Choosing the best grapeseed supplement depends on the purpose, with options including pure extract, complexes with other vitamins, or carrier oil for topical use. Supplements should contain at least 85% OPCs and can be taken with vitamins for increased benefits, but caution should be taken when combining with prescription medication. Grapeseed extract is also used in skin and hair products due to its vitamin E content, but allergic reactions are possible.
Choosing the best grapeseed supplement for you largely depends on why you are taking the supplement in the first place. Grapeseed extract is typically taken for general health and vitality, but it can also be taken to temporarily boost the immune system, for natural allergy relief, or even to improve the appearance of your hair or skin. Supplements are available for these purposes in tablets and capsules of pure grape seed extract or as complexes with other vitamins or even as a carrier oil for topical use. These supplements are best if they contain the correct concentrations of ingredients and must be taken in conjunction with other vitamins in order for them to work synergistically.
Grape Seed Extract is a form of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), which is a naturally occurring flavonol found in various types of plants that works to protect plants from degeneration. Some supplements may have a very low concentration of OPCs and therefore are often not effective enough to justify the cost. It has been suggested that only supplements containing an OPC concentration of 85% or higher are beneficial. Vitamins that can increase the effect of a grapeseed supplement include vitamin E, vitamin C, and vitamin A.
Those who take a grapeseed supplement to boost their immune system or fight allergies may especially benefit from supplements with higher OPC content along with vitamin C. Studies suggest that the two can be taken at the same time to increase the overall benefit from both. However, taking these supplements with any prescription medication should not be done before consulting a medical professional.
Grape seed extract generally contains a large amount of vitamin E as part of its chemical structure, and is therefore used in some skin and hair products. Vitamin E is said to improve hair growth, strength, and shine, while providing sun protection and scar treatment for the skin. Due to these claims, some commercial hair and skin products contain grapeseed oil, but the concentration may not be clear. Grapeseed extract can also be purchased as an oil, which can be used on its own or added to homemade beauty products.
No common side effects have been reported from the use of any grapeseed supplement, but it is generally recommended that anyone taking prescription medications talk to their doctor before taking any supplement. A small number of people may also be allergic to this supplement and not know it. A simple allergic reaction test can be done by rubbing the oil on a small, sensitive patch of skin and watching for any reaction for at least eight hours.
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