Grape seed extract is a supplement derived from the seeds of grapes, which contains high amounts of proanthocyanidins, a polyphenol that has strong antioxidant properties. These polyphenols are usually found in the seeds and skins of grapes and have been studied for potential health-promoting effects.
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What is grape seed extract?
Grape seed extract is a supplement derived from the seeds of grapes, which contains high amounts of proanthocyanidins, a polyphenol that has strong antioxidant properties. These polyphenols are usually found in the seeds and skins of grapes and have been studied for potential health-promoting effects.
What are grape seed extract’s main benefits?
Grape seed extract may benefit general cardiovascular health, inflammation, and metabolic health. Some studies have found that it can help reduce blood pressure,[1] improve blood lipids,[2][3] lower blood glucose,[3] and reduce liver enzymes.[4] However, most of the research isn’t quite conclusive, and higher-quality studies are needed to determine how beneficial grape seed extract is for these aspects of health.
How does grape seed extract work?
Grape seed extract reduces inflammation through its proanthocyanidins (which neutralize free radicals and inhibit inflammatory mediators) and its polyphenolic compounds (which inhibit the release of arachidonic acid, which triggers inflammation). The extract also contains unsaturated fatty acids that support cardiovascular health and provide additional antioxidant effects.[5]
What are other names for Grape Seed Extract?
Note that Grape Seed Extract is also known as:
- GSE
- Vitis vinifera
- Oligomeric proanthocyanidins
Grape Seed Extract should not be confused with:
- Resveratrol
- Pycnogenol
- Grape-seed oil
- Grapefruit seed extract
- Citrus seed extract
- Olive leaf extract
- OSE (abbreviation for olive leaf extract)
Dosage information
Formulation:
Grape seed extract is usually available in liquid extracts, tablets, or capsules. Its main active ingredient is oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs); some formulations may have varying amounts.
Range of dosages studied:
100 to 2,100 mg per day
Frequently asked questions
What is grape seed extract?
What is the history of grape seed extract, and how was it discovered?
The history traces back to a researcher, Jack Masquelier, who first isolated oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs) from peanut skin in 1947. Following his initial work with peanuts, Masquelier later found similar OPC compounds in grape seeds and pine bark, and grape seeds are particularly rich sources of these beneficial compounds. Analytical techniques for studying these extracts evolved over decades, from basic colorimetric methods to advanced chromatography. This soon led to the development of standardized grape seed extracts to be used for dietary supplementation. Eventually, it began to be studied for its potential health benefits, such as its effects on cardiovascular health and metabolic health.[6]
What’s the difference between grape seed extract and pycnogenol?
Grape seed extract and pycnogenol are both supplements that are known for containing oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes, but they come from different sources. Grape seed extract is derived from the seeds of grapes, and pycnogenol is extracted from the bark of French maritime pine. Both contain similar beneficial compounds, but their exact compositions differ slightly in the proportions and types of flavonoids they contain.
What are grape seed extract’s main benefits?
Grape seed extract may benefit general cardiovascular health, inflammation, and metabolic health. Some studies have found that it can help reduce blood pressure,[1] improve blood lipids,[2][3] lower blood glucose,[3] and reduce liver enzymes.[4] However, most of the research isn’t quite conclusive, and higher-quality studies are needed to determine how beneficial grape seed extract is for these aspects of health.
How does grape seed extract work?
Grape seed extract reduces inflammation through its proanthocyanidins (which neutralize free radicals and inhibit inflammatory mediators) and its polyphenolic compounds (which inhibit the release of arachidonic acid, which triggers inflammation). The extract also contains unsaturated fatty acids that support cardiovascular health and provide additional antioxidant effects.[5]
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