Grape Skin Extract Benefits: The Science of Grapes

You may have heard red wine is healthy. Although experts debate that, nobody debates the age defying properties of the grapes it is made from. Grapes, especially red grapes, are one of the fruit world’s richest sources of phytochemicals (see Why Nutraceuticals Matter), including the standout molecule resveratrol, which implies eating them outright should be enough. Unfortunately, it is not that simple. Up to 70% of a grape’s phytochemicals are in its seeds, which people spit out. Most of the rest are in the grape skins and stems. Even if you are organised enough to buy a bunch a day, eating grapes only delivers a fraction of their benefit.

However, winemakers can still help. Every year, vineyards press millions of tons of grapes, and throw away the skins and seeds. In the last two decades, the health potential of this residue has been recognised. Today, some of the best is freeze dried and turned into dietary supplements for health benefits.

Such extracts are potent scavengers of free radicals; they up-regulate the antioxidant defence system, and inhibit the enzymes that generate free radicals in the first place. These extracts are a rich source of phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, gallic acid, and proanthocyanidin extract, which contribute to their powerful antioxidants and beneficial effects. They exhibit strong antioxidant properties and antioxidant activity, helping to protect against oxidative stress and tissue damage associated with chronic diseases. They also contain vitamin C, which further enhances their antioxidant properties. Scientific research has shown that grape seed and skin extracts have anti inflammatory effects and play a role in supporting heart health by improving blood flow and blood circulation, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce high blood pressure. In the context of cardiovascular health, grape extracts can help manage risk factors such as high cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood clots, and may benefit those at elevated risk of heart disease. These extracts have also demonstrated blood thinning effects, the ability to improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of blood clots. Laboratory studies, including those on rat liver and the GSE group, have shown that grape seed extract provides a protective effect and protective effects in these models, including the ability to significantly reduce markers of oxidative stress and tissue damage. Grape seed extract exerts its effects in a dose dependent manner, with higher doses leading to more pronounced positive effects and beneficial effects. Additionally, grape seed extract has been linked to wound healing, collagen production, bone formation, improved bone density, and the potential to increase bone density, as supported by relevant scientific findings. There is also evidence for positive effects on cognitive function, neurodegenerative diseases, and macular degeneration. The composition of these extracts includes grape seed proanthocyanidins and grape seed proanthocyanidin extract, which are key to their health-promoting properties. Further, grape seed oil contains beneficial compounds that contribute to these effects.

Each capsule of LifeGuard Essentials contains 75 milligrams of grape seed extract, concentrated down from 9 grams of seeds, and 75 milligrams of red grape skin extract, concentrated from 1.5 grams of skins. It is the perfect compromise: the goodness of skin and seeds, without a wine glass.

Scientific research and further research are ongoing to confirm the efficacy and safety of grape seed extract, with a focus on understanding molecular characterization and mechanisms such as how GSE inhibits the growth of tumor cells, including in models of chemically induced liver cancer. Grape seed and skin extracts are widely used as dietary supplements and are formulated to deliver these health benefits. The origin of these bioactive compounds is the grape skins and red grapes themselves. In cardiovascular health, grape seed extract may help prevent oxidized ldl and ldl oxidation, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. However, it is important to be aware of potential adverse effects from high doses or long-term use, so careful supplementation is advised.

Grapeseed Oil and Its Uses

Grapeseed oil – derived from those tiny seeds tucked away in vitis vinifera grapes – is quite simply one of the most versatile oils you can get your hands on, and it's celebrated for good reason! Rich in omega chain fatty acids (especially linoleic acid), this heart-healthy choice supports your overall wellness in ways that many of us are only just beginning to appreciate. The high content of vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that packs a real punch – further enhances its appeal for those of us seeking to nourish our bodies both inside and out.

When it comes to the kitchen, grapeseed oil's light, neutral flavor and impressive high smoke point make it an absolute winner for a variety of culinary adventures – from sautéing and stir-frying to baking and salad dressings. It's that simple! The delicate taste allows the natural flavors of your foods to truly shine through, while those healthy fatty acids contribute to what we all know is essential: a balanced diet that actually works for your body.

But here's where it gets really interesting – beyond cooking, grapeseed oil has found its way into cosmetics and skincare, and for very good reason. The lightweight texture and rich vitamin E content make it a firm favorite for moisturizing skin, supporting skin health, and promoting that radiant skin tone we're all after. Those essential fatty acids? They help maintain your skin's natural barrier, making grapeseed oil a valuable extra ingredient in creams, serums, and massage oils that actually deliver results.

Whether you're using it as a dietary supplement or a topical treatment, grapeseed oil quite simply harnesses the power of grape seeds to deliver benefits that many of us are looking for – making it a smart addition to both your kitchen and your skincare routine. For those of us interested in exploring all available opportunities to 'tip the scales' in our favor, this versatile oil offers a natural way to make better choices for our long-term health!