Grape Seed Extract (Vitis Vinifera)

Vitis Vinifera has been traditionally used as a wound healer and has anti-inflammatory properties. It has since been used for its various properties that are thought to be beneficial, including as an anti-dandruff, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and UV absorber ingredient, and is therefore seen in a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products. It is indicated for conditions associated with venous circulatory problems such as haemorrhoids, chilblains, varicose veins, swollen or tired legs due to disorders of the capillary permeability. A recent study concluded that grape seed extract may be beneficial for individuals with or at risk of cardiovascular disease because it may have hypotensive and HR-lowering properties (1). Vitis vinifera contains polyphenols with an enhanced bioavailabity of bioflavonoids due to their small cell size- known as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). These properties render grape seed extract as a powerful antioxidant as it helps improve and preserve the skin’s elasticity by stabilizing collagen and elastin (2). Grape seed extract is effective for swollen legs or puffiness in the face because it enhances the membrane strength and tissue connection (3).