Vitis Vinifera Extract (Grape Seed) Benefits & Side Effects

Vitis vinifera extract is another name for grape seed extract. Grapes have been used as food and medicine for at least 6000 years according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM).

Although grapes are commonly enjoyed in the form of wine today, in the past, folk healers used grapevine sap to make ointments used to improve eye and skin diseases.

Grape leaves were used to improve pain, bleeding and inflammation, especially when associated with hemorrhoids.

V. vinifera fruit, seed and leaf extracts have been and continue to be researched for various conditions – including cancer, cholera, chronic venous insufficiency and liver disease. [1]

Research demonstrates that a number of the active phytochemicals found in vitis vinifera extract have beneficial effects on different physiological processes. Clinical (human-based) evidence for the majority of grape seed extract uses is lacking, but research continues.

Grape Seed Extract

Anti-Oxidant Supplement

Heart Health

Brain Function

Anti- oxidant

How It Works:

• Supports brain health & alertness
• Improves heart health & cholesterol levels
• Potent anti-oxidant & procyanidins source

Dosage:

Between 150 - 300 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Vitis Vinifera Extract Benefits

NMCD (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database) states that there are currently 2743 commercial products available that contain Vitis vinifera extract.

Grape extract products contain chemicals called oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs). [1]

OPCs are most concentrated in the seeds of grapes. However, they are also found in the leaf, skin and juice.

Grape seed is also a good source of vitamin E, linoleic acid and flavonoids. [2]

Multiple studies have shown beneficial effects of grape flavonoids – including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet and vasodilatory properties. [2]

Resveratrol in a natural phenol found in high amounts in grape skin. Research is ongoing to explore the possible effects of resveratrol in cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes – as well as in dermatological, neurological and psychological health. [2]

Currently, this supplement is not approved as a drug for the treatment of any medical conditions, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Vitis Vinifera Medicinal Uses

According to NMCD, Vitis vinifera extract is rated as Possibly Effective for chronic venous insufficiency and ocular stress.

This supplement has also been used for the following conditions, but there is currently insufficient evidence to rate its effectiveness for these uses: [2]

• Hypercholesterolemia (high serum cholesterol);
• NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease);
• Hypertension (high blood pressure);
• Age related cognitive impairment;
• PMS (premenstrual syndrome);
• Athletic performance;
• Metabolic syndrome;
• Diabetic retinopathy;
• Improving night vision;

Vitis vinifera extract has also been studied for its potential effects on preventing cardiovascular disease – as well as related conditions like varicose veins, atherosclerosis, hypertension (high blood pressure) and peripheral vascular disease. [2]

Grape extract supplements are also used for hemorrhoids, constipation, detoxification and wound healing.

Grape seed extract is used for ARMD (age related macular degeneration), purported anti-cancer effects, liver cirrhosis, slowing down tooth decay and preventing the breakdown of collagen in connective tissue. [2]

Grape leaf extract is purported to be useful for ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), heavy menstruation, canker sores and uterine hemorrhage.

Grape leaf is also infused in water and used intravaginally as a douching agent. [2]

Again, nearly all uses for grape extract require further research to evaluate efficacy. Most uses are based on tradition and anecdotal evidence and have not been validated by double-blind placebo controlled research studies.

Vitis Vinifera Extract for Skin

Vitis vinifera extracts are purported to be beneficial for skin health because of their antioxidant, chemopreventive and photoprotective effects. This ingredient is commonly included in cosmetic skin creams and moisturizes applied to the face.

Routine use of a standardized grape seed extract has inhibited skin cancer induced by excessive exposure to UV rays. [2]

Grape seed extract is believed to slow down oxidative damage to capillaries in the face. Further, this supplement is thought to inhibit peroxide formation in skin-based proteins.

Vitis vinifera seed extract also seems to support the activities of the skin’s natural antioxidants. Some of these antioxidant molecules include catalase, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, vitamin E and vitamin C. [2]

Some researchers believe that grape seed extract can stop the breakdown of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin in the skin. V. vinifera might help to limit capillary permeability and stabilize capillary structure. [2]

Grape seed extract is believed to help maintain the structure of capillaries, blood vessels and connective tissue by facilitating collagen cross-linking. By strengthening these tissues, skin conditions like varicose veins may be prevented. [2]

Grape seed extract applied in a topical cream is helpful for reducing swelling and redness of skin tissues. It is also useful for reducing the stinging, prickling and burning sensations associated with rosacea. [3]

More research is needed to understand how a Vitis vinifera extract can help to support e and/or maintain skin health. The extent it can help to prevent sun damage (photoaging), if any, is not known conclusively at this time.

Vitis Vinifera Extract Side Effects

According to the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Vitis vinifera extract is well tolerated when used as an oral supplement at the right dosage.

Most people experience no side effects when using this natural product. Others experience headache, dry mouth, heartburn, nausea, sore throat and/or abdominal pain, but only at rates comparable to placebo agents. [4]

Grapes have a laxative effect on some people. Excessive consumption of grapes, raisins and/or grape extract supplements might cause diarrhea. [2]

Vitis vinifera extracts are available in tablet, capsule and liquid forms. Although grapes make healthy snacks for children, grape extract supplements are not recommended for individuals under the age of 18 due to a lack of research. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid using grape extracts. [2]

Grape seed extract supplements can interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Some of these include antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs, and medications that are broken down by the liver like P450 1A2, 2C9 and 3A4 substrates. [2] [4]

You should discuss using a Vitis vinifera extract with your doctor before starting. Be sure to mention all medications and herbal supplements you take – as well as any pre-existing health conditions you have been diagnosed with.

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