Grape Seed Extract is a rich source of the substances known as bioflavonoids. The vivid colors of fruits and vegetables are due to the presence of this substance. In addition to this bioflavonoids exert a protective effect on the plant.
Bioflavonoids are also powerful antioxidants, helping the body to fight the damaging and aging effects of free radicals. (Free radicals are unstable molecules that are caused by toxins, cigarette smoke, auto exhaust and other pollutants in our environment. They set off chain reactions within the body causing severe damage to its tissues and have been linked to the aging process).
One of the most powerful bioflavonoids is leucoanthocyanin. Large concentrations of this bioflavonoid are found in the seeds of the purple grape, making grape seed extract an excellent antioxidant as well as a free radical scavenger.
Scientists have discovered that in addition to being a more powerful antioxidant than vitamins E and C, the biofavonoids in grape seed enhance the body's ability to absorb these vitamins and assist them to perform their many beneficial functions within the body.
In Western Europe, grape seed extract has been used for many years to treat circulatory disorders. The leucoanthoicyanins in grape seed extract have been demonstrated to improve the strength of the blood vessels, including varicose veins. They have also shown to suppress allergy symptoms by inhibiting the release of histamines into the tissues, to improve vision while helping prevent age-related and diabetic cataracts, and to maintain youthful skin tone by helping repair damaged collage.