Common Names: Grape, common grape, wine grape, asma, i'nab, roseinekaerne, tray, vid, vigne, vine, vite.
Parts used: Seed, stem, leaf, fruit
Active Compounds: flavonoids, tannins, tartrates, inositol, carotenes, choline, anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins, and oligomer proanthocyanidins (OPCs).
Background: Recent discoveries estimate a history of human use of the Vitis vinifera plant of more than 6500 years. References to grapes are numerous. They are included in the writings of Homer (700 BC), and in the Bible. Egyptian tombs bear artful representations of the fruit. One of the most widely grown fruit crops, it is native to Asia near the Caspian Sea, introduced to North America in the 17th century.
In Ayurveda, aerial parts are widely used to treat a variety of common and stress related disorders. The stem, when charred, is mentioned by Culpeper (1652) as a tooth-whitening dentifrice. A malagma (cataplasm or emollient) made with seed powder is said to be a folk remedy for warts.
Applications: The seed contains oligomeric proanthocyanidin (OPC) showing medicinal and pharmacological properties against oxidative-caused cellular stress. Radical-scavenging effects are reported. Bioflavonoids in grape seed are water-soluble and have antioxidant and adaptogenic properties, providing defense against a number of negative environmental factors, including smoke, radiation and chemicals.
Grape seed powder is taken internally for improving blood flow to veins and is strengthening to capillaries. Shows benefit in treating a variety of circulatory ailments, including chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Also beneficial in treating diseases related to free radical damage. Reduces effects of age-related macular degeneration, an eye disorder that can cause blindness. May help improve night vision and sensitivity to light and reduce vision-strain from bright lights. The procyanidins in grape seed may possibly promote hair growth.
Using grape seed can relieve stress-induced problems of many types. Grape seed may also be useful in the treatment of lymphedema, cancer, pancreatitis, premenstrual syndrome, dental caries, and circulatory disorders. Grape seed contains antimicrobial properties. Anti-tumor action has been reported.
Description:
Native to southern Europe and western Asia, grapes are cultivated in warm temperate regions throughout the world mainly for their fruit. It is a deciduous climber with erect rambling stems, tendrils, palm shaped leaves, and clusters of small pale green flowers. The green, red, or purple fruits are presented in dangling bunches. Established grape plants can tolerate environments where the temperature dips to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dosage:
Decoction: To two parts water, add 1 part herb powder, brought to a boil, removed from heat, strained, cooled. This can be taken by mouth or used topically.
Decoction can be added to tea, juice or water: 30-60 drops, 2-3 times daily.
Encapsulated powder: 1 gm, taken 2-3 x day.
Dried root: The recommended dose is 500 to 3,000 milligrams of dried root daily (taken in tea, or in capsules).
Safety:
There is no known negative health information available.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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