Grapeseed Extract

Those pesky, bitter tasting seeds that you would normally spit out when eating a bunch of grapes? They are actually of some use. 

Removed from the fruit, dried and pulverised, the humble grape seed is full of antioxidants, as well as phenolic acids, anthocyanins and flavonoids.

Grapeseed extract is also one of the best available sources of oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes, also known as OPCs.

The blend of beneficial plant chemicals in grape seeds make grapeseed extract an excellent natural supplement for a whole range of concerns.

Its Antioxidant qualities mean that it may help to protect your body against the damage that can be caused by free radicals. 

The result of exposure to pollution, UV rays, smoke and a bad diet, free radical damage can lead to premature aging.

When taken in certain quantities grape seed supports heart health by contributing to a healthy blood pressure. 

Additionally, studies suggest that grapeseed extract may support good circulation, reducing the feeling of tired and heavy legs in people forced to sit still for a length of time. 

For this reason grapeseed may be beneficial for regular travellers or those with sedentary desk jobs.

There is some research that suggests those smart proanthocyanidins may aid hair growth. However, more data is still needed and this evidence is not conclusive.

Certainly grapeseed oil is an increasingly popular ingredient in hair care products due to its ability to help smooth, protect and give the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.

Generally safe, grapeseed extract supplements cause very few side effects. That said, even the best grape seed extract can cause minor issues, including headaches, an upset stomach, itchy scalp and dizziness.

GSE’s potential ability to thin the blood, increase blood flow and lower blood pressure means it may not be suitable for those taking certain medications. 

It is also not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Grapeseed may also lower iron absorption or improve drug metabolism. For this reason, it is a good idea to consult your GP before giving it a try.

As grapeseed extract is derived naturally from the seeds of grapes, both the supplement and the seeds of grapes contain the same health benefits.

Unlike some fruit seeds, it is safe to eat the seeds of grapes and grapes make for a healthy and sweet snack.

However, grape seed extract is more concentrated than eating grape seeds, which means that more of the benefits are packed into the capsules.

You’d have to eat a lot of grape seeds to get the same nutritional benefits!