Cormino Seed Extract
Also known as: Grape Seed Extract, GSE, Cormino Seed Extract, Vitis vinifera seed extract
Overview
Grape Seed Extract (GSE), scientifically known as *Vitis vinifera* seed extract, is a botanical dietary supplement derived from the seeds of grapes. It is highly valued for its rich content of polyphenols, particularly proanthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. GSE is primarily utilized for its potential benefits in supporting cardiovascular health, improving glycemic control, exerting anti-inflammatory effects, and providing overall antioxidant support. It is available in various supplement forms and is characterized by its high concentration of flavonoids and proanthocyanidins, which are both water- and fat-soluble, contributing to its broad bioactivity. Research on GSE is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Grape Seed Extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in cardiovascular and metabolic health. A significant benefit is the reduction in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) by approximately 2 mg/dL, as shown in meta-analyses, which is particularly relevant for individuals with metabolic risk factors. It also contributes to improved lipid profiles, with reductions in total cholesterol by about 6 mg/dL, LDL cholesterol by 5 mg/dL, and triglycerides by 6.5 mg/dL. Furthermore, GSE has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, evidenced by a reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) by approximately 0.8 mg/L. Modest but statistically significant lowering of systolic blood pressure has also been observed, especially with lower doses of grape polyphenols. These benefits are most pronounced in adults with cardiovascular risk factors, metabolic syndrome, or mild hyperglycemia. While the magnitude of these reductions is modest, they can contribute to overall cardiovascular risk reduction when integrated into a comprehensive health strategy. Benefits are typically observed within 4 to 25 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Grape Seed Extract exerts its beneficial effects primarily through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The proanthocyanidins within GSE are powerful free radical scavengers, reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. This antioxidant action helps protect cells and tissues from damage. GSE also modulates endothelial function, improving the health and flexibility of blood vessels, which contributes to better blood pressure regulation. On a molecular level, proanthocyanidins inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a key step in the development of atherosclerosis, and modulate inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing systemic inflammation. These compounds interact with the cardiovascular system by improving blood flow and reducing arterial stiffness, and with the metabolic system by influencing glucose and lipid metabolism. The bioavailability of these polyphenols can vary, with metabolites likely playing a role in their systemic effects.
Side effects
Grape Seed Extract is generally considered well-tolerated and safe, with a favorable safety profile observed in clinical trials. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and infrequent, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or stomach upset. Serious adverse events are rare and have not been consistently documented in high-quality research. However, caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants (blood thinners). GSE exhibits mild antiplatelet effects, which could theoretically increase the risk of bleeding when combined with medications like warfarin or aspirin. Therefore, individuals on blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before taking GSE. There are no well-established contraindications, but due to limited data, it is generally recommended that pregnant or lactating women avoid its use. No significant safety concerns have been identified for long-term use up to 25 weeks, but longer-term data are still emerging.
Dosage
The effective dosage of Grape Seed Extract varies, with benefits observed at doses as low as 100 mg per day of standardized proanthocyanidin extract. Clinical trials have utilized a wide range of dosages, typically between 100 mg and 2,000 mg per day, with some studies indicating dose-response effects. Doses up to 2,000 mg per day have been reported as safe in trials lasting up to 25 weeks. There are no strict timing considerations; GSE is usually taken orally once or twice daily, often with meals to potentially enhance absorption. It is crucial to use standardized extracts that specify their proanthocyanidin content to ensure consistent potency. While no definitive upper limit for safety has been established beyond 2,000 mg/day in trials, it is always advisable to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance, especially for higher doses or specific health conditions.
FAQs
Is grape seed extract safe long term?
Current evidence supports the safety of grape seed extract for up to 25 weeks. While longer-term data are limited, no major safety concerns have been reported in existing studies.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Improvements in blood pressure, lipid profiles, and glycemic control have been observed within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent supplementation in many clinical studies.
Does it help with weight loss?
No significant effects on body weight have been consistently demonstrated in research studies. GSE is not typically recommended for weight loss.
Can it replace medications?
Grape Seed Extract is considered an adjunct therapy and should not replace prescribed cardiovascular or diabetic medications. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.
Research Sources
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0137665 – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effect of grape polyphenols on blood pressure. It found that low-dose grape polyphenols significantly reduced systolic blood pressure in adults with hypertension or cardiovascular risk, though some heterogeneity and small sample sizes were noted in individual trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31880030/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 50 RCTs by Sahebkar et al. (2020) concluded that grape seed extract significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein in adults with metabolic risk factors, with no significant effect on HbA1c or HDL. The study was high-quality, utilizing the Cochrane risk of bias tool.
- https://www.nutraingredients-latam.com/Article/2020/01/13/Meta-analysis-supports-grape-seed-extract-s-cardiovascular-potential/ – This article summarizes the findings of the Sahebkar et al. (2020) meta-analysis, highlighting its support for grape seed extract's cardiovascular potential through reductions in FPG, lipids, and inflammation markers. It emphasizes the high quality of the evidence presented in the meta-analysis.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34798267/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Foshati et al. (2022) focused on the dose-response effects of grape seed extract. It found that GSE improves flow-mediated dilation and dose-dependently lowers blood pressure and heart rate, despite moderate heterogeneity and limited long-term data. The study was high-quality, evaluating dose-response relationships.