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OPC - The healthy grape seed extract

Information, effects, deficiency, dosage, side effects

24 Feb 2022
OPC - The healthy grape seed extract

With OPC, nature is giving us a vital substance that can positively influence our health, vitality and even our appearance. That is why more and more doctors and nutritionists are recommending taking OPC grape seed extract to stay young, beautiful and healthy. OPC is also called cosmetics from the inside because it increases the collagen and elastin production of the skin.

OPC an abbreviation for oligomeric proanthocyanidins are natural active substances found in plants that belong to the group of flavanols, a subgroup of polyphenols.

Proanthocyanidins come in many different fruits, nuts and plants, such as Green tea before, and have a wide range of effects in the body.



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OPC - The healthy grape seed extract

What is OPC?

OPCs (oligomeric procyanidins) are a class of polyphenols. They are generally found in grape seeds, berries and other plants. Many doctors and nutritionists say that polyphenols are one of the most important vital substances that the body needs.

Medical scientists continue to provide evidence that polyphenols, including OPC, are responsible for their antioxidant properties because they counteract free radical damage to the body's cells.

1. Antioxidant effect

These polyphenols are believed to be effective in neutralizing singlet oxygen radicals that contribute to inflammation in the body. They also help to improve vitamin C activity and protect against bacteria, viruses and various chronic diseases.

2. Reduced risk of artery calcification

Although not all health organizations advocate this, the famous 'French paradox' claims that French people are protected from heart disease by drinking wine.

However, the flavonoids (the most common group of polyphenols) in grapes are the ingredients that have a positive effect on the body and not the alcohol content of the wine. Flavonoids are believed to lower bad cholesterol in the body.

3. Control of blood pressure

There is increasing research into the medical properties of OPC, and scientists are using it to find ways to control high blood pressure. Studies have shown that the relatively high concentration of OPC (oligomeric procyanidins) relaxes the arteries and blood vessels and that this can be used to control blood pressure.

4. Reduction of edemas

OPC appears to help reduce swelling (edema) caused by injuries and surgery. Studies have shown that patients who took OPC after surgery showed very little evidence of swelling.

Scientists also found a link between OPC and the suppression of tumor growth.

5. Help with other diseases

There are other advantages of the OPC. OPC is extremely effective in diabetes. It is said to help control blood sugar levels. It can also be helpful for hemorrhoids and other diseases.

6. Improve the elasticity of the skin

Polyphenols are also known as an excellent binding agent for collagen fibers, which strengthens the connective tissue and generally helps to maintain the elasticity of the skin, and it also serves to strengthen the connective tissue, the joints, arteries and other tissue forms.

7. Promote wound healing

The alpha hydroxy acid in the OPC improves the moisture barrier of the skin cells. This maintains moisture for a fresh and radiant look. Consequently, applying a skin cream with OPC ensures faster wound healing and smaller scars.

8. Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-mycotic properties

The kernels also contain an active ingredient called resveratrol. Resveratrol is praised for its anti-inflammatory properties, making OPC very helpful in reducing dermatitis, infections, cuts and excessive exposure to sunlight. The kernels also have antibacterial and anti-mycotic properties.

Effect of OPC grape seed extract

The polyphenols in the OPC grape seed extract, especially proanthocyanidin, have been shown to have a number of health benefits. By increasing the levels of antioxidants in the bloodstream and in the body, OPC helps counteract the harmful effects of free radicals.

Proanthocyanidin is a very effective antioxidant that protects against free radicals as well as against reactive oxygen species by protecting the body from free radical damage such as sun exposure, pollution and stress. Standardized OPC has also shown that there are positive effects in treating a range of health problems associated with free radical damage.

Research has shown that OPC has the following health benefits:

  • Protects the heart tissue and the cardiovascular system
  • Fights the harmful effects of diabetes
  • Prevents bacterial and viral infections
  • Reduces the development of various tumors
  • Protects against harmful effects of UV radiation
  • Reduces signs of aging by protecting collagen and elastin
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Improves cholesterol levels
  • Accelerates fat metabolism
  • Protects against tooth decay
  • Protects the nerve cells
  • Can be used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure)

Clinical studies show the effects of OPC

There are numerous clinical studies on the OPC with a wide range of study arrangements. The following are examples of the benefits shown in the following areas:

Cardiovascular

A study showed that active components in the OPC help relax blood vessels. Scientists concluded that these compounds in the OPC 'either individually, or in the form of wine, juices, or nutritional supplements, are conducive to preventing or treating cardiovascular diseases.'

Other studies have found that OPC helps relax the circulatory system and regulate blood pressure. Further studies showed that OPC can protect heart tissue from toxins and even lead exposure.

The antioxidant properties of OPC are also known to have a protective effect on the heart and to prevent the harmful effects of various heart diseases. One study says that 'grape seed polyphenols can protect against heart cell apoptosis by delivering endogenous antioxidant enzymes.'

Diabetes

One study showed that OPC mitigated certain forms of heart damage in animals with diabetes. The study 'could bring a new appreciation of natural medicine to the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.' In fact, OPC can benefit everyone by reducing oxidative damage to the entire cardiovascular system (especially those with high blood sugar levels).

Fat and cholesterol

OPC has been shown to help reduce stored fat (increasing lipolysis) and food intake. A study showed that OPC was able to reduce food intake by four percent in overweight people.

The study leaders concluded that 'grape seeds reduce the 24-hour food intake in normal to overweight people without diet restrictions and can therefore play a significant role in controlling body weight.'

An animal study showed that procyanidins from grape seeds reduced plasma triglycerides, free fatty acids, apolipoprotein B (apoB), LDL cholesterol and other types of cholesterol while slightly increasing HDL cholesterol.

Another study showed that 'oral ingestion of grape seed procyanidin extract drastically lowers the plasma levels of triglycerides and apolipoprotein B.' Another study concluded that in people with high cholesterol, 'a combination of chromium and OPC can significantly lower the total cholesterol and LDL levels '.

Inflammation

Another study was conducted with OPC to test the effect on inflammation markers in rats on a high-fat diet.

The results showed that the procyanidins of grape seeds have a beneficial effect on low-inflammatory diseases by suppressing certain inflammation-promoting proteins and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Another study also showed the anti-inflammatory properties of grape seed procyanidins and concluded that they have potential health benefits in certain inflammatory diseases.

Oral hygiene

Harmful bacteria in the mouth can cause tooth decay and various oral diseases. In addition, toxins can enter the bloodstream, which may even damage the cardiovascular system.

A study showed that OPC reduces the damage caused by these bacterial toxins, and indicated that grape seed proanthocyanidins 'have strong antioxidant properties that should be considered as a potential ingredient in preventing periodontal disease.'

Injuries

The cutaneous application of OPC has been shown to heal injuries faster and more completely, including through improved cell density and numerous other mechanisms that accelerate wound contraction and wound closure.

Overall, 'the study provides lasting evidence that the cutaneous use of grape seed proanthycyanidine extract is a feasible and productive method to support the healing process of skin injuries.'

Melasma (Chloasma)

A study conducted in Japan shows that oral OPC intake 'is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation in women with chloasma.' The positive effect is seen after six months. The study also showed that 'OPC over five months could prevent chloasma from worsening before the summer period.'

Protection from sun exposure and light-related skin aging

OPC has been shown to fight oxidative stress and protect the body's important natural antioxidants.

It was found that mice exposed to UVB light significantly reduced the development of tumors after they were given an OPC supplement.

The study leader concludes that OPC inhibits the process of skin aging and light-related skin aging. Dr. Katiyar says: 'The light-induced skin aging component is responsible for the development of wrinkles, blotchy hyperpigmentation and depigmentation in areas exposed to the sun, as well as for coarser, rough skin, little elasticity and the tendency to bruise.

Polyphenols (including the polyphenols in OPC) have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Based on these characteristics, it has been proven that polyphenols prevent, reverse or slow down the risk of skin cancer caused by UV radiation. '

A study in the journal 'Journal of Medicinal Food' summarizes the numerous health-promoting effects of OPC that have so far been investigated.

In general, OPC is an extremely effective antioxidant with properties that have been proven to protect the body from diseases and an early aging process. Scientists summarize the remarkable effectiveness and properties of OPC as follows: 'Scientific studies have shown that the antioxidant effect of proanthocyanidins is 20 times greater than that of vitamin E and 50 times greater than that of vitamin C.

Extensive research shows that OPC is beneficial in many areas of health due to its antioxidant ability to combine with collagen, and supports youthful skin, healthy cells, resilience and flexibility.

Other studies have shown that proanthocyanidins help protect the body from sun damage, improve eyesight, improve the flexibility of joints, arteries and connective tissue (such as that of the heart) and improve blood circulation by strengthening the capillaries, arteries and of the veins to optimize. '

Another study showed that oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) from grape seeds are extremely effective antioxidants that effectively protect skin cells from oxidative stress; Using a number of different mechanisms, the scientists demonstrated that OPCs have the potential to protect human melanocytes from UV radiation and to inhibit skin damage and melanogenesis.

Immunosuppression caused by ultraviolet radiation has been found to be related to the risk of developing skin cancer. In this study, the administration of grape seed proanthocyanidins significantly inhibited the development of skin cancer caused by UV radiation and caused less immunosuppression.

Scientists conclude that this finding 'has important implications for the use of OPC as a dietary supplement for chemo-prevention in immunosuppression caused by ultraviolet radiation as well as in photocarcinogenesis.'

The results of another study indicate that 'grape seed proanthocyanidins could help alleviate human skin conditions caused by ultraviolet radiation and oxidative stress.'

Further research shows that OPC reduces the formation of skin sunburn cells and shows that OPC 'could be a potential chemo-preventive agent to reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis caused by multiple doses of UVB on the skin.'

In addition, the results of another study 'clearly indicate that oral grape seed proanthocyanidins inhibit mouse photocarcinogenesis by suppressing UVB-related inflammation and the mediators of inflammation.'

OPC side effects and dosage

Studies on OPC have shown the effectiveness of a wide range of doses.

OPC is usually taken in capsules or as tablets, which are available in dosages between 50 to 300 milligrams. They are used as a single extract or in combination with other ingredients, e.g. Vitamin C or other anti-aging ingredients are offered.

Human studies have shown no toxicity from OPC grape seed extract in a dose of 200-400 mg daily.

People with a grape allergy should not take an OPC extract. Since proanthocyanidins can reduce platelet adhesion, OPC can act as a blood thinner (clotting time is prolonged). Although cardio-protective benefits come with it, people taking blood thinners should consult their doctor about possible side effects.

Interactions between OPC and other nutritional supplements and medications have not been studied in detail.

The best OPC food supplement

To benefit from all the advantages of OPC, follow these guidelines:

  1. If you buy OPC capsules, read the description carefully and make sure that it is a standardized, high quality OPC grape seed extract. It is crucial that the OPC extract is standardized to total polyphenols and oligomeric proanthocyanidins. This ensures that the OPC extract can actually develop its effect.
  2. Take OPC with vitamins or other nutritional supplements, as these mutually reinforce their effects. The situation is similar with vitamin E. Vitamin E is also healthy, and taking OPC, Vitamin C and Vitamin E further enhances the benefits of looking better.
  3. The recommended daily dose of OPC for adults is 150 to 300 milligrams. Take this amount regularly so that your body can get used to the even intake.

OPC is 100 percent natural and risk-free. This is good news for its health and beauty benefits. Nowadays, where more and more people are looking for natural treatment and prevention methods, OPC is more popular than ever.

OPC lowers blood pressure and promotes blood circulation

In a study with persons who have an above-average risk of vascular diseases, a blood vessel-related vasodilation could be achieved using OPC.

Consuming fruit juice containing OPC lowered blood pressure in people at risk of high blood pressure.

OPC has also been able to lower the blood pressure of people affected by the metabolic syndrome.

There is evidence that OPC reduces certain factors (other than high blood pressure) that lead to heart diseases, such as the reduction of oxidized LDL, which helps prevent arteriosclerosis and promotes antioxidants that prevent the damage of blood vessels. <.p>

OPC has a nootropic and stress-relieving effect

In an attempt to force rats to swim, OPC prevented the adrenaline (vanillin-mandelic acid) and urinary ascorbic acid markers from falling (both acids decrease when stressed). There was no effect on these markers in healthy rats.

In an animal experiment to avoid negative stimuli, rats given the extract learned to avoid the negative stimulus much faster. In aged rats, OPC was able to improve performance in a test to increase spatial memory.

OPC protects cognitive functions

OPC appears to reduce the accumulation of brain amyloid cells, improve cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's in rats.

In a study in female rats, OPC was able to reduce unwanted compounds (hydrogen peroxide, cell damage, and blood sugar) while increasing useful components in the hippocampus. The general cognitive skills improved, which shows that OPC can counteract the loss of cognitive skills in the aging process.

At high nitric oxide (NO) production, OPC protected the astroglia cells (maintained the glutathione reserves and protected against damage caused by H2O2).

OPC can protect the stomach and relieve irritable bowel syndrome (RDS)

A study of RDS in rats showed that OPC significantly reduced many negative symptoms of RDS. The extract was also able to improve the health of the intestine (by increasing the density of the goblet cells and lowering Claudin 2, TNF-α, IL1B and IL-6).

OPC restored the intestinal flora in rats with RDS. It increased the bacteria in healthy and sick rats and restored the number of lactic acid bacteria.

Low dose OPC (around 250 milligrams) can prevent stomach ulcers. One study showed that OPC inhibits the growth of cancer cells in the stomach.

OPC increases the tight junction proteins in healthy rats and can also reduce the markers for intestinal inflammation (calprotectin).

OPC grape seed extract relieves inflammation

  • In LPS (lipopolysaccharide) -stimulated macrophages, OPC effectively inhibited an inflammatory reaction (inhibition of nitric oxide production, NF-kB translocation, inhibition of PGE2 and iNOS).
  • In rats that received high-fat food, OPC reduced the blood values of CRP (C reactive protein) and reduced inflammation markers in white adipose tissue (TNF-α, IL-6).
  • In human LPS-stimulated macrophages, OPC inhibited the secretion of inflammatory markers (MMP 1, 3, 7, 8, 9, 13, NF-kB, p65, AP-1).
  • In LPS-stimulated macrophages, OPC permanently lowered several inflammation markers (nitrogen oxide, ROS, iNOS).
  • In astrocytes, OPC was able to increase the levels of the (sometimes) useful cytokine (IL-6). In neuronal cells confronted with H2O2, IL-6 caused anti-inflammatory reactions.
  • In rats receiving a high dose of LPS, OPC was able to reduce the inflammatory response by reducing some components of the inflammation (NOx, IL-6, iNOS, and lowering the GSSG / total glutathione ratio).

OPC can alleviate symptoms of osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis

  • In rats with rheumatoid arthritis, OPC reduced many negative changes (synovial inflammation, cartilage and bone wear, osteoclast activity, TNF-α, IL-17, 8-isoprostane, type 2 collagen IGG2A).
  • In mice with autoimmune arthritis, OPC reduced several inflammatory cytokines (IL-21, IL-22, IL-26, Il-17) and increased the beneficial Foxp3 (type 2 collagen-reactive TReg cells).
  • OPC lowered the markers for bone wear (TRAP-positive cells and osteaclast activity) and increased the proportion of mature bone formation components (osteoblasts).
  • In rats with rheumatoid arthritis, OPC significantly reduced inflammation markers (T cells, GITR expression cells, Th1 cytokines, MCP-1, MIP-2, ICAM-1) and stimulated the production of Th2 cytokines and Tregs.
  • In rats with osteoarthritis, OPC was able to reduce several pain indices and numerous inflammation markers (MMP-13, IL-1B, nitrotyrosine, formation of osteophytes, subchondral bone fractures).

OPC can relieve asthma and pneumonia and has anti-allergenic properties

  • In rats with asthma, OPC was able to significantly reduce respiratory hyper-responsiveness, reduce inflammation of the bronchoalveolar lavage and lungs, and decrease several cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and eotaxin-1).
  • In mast cells, OPC was able to inhibit the elimination of many inflammatory components (histamine and hexosaminidase) triggered by IgE.
  • In mice with pleurisy, OPC reduced tissue damage and inflammation markers (ICAM-1, IFN-y, IL-6, IL-17A, IL-1B, TNF-α, GITR and MCP-1). OPC reversed the degradation process of some beneficial markers (TGF-B1, IL-10, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13).

OPC and cancer

  • A cell study showed that OPC inhibits the spread (proliferation) of prostate cancer cells and causes the cancer cells to die.
  • A study of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma showed that OPC destroyed the damaged DNA and selectively caused cell death in cancer cells.
  • A study in rats found that OPC can protect against skin cancer caused by UV radiation (skin cancer).
  • In a study with rats on breast cancer, OPC was able to reduce tumor spread by 50 percent. The reduction was dependent on the form of food in which the extract was administered.
  • In mice with colon cancer, OPC reduced the tumor weight by 44 percent at a dose of 200 milligrams per kilo (dosage in humans: 1216 milligrams for a person with 75 kilos).
  • OPC enhanced the effects of the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. The immune response decreased by doxorubicin was reversed by the OPC.
  • In rats with intestinal disorders due to chemotherapy (mucositis), OPC was able to reduce the histological damage, depending on the dosage, and normalize many of the negative markers to some extent.

OPC and the metabolic syndrome

  • In rats that received high-fat food, OPC was able to lower blood lipid levels and fat accumulation, especially in white adipose tissue.
  • In rats that received high-fat food, OPC was able to lower the increased triglycerides (dyslipidemia), probably by suppressing the production of fat in the liver.
  • OPC has been able to inhibit lipase activity in test tubes and can therefore be useful in reducing free fatty acids and fat accumulation in adipose tissue.

OPC has antibacterial properties

OPC was able to inhibit the activity of numerous bacteria in vitro (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The extract was more effective against gram-positive than gram-negative bacteria.

OPC increases the activity of antioxidants

  • One study showed that taking 300 milligrams of OPC for five days increased the activity of antioxidants in the blood.
  • OPC had a higher result than vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene in protecting the brain and liver against cell and DNA damage caused by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA).
  • Consistent with its antioxidant activity, OPC protected by an increase in an anti-propoptotic gene (Bcl-Xl) in a Tylenol test in rats with liver damage.
  • In rats exposed to X-rays, OPC was able to maintain the levels of several healing markers (GSH, retinol, beta-carotene and caeruloplasmin). The level of inflammation markers (MDA and nitrite) was lower in rats receiving the extract.

OPC protects the male reproductive system

Rats given ammonium chloride, the OPC inhibited degenerative changes in the testicles.

In an experiment with rats with testicular torsion (which is relatively common in humans), OPC reversed the increase in various major inflammatory markers (malondialdehyde, eNOS and apoptosis).

OPC protects the skin

In mice exposed to UVB radiation, OPC inhibited the production of several inflammatory markers (inflammatory leucocytes, myeloperoxidase, COX-2, PGE2, cyclin D1, TNF-α, IL-1B, IL-6, PCNA), both in the skin as well as skin tumors.

OPC reduces swelling

A study of relatively healthy Japanese women with sedentary activity showed that the extract reduced leg swelling (due to long, sedentary work).

OPC inhibits the production of nitric oxide (NO) in macrophages. This reduces swelling, for example after an operation or an injury. Women who took OPC orally for six months had less pain and swelling (edema) after breast cancer radiation treatment than those who received a placebo.

OPC can reduce swelling caused by antigens.

OPC grape seed extract and diabetes

  • Male rats that received OPC and were physically active showed improvements in their fat profile, weight loss, brachycardia and low blood pressure.
  • OPC has been shown to improve oxidative damage (the balance between free radicals and the body's ability to fight it) and general antioxidant levels in rats with diabetes due to its antioxidant ability.
  • Another study in rats with diabetes showed that OPC can effectively prevent heart damage and heart problems caused by diabetes.
  • Mice with diabetes have been shown that OPC has anti-inflammatory properties and can effectively prevent pancreatic damage caused by inflammation.
  • Rats with diabetes and with bladder disorders due to diabetes showed improved bladder function. In addition, oxidative damage and cell death in the bladder decreased and there was an increase in nerve growth in the bladder.
  • OPC prevents the absorption of carbohydrates by inhibiting two key markers - alpha amylase and alpha glycosidase.
  • In rats fed a high-fructose diet, OPC protected against insulin and fructose peaks, which usually follow a glucose load test. Rats that received the extract also showed higher levels of liver antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase).
  • In the hippocampus (memory center) of rats with diabetes, OPC reduced the production of inflammation markers (RAGE and NF-kB).
  • In rats with diabetes, OPC was able to protect nerves from oxidative damage, demyelination, and improve the conductivity of the nerves.
  • A study in rats showed that OPC helped protect pancreatic cells with high levels of fat in the blood. Pancreatic cells produce insulin, which is used to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
  • There is also evidence that OPC promotes insulin sensitivity and increases its effectiveness. These studies suggest that OPC grape seed extract can help with diabetes.

OPC grape seed extract protects the heart

  • In rabbits receiving cholesterol, OPC significantly prevented hardening of the arteries in the aorta.
  • OPC in test tubes was able to reduce several thrombosis markers. It reduced the weight and length of the thrombus and protected the endothelium.
  • In hamsters fed cholesterol, OPC reduced arterial hardening by 34 percent and blood cholesterol by 11 percent. This was done through a process that was outside the antioxidant function.
  • With the restriction of blood supply (ischemia) in rat hearts, OPC grape seed extract was able to reduce the formation of free radicals, cardiac fibrillation and tachycardia and improve the blood supply after surgery.
    • OPC interacts with cytochrome P450

    • OPC inhibits CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 in very low concentrations and this can increase the absorption and effectiveness of some pharmaceuticals and herbs.
    • OPC has a kidney-protecting effect

    • In a kidney toxicity study with rats, OPC was able to reduce various harmful and inflammatory markers (creatinine, urea, uric acid, IL-1B, TNF-α, MCP-1, TG, LDL) and an increase in blood levels of HDL, NO and cGMP cause.
    • In a study of kidney damage caused by cadmium, OPC was able to reduce the markers for increasing damage (fat peroxidation, kidney apoptosis).
    • OPC grape seed extract strengthens bone density

    • In rats, one study showed that calcium and OPC supplements improved bone formation and strength.
    • OPC can help with oral health

    • A cell study concluded that OPC is effective in re-mineralizing teeth, a process used to prevent or reverse premature tooth decay.
    • The test persons rinsed their teeth with a solution of OPC for eight days, and the results showed that the mineralization of their teeth was more pronounced than in the control groups.
    • Where does the OPC extract come from?

    • Although you are likely to buy seedless grapes, the seeds are indeed extremely sought after in the beauty and health sectors. Why? OPC offers many effective health benefits. Therefore, it can be found in nutritional supplements as well as in skin care and beauty products.
    • What is so great about these tiny cores? One word is enough to explain it - proanthocyanidins, a type of polyphenol with amazing antioxidant properties. OPC is full of it.
    • The seeds and skins of the grapes are a by-product of wine production and have so far been used primarily as fertilizer. Then it turned out that the grape seeds are very valuable for our health. Therefore, high-quality grape seeds are in great demand today to obtain OPC extracts.
    • Grapes, also known as 'Vitis Vinifera' in Latin, are a fruit berry form of the vine. Like any type of vine (a vine), grapevines have long, woody stems and are rooted in the ground. They have the amazing ability to fight their way up by clinging to everything they find just to get into sunlit areas.
    • The fruits are oval berries that darken as they ripen. Grapes can be white, green or red, and sometimes even black. Because they usually thrive in humid, temperate, or tropical climates, they are native to Asia and the Caspian Sea. With the popularity of wine, viticulture has expanded to many other parts of the world.
    • This fruit has been useful to humans since the Neolithic. Vines were grown because of the nutritious and medicinal properties of the grapes. In ancient Greece wine was made from the grapes, which was praised for its healing properties.
    • European healers took the juice from the vine to use to heal skin and eye infections. Hemorrhoids, pain and inflammation were treated with the leaves of the vine.
    • European healers also used the unripe grapes to heal a sore throat; Constipation and excessive thirst were treated with dried grapes (raisins) and water.
    • What makes OPC so healthy?

    • OPC is composed of a complex mixture of flavonoids and phenolic procyanidins. These substances are also contained in the skin and juice of fruit.
    • The active ingredients of the extract - mainly polyphenols or OPCs (oligomeric procyanidins) - are the commercial reason for extracting grape seeds. Proanthocyanidins and catechins are highly effective grape seed antioxidants that are believed to be 20 times more potent than vitamin E and 50 times more potent than vitamin C.
    • Active ingredients in the grape seed extract

    • Grapes have been cultivated and consumed for a long time. But grapes, along with other parts of the Vitis vinifera plant, such as the leaves and juice of the vine, have also been used in traditional European treatments for thousands of years.
    • The healing powers of grapes and wine had been recognized by the Egyptians and ancient Greeks, and grapes and vines were used to treat various symptoms such as inflammation, pain, constipation, infections and even various diseases.
    • Today OPC is mainly made from the seeds of the grapes. OPC has many antioxidant agents, and these antioxidants have been studied for various therapeutic effects. The predominant class of molecules in the OPC grape seed extract are polyphenols.
    • Polyphenols are a broad group of substances found in plants. These include tannins, lignin, flavonoids such as quercetin (a flavonol found in many fruits and vegetables) and EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a catechin found in green tea), cinnamic acids such as caffeic acid (found in coffee and other plants) contained), coumarin and stilbenes as in resveratrol (present in grapes and also in other berries).
    • More specifically, OPC contains a type of polyphenol called oligomeric proanthocyanidin (OPC), which is present in higher concentrations than any other. OPC is an extremely potent antioxidant that is responsible for most of the beneficial therapeutic effects of OPC.
    • Proanthocyanidins can also be found in other common foods and spices such as fruits and especially berries, in nuts, cinnamon, cocoa and tea (EGCG is also a proanthocyanidin).
    • As with these other foods, proanthocyanidins are found in grape skins and juice, but OPC extract contains a much higher concentration.
    • OPC grape seed extract summary

    • OPC grape seed extract contains health-promoting agents called polyphenols, including an extremely effective antioxidant called proanthocyanidin. To date, research has shown a number of advantages of the OPC, some of which can be attributed to its strong antioxidant properties.
    • In particular, the results show that OPC is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of many different diseases. These include areas for protecting the heart, reducing inflammation, preventing sun damage and aging of the skin, fat metabolism and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
    • Ongoing research will undoubtedly reveal further health benefits of OPC grape seed extract.

 


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