High quality grape seed extract supplements sold online should contain at least 80% procyanidin content, with top-rated products containing as much as 95% procyanidin.
This is the active ingredient in Grape seed extract pills that acts as an antioxidant and supports circulation and heart health.
The use of grape seed extract supplements has been linked to improvements in systolic blood pressure, inflammation, hypertension, and increased bone density. But not all forms of this supplement are equal.
If you want to buy the best quality grape seed extract capsules, it is necessary to examine product labels closely to determine which provides the highest concentration of active proanthocyanidins.
Grape seed extract is a by-product of the wine industry. Most extracts are produced from the seeds of Vitis vinifera, labrusca, and muscadine grapes. Grape seed extract is essentially the crushed seeds of the grape. This compound is then formed into tablets or capsules.
When the grape seeds are being crushed, the oil separates from the powdered seed. The oil can be used both in cooking and in beauty treatments. Although the term ‘extract’ is used when referring to grape seed, the product is in fact a powder rather than a fluid.



- Supports brain health & alertness
- Improves heart health & cholesterol levels
- Potent anti-oxidant & procyanidins source
Benefits of Grape Seed Extract Supplements
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Research focusing specifically on grape seed extract as having qualities which may prevent heart attacks is still in its early stages.
The interest arises from what is now known as the French Paradox. This refers to the contradictions relating to the number of deaths between the UK and France as a result of heart attacks.
The death rate in France is one quarter of the figure in the UK. The French, like the British, are known for eating fatty foods, so the conclusion was drawn that the French love of red wine may be contributing factor.
Several components in the French diet have been identified as potentially contributing to the better health outcomes of this group. So far, studies which have used grape seed extract in isolation have failed to find substantive evidence for this.
However a corresponding survey which measured the effects of red wine on lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, established significant results. It concluded that the polyphenolic properties of red wine possibly delayed absorption of dietary fat.
It does make the case however that all alcohol should be consumed in moderation and not used as a preventative measure or dietary aid. For this reason, buying red wine extract or grape seed extract supplements may be preferable.
The Best Grape Seed Extract Products
Much of the quality of a grape seed extract supplement is related to the processing and production methods. The best method where the medicinal qualities are not depleted is called cold pressing. This means that no or little heat is used in the processing of the seeds.
Some processing methods use heat and others use alcohol solvents, both of which can reduce the potency. During production many compounds may be added, some which may be nutritional, both also fillers, flow agents, and preservatives.
Finding an extract which is high in polyphenols appears to be a reasonable indicator of quality. If the information is available, the processing methods should also be taken into consideration. There are also available a small number of tinctures which are alcohol free. The product range is very limited though as the compound lends itself better to tablets and capsules.
Additional products are available in whole grape extract and red wine extracts. These contain different chemicals, compounds, and concentrations. Grape seed extract supplements do contain a small proportion of resveratrol but the concentration is much higher in the skin of the fruit.
Resveratrol is a supplement made from the skin of red grapes and again has different properties. This product should not be confused with grape seed extract as it has its own specific qualities.
Reviews of Grape Seed Extract Supplements
The bestselling grape seed extract products do not necessarily equate with being best quality. However bulk grape seed extract supplements have particularly strong sales.
The extract comes in powder form and quantities available range from 100 gm to 1 kg. The product contains no fillers or additives in any form.
The ingredients list also states clearly that the extract is made from the seeds of the Vitis vinifera, one of the recommended seeds to use.
Now Foods sell grape seed extract supplements in capsule form. This product is another very popular brands. It contains amla extract which is a natural source of vitamin C. The capsule is cellulose and the product is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Another product which proves popular is Muscadine grape seed extract. This supplement only uses seeds from the Muscadine grape which is native to the southeastern area of the US.
Some research studies indicate that different grape seeds have more positive results and, although inconclusive, the indications are this is a good quality extract.
Grape Seed Extract Effects
As an herbal supplement, substantive research is currently either inconclusive or lacking. There are numerous conditions which scientific research has indicated may benefit from the use of grape seed extract supplements including:
- Reducing inflammation
- Strengthening collagen
- Diabetes
- Retinopathy
- Improving circulation
- Assisting wound healing
- Anti-aging properties
- Cancer protection
- Atherosclerosis
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Prevention against heart attack and stroke
The Natural Medicines database has rated grape seed extract as Possibly Effective for improving chronic venous insufficiency and ocular stress. Research on grape seed extract for other uses such as age-related cognitive impairment, hypertension, and high cholesterol has been promising so far, however more research is still needed. At this time, the FDA has not approved grape seed extract as a drug to prevent or treat any conditions. Grape seed extract is available as a dietary supplement only.
What Are the Side Effects of Grape Seed Extract?
There is no evidence of any common side effects associated with the product. Those who are allergic to grapes should also avoid grape seed extract supplements.
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to a clinician prior to taking grape seed extract. The same advice applies to those who are taking medications or have other known allergies.
Your doctor may have further recommendations on which is the best grape seed extract supplement brand to buy for your personal needs.
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Article last updated on: May 12th, 2018 by Nootriment