract - Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/alt/grape seed_faq.htm
Grape Seed Extract
http://healthspotlight.com/Grape seedExtract.htm
Grape Seed Extract and Heart Recovery
Life Extension, Nov2002, Vol. 8 Issue 11, p75, 2p
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=7535173&db=awh
Grape seed extract induces apoptotic death of human prostate carcinoma
DU145 cells via caspases activation accompanied by dissipation of
mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome c release.
Carcinogenesis [Carcinogenesis] 2002 Nov; 23 (11), pp. 1869-76.
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=12419835&db=cmedm&tg=PM
Sauvignon soak
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=8806219&db=awh
Fight Allergy with Grape Seed/Pine Bark Extracts & Black Seed, by
Agnes Bellegris
Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition, May99 Issue 199, p19,
1p
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=5974114&db=awh
Rx for Varicose Veins, by Jennifer Barrett
Yoga Journal, Feb99 Issue 144, p23, 1p
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=6168561&db=awh
Grape Seed Extract Potent Antioxidant, by Max Costello
Positive Health, Jan97, Issue 16, p46, 4p
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=6092185&db=awh
Symmetry: Grape Seed Extract
http://www.go-symmetry.com/info/grape-seed.htm
What else can it do?
------------------------
Some recent studies indicate that grape seed extract applied topically
can speed the healing of wounds. (Unfortunately, topical grape seed
extract is not yet available.) The same studies also point to
ingestion of grape seed extract increasing the production of a
compound which figures prominently in the repair of damaged blood
vessels, allowing them to regenerate more rapidly:
“The extract seemed to aid wound healing in two ways: it helped the
body make more of a compound used to regenerate damaged blood vessels,
and it also increased the amount of free radicals in the wound site.
Free radicals help clear potentially pathogenic bacteria from a wound.
[…]
In a related experiment, the researchers also treated human skin cells
with GSPE, finding that the extract helped the laboratory-grown cells
produce more VEGF.
"More VEGF means blood vessels will form faster and that more
nutrients will be carried by the blood to regenerate damaged tissue,"
Sen said.
In addition to helping blood vessels regenerate, GSPE also seemed to
increase free radical levels at the wound site. It may seem odd that
an antioxidant could help oxidation -- the formation of free radicals
-- flourish.”
Grape-seed extract has healing effect By Holly Wagner, Research
Communications
On Campus Discoveries – The Ohio State University - Dec. 19, 2002,
Vol. 32, No.12
http://www.acs.ohio-state.edu/oncampus/v32n12/discoveries.html
The BBC reported that grape seed extract could help heal cancer
scarring. The London based Institute of Cancer Research is currently
conducting a clinical trial:
“Doctors at The Institute of Cancer Research in London believe the
antioxidants in grapes may protect against radiation fibrosis.
This condition affects thousands of women around the world each year.
It causes tissue around the breast to become hard and stiff. In some
cases, it is painful.
[…]
The doctors are planning to recruit 72 patients initially. Half will
be given tablets containing grape seed extract while the others will
receive a dummy pill.
This will enable the researchers to determine if the grape seed
extract can protect women from fibrosis.
Professor Yarnold said: "Radiotherapy is followed over the years by
tissue hardening and tenderness in the breast and underlying muscles
in some women.
"We aim to test if grape seed extract reverses these changes and
improves patients' quality of life."
He added: "If successful, we aim to conduct further clinical trials in
radiotherapy patients cured of other cancers where fibrosis may cause
other serious medical problems."
Grapes 'may prevent cancer scarring'
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/2748979.stm
According to Dr. Ron Schmid of the Connecticut Center for Alternative
Medicine, studies have shown grape seed extract to be helpful in the
treatment of atherosclerosis (a weakening and degeneration of blood
vessels). Grape seed extract has also aided in the treatment of
macular degeneration (a condition in which the retinas rapidly
deteriorate, leading to blindness):
“Grape Seed Extract is Essential in the Treatment of Atherosclerosis
and of Venous and Capillary Disorders
 Many major clinical studies have shown marked benefits in
treating circulation problems involving venous insufficiency, varicose
veins, capillary fragility, and disorders of the retina including
macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. In one study with
healthy volunteers, 200 mg per day significantly improved visual
function within six weeks. PCOs are incorporated into the membranes of
cells, where they provide antioxidant protection against free radical
damage. Free radical damage is thought to be a major causative
mechanism in age related macular degeneration as well as in diabetic
retinopathy.”
Grape Seed Extract—A Powerful Antioxidant with Wide Ranging Benefits
Grape Seed Extract Enhances Venous and Capillary Strength and Inhibits
the Production of Free Radicals
by Ron Schmid, N.D.
http://www.drrons.com/grape_seed_extract.html
Ginger Webb writes for the American Botanical Council:
“Found in abundance (less than 1 percent by weight) in grape seeds, a
group of polyphenols called procyanidins have received particular
attention for their pharmacological properties.
[…]
Clinical trials conducted on the therapeutic effects of procyanidins
have yielded positive results. At least two clinical studies have been
conducted on procyanidins' effects on peripheral venous insufficiency.
In a double-blind study of 50 patients, 25 were treated for one month
with procyanidins (150 mg/day) and 25 with the semi-synthetic diosmin
(450 mg/day). Both therapies were shown to be effective in alleviating
symptoms, but procyanidins worked more quickly and their effects
lasted longer. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 92
patients, procyanidins were shown to improve venous functionality and
to reduce pain, cramps, edema, and paresthesia (tingling, "pins and
needles").
BENEFITS OF GRAPE SEED EXTRACT
HerbalGram, Spring97 Issue 39, p20, 1p
http://search.epnet.com/direct.asp?an=6223285&db=awh
Nutra-fitness says that grape seed extract can help prevent heart
disease:
“New studies show that Grape seed extract is important in helping to
prevent heart disease. One in particular demonstrated that the extract
reduced vascular cell damage and secretion of cell adhesion molecules
in human endothelial cells, a root cause of many cardio disorders.”
Headline Supplements
http://www.nutrafitness.com/hlsupps.htm
How much should I take?
-------------------------------
According to an article at Interhealth, the recommended dose is 100
milligrams per day, so you’re right on track!
The recommended adult daily dosage is 50 to 100 milligrams, although
up to 200 milligrams per day split into 2 doses of 100 milligrams each
is a safe and effective dose. Grape Seed Extract should be taken with
meals. For additional information on dosing, follow manufacturer’s
recommended use printed on the label, and/or talk to your healthcare
professional.”
Grape Seed Extract Questions
http://www.interhealthusa.com/faqs/gse_faqs.aspx
Whole Health MD.com offers a similar recommendation:
“For general antioxidant and cancer-prevention use: Take 100 mg each
morning. Smokers should take 100 mg three times a day.”
Grape Seed Extract – dosage
http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,793,00.html#Dosage_Information
(This is the part where I get all stern and big-sister-y on you and
remind you to check with your physician before you go beyond the
recommended dose of any supplement. If you’re on any other
medications, like anti-depressants, anti-coagulants (blood thinners)
or medications for hypertension, make sure you check twice! We want
you to stay healthy!)
Now, what about Grape Seed Extract and hair loss?
According to Whole Health MD.com, it isn’t specifically meant to help
combat hair loss, but there was apparently a study that indicated that
it might help regrow hair:
“Grape seed extract is a high-potency antioxidant capable of
protecting virtually every cell in the body from free-radical damage.
Although not specifically designed for hair loss, researchers recently
discovered that grapeseed extract increased hair growth in lab
animals.”
How Supplements Can Help
http://www.wholehealthmd.com/hc/resourceareas_learn/1,1441,540,00.html#top_5
It would appear that this refers to the study noted at Regrowth.com,
which showed some regrowth in mice, but is careful to note that it
hasn’t been tested on humans yet:
“Several published studies by one team of researchers indicate that it
will stimulate hair growth, although actual studies in humans showing
how well have not been performed.”
Hair Loss Treatment: Proanthocyanidins (Grape Seed Extract)
http://www.regrowth.com/hair_loss_treatments/proanthocyanidin_grape_seed_extract/proanthocyanidin_grape_seed_extract.cfm
Several abstracts of the study mentioned can be found here:
Proanthocyanidins Information
http://www.raztec.com/proantho.html
Quality Health touts it as an anti-androgen, but I’ve not been able to
locate anything to back up their assertion:
“There are studies showing that Grape Seed Extract is another
effective all natural anti-androgens which is beneficial for hair
loss. Certain pharmacies in the U.S are already formulating Grape
Seed Extract based Topical Minoxidil . Grape Seed Extract is very
similar to pine bark extract as it contains a unique type of
bioflavonoids called proanthocyanidins, which are synergistic with
Vitamin C, that is, they greatly enhance the activity of Vitamin C.
Some researchers believe that Grape Seed Extract helps Vitamin C enter
cells, thus strengthening the cell membranes and protecting the cells
from oxidative damage.”
Grape Seed Extract
http://www.hairsite.com/qhi.htm
In summary: grape seed extract, while not specifically a hair loss
remedy, is still a very useful and healthy supplement when taken as
directed. Currently in clinical trials in the UK for the reduction of
cancer related scarring, it’s also been shown by the Ohio State
University to help speed wound healing (very useful, that!).
Additionally, grape seed extract has been shown to be a powerful
anti-oxidant, which helps counteract “free radical” damage associated
with pollution and aging. Its anti-cancer properties are being
researched, as are its blood vessel building qualities, and it’s
expected that there will be further research into its use in the
treatment of macular degeneration and other eyesight afflictions.
I hope this information has been helpful! If you need further
assistance or have more questions about grape seed extract, please
don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. I’ll be glad to help!
--Missy
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