Herbal antioxidants derived from plants can prevent free radical damage in the body, which can cause tissue damage, aging, and disease. Grape seed, milk thistle, bilberry, and pine bark are effective antioxidants. It is important to use them with caution and seek advice from a physician.
Herbal antioxidants are derived from plants and help prevent free radical damage within the body. Free radicals are organic molecules responsible for tissue damage, aging, and possibly some types of disease. Many health professionals have encouraged the use of herbal antioxidants in the fight against free radicals. Different types of herbal antioxidants include grape seed extract, milk thistle, bilberry extract, and pine bark.
Until the late 20th century, most people had never heard of free radicals or the detrimental effects one could suffer from excessive exposure to them. Researchers have come a long way in understanding how free radicals are formed, what damage they inflict on the body, and the best defenses against them. Free radicals are believed to cause a number of serious health problems, including cancer; atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries; diabetes; and a variety of other degenerative diseases.
Herbal antioxidants have also been called anti-aging supplements, as they can reduce cell damage caused by oxidation at the molecular level. When an apple is cut in half and left to sit on the counter for a while, it turns brown. After a long period, the apple will dry up and wither. When the inside of an apple is exposed to oxygen in this way, it begins to deteriorate. The same thing happens to people when they are constantly exposed to free radicals; they start to get old.
Grape seed and pine bark extracts contain high concentrations of oligomeric proanthocyanidin (OPC), which is considered one of the most potent antioxidants. OPC is believed to support optimal circulation. Additionally, grapeseed and pine bark are among the few herbal antioxidants that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and thus protect against free radical damage to brain cells.
Milk thistle is from the family of flowering plants. Milk thistle seeds are reported to be a powerful antioxidant source that detoxifies the liver. Some research suggests that it may reverse liver damage by repairing cells and promoting cell regeneration. Furthermore, clinical trials have shown that milk thistle also has the ability to reduce inflammation.
Cranberry extract is another weapon in the arsenal of highly effective herbal antioxidants. The blueberry contains anthocyanosides. Research has suggested that this chemical is beneficial in the treatment of eye diseases. Studies have shown that cranberry extract can help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. Some people who suffer from poor circulation have found bilberry helpful in strengthening their weakened blood vessels.
Although herbal antioxidants are widely used and many people are convinced of their benefits, it is important that they be used with caution. It is recommended that one seek the advice of a physician when taking natural supplements. Patients should tell their doctor about all medications and supplements they are currently taking to ensure there is no danger of harmful drug interactions.
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