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Vitis Labrusca Powder

Also known as: Concord grape, Fox grape, Vitis labrusca powder, Vitis labrusca

Overview

Vitis labrusca powder is derived from the fruit of the North American grape species, commonly known as Concord grape or Fox grape. This botanical supplement is rich in polyphenols, including resveratrol, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins, which are compounds recognized for their antioxidant and vascular health properties. It is primarily utilized for supporting cardiovascular health, providing antioxidant benefits, and enhancing cognitive function. Research on Vitis labrusca and related grape products is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses available. While some studies focus on grape-derived polyphenols generally, the evidence quality for Vitis labrusca's benefits is considered moderate to high, though heterogeneity exists due to variations in grape product types and study populations. It is typically consumed as a powder made from the whole grape, skin, or seeds.

Benefits

Vitis labrusca powder offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly due to its rich polyphenol content. It significantly supports cardiovascular health, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicating a reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) by approximately 3-6 mmHg in hypertensive or prehypertensive individuals. While diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reductions are less consistent, they can be significant in specific subgroups. These blood pressure reductions are clinically relevant for reducing cardiovascular risk. The supplement also demonstrates strong antioxidant effects, evidenced by reductions in oxidative stress biomarkers like malondialdehyde (MDA), which appear to be dose- and duration-dependent. Furthermore, some RCTs suggest that grape interventions, including Vitis labrusca, can improve cognitive performance and mood, especially in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Improvements have been noted in reaction time, memory, and verbal skills. The benefits are generally more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as elevated blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, or cognitive decline, while healthy individuals may experience less consistent effects.

How it works

The beneficial effects of Vitis labrusca powder are primarily attributed to its rich content of polyphenols, such as resveratrol and proanthocyanidins. These compounds exert their effects through multiple mechanisms. They act as potent antioxidants by directly scavenging free radicals and upregulating the body's endogenous antioxidant enzymes, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, these polyphenols improve endothelial function by enhancing the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), a crucial molecule that promotes vasodilation and consequently helps to reduce blood pressure. Anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds also contribute to their vascular and cognitive benefits. The synergistic interaction of various polyphenols present in whole grape powders may offer more comprehensive benefits compared to isolated compounds like resveratrol alone.

Side effects

Vitis labrusca powder and other grape polyphenol supplements are generally well-tolerated. Common side effects are rare and, when they occur, are typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been widely reported in the reviewed scientific literature. However, individuals on anticoagulant medications should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before use, as there is limited data regarding potential interactions. Similarly, pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice due to insufficient research in these specific populations. Overall, the safety profile is favorable, but as with any supplement, individual sensitivities can vary.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Vitis labrusca powder, based on clinical trials, typically range from 300 mg to 1300 mg of total grape polyphenols daily, or equivalent doses of whole grape powder. The specific dose may vary depending on the form of the supplement (e.g., whole powder, skin extract, seed extract) and the intended health benefit. For optimal results, particularly for blood pressure and oxidative stress improvements, longer durations of supplementation (typically 12 weeks or more) have been associated with more consistent and pronounced effects. The timing of intake is flexible, but consistent daily consumption is recommended to maintain steady levels of active compounds. While not strictly necessary, consuming the powder with meals may enhance the absorption of its polyphenols. There are no specific cofactors required for its absorption, and upper limits or safety thresholds have not been definitively established beyond general well-tolerated ranges.

FAQs

How soon can benefits be expected?

Some vascular and cognitive improvements may be noticed within a few weeks, but more significant and consistent benefits often require several months of continuous supplementation.

Is it better than isolated resveratrol?

Whole Vitis labrusca powder may offer synergistic benefits beyond isolated resveratrol due to its complex matrix of various polyphenols and other bioactive compounds.

Can it replace blood pressure medications?

No, Vitis labrusca powder should be considered an adjunct to, not a replacement for, prescribed blood pressure medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your medication regimen.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7867547/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Vitis labrusca and resveratrol on vascular health. It found significant systolic blood pressure reduction in clinical populations but inconsistent effects in healthy subjects, highlighting the heterogeneity in interventions and populations studied. The study was of high quality.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7971097/ – This meta-analysis focused on grape polyphenol products and their impact on oxidative stress markers. It demonstrated a significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels correlated with supplementation duration, indicating antioxidant effects. The study noted variability in product types and biomarkers but was of high quality.
https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/17878/1/Effect%20of%20grape%20products%20on%20blood%20pressure%20a%20systematic%20review%20and%20meta%20analysis%20of%20randomized%20controlled%20trials.pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of grape products on blood pressure. It reported significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive and prehypertensive subjects, especially with grape seed extract and longer trial durations (≥12 weeks). The study was of high quality despite some limitations like small sample sizes in certain trials.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/80/3/367/6285577 – This review summarized the impact of grape interventions on cognitive function. It found improvements in various cognitive domains in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The review highlighted that while promising, more large-scale, long-term randomized controlled trials are needed, classifying its quality as moderate to high.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.7135 – This source was cited in the original text but no specific summary was provided. Based on the context, it likely contributes to the understanding of grape product effects on health, possibly related to cardiovascular or cognitive benefits, or general safety. Further review of the article would be needed for a precise summary.