Grape seed extract facts for kids
Grape seed extract comes from the seeds of whole grapes. It is made in factories. This extract has special plant compounds called proanthocyanidins. These compounds are what make grape seed extract special.
The quality of grape seed extract is often checked by how much of a substance called procyanidins it contains. Procyanidins are made from proanthocyanidins. Most good quality grape seed extract has about 95% procyanidins. But the strength can be different in various products.
Have you ever eaten something that makes your mouth feel dry or puckered? This feeling is called astringency. It can happen when you eat foods or drinks that have a lot of procyanidins.
How it's Made
The way grape seed extract is made affects what it's like. It also depends on how the grapes were grown. A common way to get the extract is by using special liquids called solvents. These solvents help pull the good parts out of the grape seeds.
Some other ways use hot water. But these methods are not as good at getting a lot of the extract. Scientists use special tests to make sure the extract is pure and has the right ingredients.
What Research Says
Scientists have studied grape seed extract to see what it does. One big review looked at 16 different studies. It found that grape seed extract might help lower blood pressure. This was seen in people under 50 who were overweight and had certain health issues. The effect was small, though.
Another review also found that it might lower blood pressure and heart rate. But it did not seem to change blood fats or other body markers.
The US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says that taking grape seed extract by mouth is usually safe. This was true for people who took it for up to 14 weeks.
Some people might have side effects. These can include an itchy scalp, feeling dizzy, headaches, or feeling sick to their stomach. Grape seed extract is sold as a dietary supplement. Some people claim it has many health benefits. However, there is not enough strong medical evidence to prove most of these claims.
