Grape Seed Network

Grape Seed Network

Grape seed pills may be comprised of grape seed extract, freeze dried grapeseeds, or merely ground up grape seeds.

The effectiveness of grape seed pill products is determined in large part by the type of seeds used and the method of manufacture:

Grape Seed Types

Vitis Vinifera - These are the seeds from noble Europen wine grapes such as cabernet sauvignon, syrah/shiraz, and pinot noir. These seeds contain flavonoids called proanthocyanidins which display strong antioxidant properties (i.e. they neutralize free radicals) and which can have a positive effect on the elasticity of blood vessels.

Vitis Rotundifolia - These are the seeds from the muscadine grape native to the Southeastern United States. Because of the hot and humid (i.e. disease prone) growing conditions in the Southeast, these grape seeds are packed with protective phenolic compounds; one such compound is the antioxidant resveratrol which has been proven in laboratory tests to extend life and fight cancer, alzheimers, and protect blood vessels. Other antioxidant phenolic compounds present in muscadine seeds are quercetin, ellagic acid, and OPC's.

Manufacturing Processes

Extraction - A process by which proanthocyanidins and other grape seed components are concentrated into a solid form. Extraction is facilitated by using chemical solvents, heat, and/or water. It is important to find a grape seed product that does not contain excessive solvent residue or one whose extraction process does not destroy the proanthocyanidin's chemical structures.

Freeze Drying - A process by which grape seeds (or ground grape seeds) are frozen; the resulting frozen water is then allowed to sublimate into gas. The reduced water allows the seeds to retain their proanthocyanidins for longer without breakdown or spoilage.

Drying - A process by which grape seeds (or ground grape seeds) are dried by exposure to air. During this process, or thereafter, some of the antioxidants might break down, thereby becoming ineffective.

This site is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.