Grape seed extract is a liquid or powdery substance that is derived from the small seeds of red grapes. Occasionally, grape seed extract may come from the skins of red grapes. Grape seed extract is a rich source of flavonoids, which are phytochemicals that contain antioxidant properties. Many people believe that these flavonoids are just as vital as vitamin C and vitamin E to maintaining health.

A supplement rich in cancer-fighting properties

Antioxidants are substances that help the body to remove free radicals, which are cancer causing agents. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that can contribute to the development of numerous harmful conditions in the body. This is the reason grape seed extract supplements that are rich in antioxidants have become popular.

The most valued of flavonoids found in grape seed extract are procyanidolic oligomers or proanthocyanidins (PCOs). Aside from their powerful antioxidant properties, PCOs are also reported to improve blood circulation. The PCOs from grape seed extract are believed to strengthen blood vessels, resulting in improved heart function and a reduction in cancer cells.

Health benefits of grape seed extract

European doctors often prescribe drugs containing PCOs for vascular disorders. Aside from grape seed extract, PCOs are also found in maritime pine. PCOs drawn from maritime pines have the same health benefits and therapeutic benefits as PCOs drawn from grape seed extract. However, maritime pines are more expensive and have a more limited supply than grape seeds.

Taking grape seed extract can help improve blood circulation, which help prevent leg cramps, diabetes complications, varicose veins, numbness in the extremities, muscular degeneration, cataracts and impotence. Because most of these health conditions more commonly occur and are severe among the elderly, grape seed extract can be especially beneficial to them.

Grape seed extract is also believed to partially block the release of prostaglandin, the substance responsible for causing pain and inflammation in disorders such as endometriosis.

Grape seed extract is commonly used as an ingredient in European facial creams. When used as a topical ointment, grape seed extract is believed to help maintain the skins elasticity.

The antioxidants in grape seed extract help protect muscle cells attacked by free radicals. As a result, those who wish to reduce the painful symptoms of fibromyalgia often take grape seed extract. Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is not yet known, its painful symptoms include chronic muscle pain and stiffness.

Countless studies have shown that antioxidants play some part in reducing the number of cancer cells in the body. Because of this, people who are at risk for cancer often use grape seed extract. It is believed that the antioxidants in grape seed extract neutralize cell mutations that lead to tumor formation. It is hoped that by taking grape seed extract, the progression of common cancers such as lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer and skin cancer can be halted.

Buying grape seed extract

Grape seed extract supplements are available in many forms and they are generally inexpensive. These supplements can be purchased in tablet, liquid or capsule form. The standardized formula for the grape seed extract should be labeled as 92% or 95% PCO.