Vitis vinifera

Figure 1. The Vitis vinifera (or common grape vine) plant.

Vitis vinifera is the scientific name for the common grape vine. Vitis vinifera is a species of flowering plant, native to the Mediterranean region, Central Europe, and southwestern Asia, from Morocco and Portugal north to southern Germany and east to northern Iran. The whole fruit, skin, leaves, and seed of Vitis vinifera have traditionally been used as medicine for various ailments.

Vitis vinifera seeds are rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids (e.g. gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin), and oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes. Vitis vinifera seeds also contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates circadian rhythms like human sleep patterns. Melatonin is also an antioxidant and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Due to these phytochemicals, Vitis vinifera seed extracts are a popular supplement.

As a dietary supplement, Vitis vinifera seed extracts are commonly promoted for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects help reduce inflammation and protect the body against oxidative stress, which may ultimately lead to metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases. Proanthocyanidins in the extract may also help to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Flavonoids in the extract have free-radical-scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial for the brain and help protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

Vitis vinifera seed extract supplements are commonly promoted to help with conditions such as high blood pressure, improving blood flow, improving collagen levels, improving bone strength, reducing the risk of Alzheimer disease, improving kidney function, reducing the risk of cancer, and protecting the liver.