WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GRAPE SEED EXTRACT?
OPCs (Oligomeric Procyanidins) are a class of polyphenols. They are commonly found in grape seeds, berries, and other plants.
1. RADICAL SCAVENGING PROPERTIES
These polyphenols are believed to be effective in neutralizing singlet oxygen radicals that contribute to inflammations in your body.12 They also aid in improving Vitamin C activity, protecting you from bacteria, viruses and other chronic illnesses.13
2. REDUCES RISK OF CLOGGED ARTERIES
Although it’s not advocated by all health organizations, the famous “French Paradox” states how the French are protected from the risks of heart disease for drinking wine. However, it’s the flavonoids (the most common group of polyphenolic compounds) in grapes that positively affect your body and not the alcohol in wines. Flavonoids are believed to lower the bad cholesterol in your body.
3. HELPS CONTROL BLOOD PRESSURE
More research on grape seed extract’s medicinal properties keeps piling up as researchers discover ways to control hypertension. Studies revealed the relatively high concentrations of oligomeric procyanidins (class of flavonoids) in grape seed extract caused the relaxation of arteries, and blood vessels, thereby controlling blood pressure.
4. AIDS IN REDUCING EDEMA
Grape seed extract apparently aids in reducing the swelling (edema) caused by injuries and surgical operations. Studies revealed how patients who went through surgery and took grape seed extract showed very little signs of swelling. Researchers also found links between GSE and inhibiting the growth of tumors.
5. AIDS OTHER CONDITIONS
There are other ways in which grape seed extract can benefit you. If you have diabetes, you might find grape seed extract useful. It’s purported to aid in controlling blood sugar levels. Other conditions it may be helpful in are hemorrhoids and more.
6. ANTI-AGING
Did you know that among all the benefits above, grape seed extract also improves the health of your skin? It has light, small molecules that are easily absorbed by the skin.That’s right: topical application of grape seed extract allows it to take effect quickly and efficiently. GSE acts as an alpha hydroxy acid (compounds used in skincare preparations due to its exfoliating properties), so it can improve your skin in various ways.
7. IMPROVES SKIN’S ELASTICITY
Polyphenols are also known to be excellent binders of collagen fibers, improving the condition of connective tissues, and overall maintaining the elasticity of your skin, joints, arteries, and other connective tissues.
8. BOOSTS WOUND HEALING
The alpha hydroxy acid in grape seed extract improves the moisture barrier of your skin cells. This helps cells to retain moisture for a fresh, dewy appearance. Consequently, applying topical cream with GSE makes the wounds heal faster and scars can be reduced.
9. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY, ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIFUNGAL PROPERTIES
The seeds also contains a compound called resveratrol.Resveratrol is praised for its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes GSE a great help in reducing swelling caused by dermatitis, infections, cuts, and excessive exposure to the sun’s rays. Additionally, it exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties.