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Grape Leaf Extract

Also known as: Grape Leaf Extract, Vitis vinifera leaf extract

Overview

Grape leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the grapevine (*Vitis vinifera*), a plant widely cultivated for fruit and wine production. The leaves contain bioactive polyphenols and flavonoids similar to those found in grape seeds and skins. It is traditionally used for vascular health, anti-inflammatory purposes, and antioxidant support, and is being explored for its effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. The extract is rich in polyphenolic compounds, giving it antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While more clinical research exists on grape seed extract, grape leaf extract shares similar bioactive compounds, suggesting comparable benefits. Evidence is emerging, but direct, high-quality randomized controlled trial (RCT) data specifically on grape leaf extract is somewhat limited, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses primarily focusing on grape seed extract and grape polyphenols in general.

Benefits

Grape leaf extract exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its high polyphenol content. Meta-analyses of grape seed extract supplementation, which shares similar compounds, demonstrate significant antioxidant effects, including reductions in oxidative stress biomarkers like malondialdehyde (MDA) (SMD -1.04, 95% CI: -1.65 to -0.42). It also shows anti-inflammatory effects, with a decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a marker of inflammation. Furthermore, grape seed extract has been shown to improve lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, with dose-response relationships noted. These benefits have been reported in adults with dyslipidemia, oxidative stress-related conditions, and mild inflammation, with measurable changes observed within 4 to 12 weeks in most RCTs.

How it works

Grape leaf extract's mechanism of action primarily involves its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its antioxidant activity is achieved by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. The anti-inflammatory action occurs by downregulating inflammatory cytokines and markers like CRP. In the cardiovascular system, it improves lipid metabolism and reduces oxidative damage to blood vessels. The polyphenols in grape leaf extract target reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibit LDL oxidation, and modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. The bioavailability of these polyphenols is variable, with metabolism by gut microbiota influencing their systemic effects.

Side effects

Grape leaf extract is generally regarded as safe, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials at studied doses. The most commonly reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, occurring in more than 5% of users. Rare allergic reactions are possible but not well documented, affecting 1-5% of users. No significant rare adverse events have been reported in high-quality studies. There is a potential interaction with anticoagulants due to the effects of polyphenols on platelet aggregation, although the clinical significance of this is unclear. Caution is advised for patients on blood thinners. Limited data exists for pregnant or breastfeeding women, so its use is not well studied in these populations.

Dosage

Studies on grape seed extract typically use 100–300 mg/day of standardized polyphenols; grape leaf extract dosing is less defined but expected to be similar. Meta-analyses suggest doses around 200–400 mg/day of polyphenols for lipid and oxidative stress benefits. No established maximum dose exists, but doses up to 600 mg/day have been used safely in trials. It is usually administered daily with meals to enhance absorption. Standardized extracts with quantified polyphenol content are preferred for consistency. Co-administration with food may improve bioavailability. No specific cofactors are required, though overall nutritional status affects antioxidant capacity.

FAQs

Is grape leaf extract as effective as grape seed extract?

Grape leaf extract contains similar polyphenols but fewer studies exist; effects are presumed similar but less well documented. More research is needed to confirm efficacy.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Clinical improvements in oxidative stress and lipid profiles typically appear within 4–12 weeks of consistent use. Individual results may vary.

Is it safe to take long-term?

Short- to medium-term use appears safe based on available data; long-term safety data is limited, warranting caution with extended use.

Can it replace medications for cholesterol or inflammation?

It may support but should not replace prescribed medications without medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34798267/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis included 23 controlled trials (19 in meta-analysis) assessing oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers related to grape seed extract. The study found significant reductions in malondialdehyde (SMD: -1.04), oxidized LDL (SMD: -0.44), and hs-CRP (WMD significant), suggesting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The authors noted limitations including heterogeneity in study designs and doses, and the focus on grape seed extract rather than leaf extract.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7971097/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis analyzed 17 RCTs with 633 participants to assess the effects of grape products containing polyphenols (GPCP) on oxidative stress markers. The study demonstrated antioxidant effects of grape polyphenols on oxidative stress biomarkers with statistically significant weighted mean differences. The authors acknowledged limitations such as variation in grape product types and doses, and some studies with small sample sizes.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-grape-seed-extract-on-dyslipidaemia-a-systematic-review-and-doseresponse-metaanalysis-of-randomised-controlled-trials/B599121C6BE107077B5BED88BC8F46D2 – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis included multiple RCTs examining lipid profile changes with grape seed extract supplementation. The study found dose-dependent reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, indicating a potential benefit for managing dyslipidemia. The authors noted limitations including the focus on grape seed extract, not leaf extract, and some heterogeneity in populations.
https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/9/11/1627 – This study investigates the impact of grape polyphenols on various health outcomes. It highlights the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms and clinical applications.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijcp.14469 – This abstract examines the effects of grape seed extract on blood pressure and heart rate. It suggests that grape seed extract may have a modest impact on reducing systolic blood pressure. More comprehensive studies are required to confirm these findings and determine the clinical significance.