Common Names: Grape seed extract

Scientific Name: Vitis vinifera

Background

• Derived from the seeds of grapes used in winemaking, grape seed extract is widely used as a supplement. It is often advertised for benefits such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, and is also used in topical applications for wound care and oral health.

• The extract is high in proanthocyanidins, compounds known for their potential positive health effects.

How Much Do We Know?

• There has been moderate research into how grape seed extract may benefit people with high cholesterol and elevated blood pressure. However, its effectiveness on other health issues remains largely unknown due to limited studies.

What Have We Learned?

• A 2020 analysis reviewing 11 clinical trials with 536 participants found that grape seed extract may help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. However, it did not significantly influence total cholesterol or HDL cholesterol. These findings are not conclusive due to small sample sizes and variations across studies.

• A 2022 review involving 19 studies with 1,080 participants concluded that grape seed extract could reduce diastolic blood pressure. However, it had little effect on systolic pressure. Results varied based on dosage, treatment duration, and participant demographics.

• Animal and lab studies indicate that applying grape seed extract to the skin might support the healing of wounds. Still, limited human studies make it difficult to confirm this benefit.

• Research in laboratory settings suggests that grape seed extract may help protect teeth from decay when used in mouth rinses. More human studies are needed to fully understand these effects.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Most people tolerate grape seed extract well when taken by mouth or applied to the skin.

• If you're taking medication, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before using grape seed extract, as it might interact with your medicine.

• There is limited information about the safety of grape seed extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so caution is advised.

Keep in Mind

• Be proactive in managing your health. Discuss any complementary approaches you consider using with your healthcare providers to ensure safe and informed decisions.

• The regulation of herbal supplements depends on how they are used and applied. Many are marketed as dietary supplements, which are not as heavily regulated as prescription drugs.

• Unlike medications, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before being sold. However, the FDA can step in if concerns about safety arise. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring safety and appropriate product labeling before release.

For More Information

• Guidance on the Wise Use of Dietary Supplements

• Understanding Medication and Supplement Interactions

• Interpreting Scientific Research Articles

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse offers resources and information on integrative and complementary health practices. While it can provide factual material, it does not offer medical diagnoses or referrals.

Phone (U.S.): 1-888-644-6226

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PubMed®

Maintained by the National Library of Medicine, PubMed® is a searchable database containing summaries and details from medical and scientific journals.

Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), NIH

The ODS aims to improve public knowledge about supplements by evaluating research, supporting studies, and offering educational materials. Their resources include factsheets and research summaries on individual supplements.

Key References

• Anjom-Shoae J, et al. Examining the impact of grape seed extract on cholesterol profiles: A systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Nutrition. 2020;124(2):121-134.

• Foshati S, et al. Effects of grape seed extract on vascular function and cardiovascular metrics. Pharmacological Research. 2022;175:105905.

• García-Manríquez N, et al. Reviewing the anticavity properties of berries. Nutrition Reviews. 2024;82(3):302-317.

• Gupta M, et al. Review of the health-promoting properties of grape seed extract. Journal of Food Science and Technology. 2020;57(4):1205-1215.

• Mancini M, et al. Role of grape seed compounds in reducing inflammation and cancer risk. Current Nutrition Reports. 2023;12:141-150.

• Sochorova L, et al. Studying the biological effects of grape seed and skin extracts. Molecules. 2020;25(22):5311.

This work is in the public domain and can be freely shared.

This resource is provided by NCCIH for educational purposes and is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Please consult health providers for personal care decisions. Mention of any product or therapy does not indicate endorsement by NCCIH.