Blood accumulates in the legs when there is chronic venous insufficiency. This inflicts pain and swelling to the legs, as well as the surfacing of veins. There are reputable studies that reveal that OPCs that come from grape seed is able to decrease the symptoms.

Edema

Edema, a swelling that occurs after an injury or surgery, is closely linked to breast cancer surgery. A double blind and placebo-controlled study showed that 600 mg of grape seed can reduce pain and edema in breast cancer patients right after surgery. Grape seed extract was also found to reduce swelling after a sports-related injury, compared to the participants under placebo.

High Cholesterol

Two initial studies on the relationship of grape seed extract and cholesterol levels generated quite favorable results, although evidence is not yet that solid. In a period of 2 months, 40 participants were put in a study to see if grape seed extract, chromium, or both would be effective in lowering cholesterol levels. In the end of the study, the grape seed extract and chromium put together were proven to have a more positive response than placebo or each of the ingredient alone.

Proprietary grape seed extract had a positive effect on lipid peroxidation (breaking down of fats in the bloodstream), as shown in a study conducted on 24 healthy but heavy male smokers. These male smokers had to take either a placebo or 2 capsules of grape seed extract twice a day for four weeks. The capsules that the 24 subjects (50 years and above) had to take were 75 mg of grape procyanidin extracts and soy phosphatidalcholine. By the end of the study, the difference between the decrease of LDL cholesterol levels in those who took the supplements and those who took the placebo were very evident. The supplement takers enjoyed a significant reduction in cholesterol levels.

High Blood Pressure

Grape seed extract is shown to be very helpful in the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension because it contains antioxidants. These antioxidants provide protection against damage. It’s important to ensure the protection of blood vessels because any damage to them will cause high blood pressure. Grape seed extract showed promising results in reducing the blood pressure, as shown in animal studies. Its effects on humans have yet to be clarified.

Cancer

There are initial studies that show that grape seed extract may aid in the prevention of breast, colon, lung, prostate, and stomach cancer cell growth but further studies have to be undertaken to give light on its effectiveness. Again, the antioxidants in grape seed extracts are strongly linked to the reduction of cancer growth. It has also shown to be very helpful in protecting human liver cells that are vulnerable during chemotherapy. A pharmacist or doctor should be consulted before taking antioxidants with chemotherapy medications to ensure that both of them don’t disrupt each others effects.

Other Ailments

Aside from the conditions mentioned above, grape seed extract is also associated in helping the following conditions:

• Easing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Improving blood sugar management in diabetes.
• Hemorrhoid treatment.
• Enhancing vision at night.
• Protection of collagen and elastin in the skin (for anti-aging purposes).
• Keeping oxidative rancidity and bacterial pathogens at bay.

Reference: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/grape-seed-000254.htm

Risks – People with allergic reactions to grapes must not take grape seed extract. The doctor’s advice must be sought especially if you suffer from a bleeding disorder or high blood pressure.

Interactions – The doctor’s go-signal is important before taking grape seed extract if you’re taking medications regularly. Grape seed extract may have an effect on NSAID painkillers (e.g. aspirin), blood thinners, heart medications, and cancer treatments.