(NaturalNews) Grape seed extract comes from the seed of grapes. Studies have shown that grape seed extract is high in antioxidants that are able to counteract cell damage in the body that is caused by free radicals. Free radicals are active molecules that can cause cell damage as they roam about and multiply in the body. A new study has recently shown that over three-quarters of leukemia cells in a laboratory setting died within 24 hours of being exposed to grape seeds. In fact, they actually killed themselves and other healthy cells were left unharmed. These study results are currently appearing in the January 1 issue of Clinical Cancer Research.
The recent study focusing on grape seed extract and leukemia cells was performed at the University of Kentucky. Researchers report that the extract activates JNK, which is a protein that regulates the cell-signaling pathway that leads to the death of cells (apoptosis).
These results mean that grape seed extract may be effective in both the prevention and treatment of hematological malignancies and other cancers as well. These study results also support previous studies that have shown that diets high in fruits and vegetables can help prevent the development of many cancers.
The leukemia cells were exposed to a commercially-available grape seed extract in varying amounts. The higher amounts caused more leukemia cells to die and did not affect normal, healthy cells in the same setting.
The extract became ineffective, however, when researchers added an agent to it that stopped the JNK protein or when genetic engineering was used to stop the JNK gene.
Grape seed extract has been found to be effective for treating conditions related to the heart and blood vessels, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and conditions associated with poor circulation. Grape seed extract can also help improve complications associated with diabetes, vision problems, and swelling incurred from injuries and surgeries. One of the most encouraging and interesting effects from grape seed extract, however, is its ability to promote wound healing and prevent some cancers.
There are numerous studies being funded and conducted presently about grape seed extract’s effectiveness in the treatment and prevention of various cancers, including breast and prostate cancers.
Grape seed extract is typically tolerated well when taken orally. Grape seed extract is available in both capsule and tablet form. When used in clinical trials, it has been used without incident for up to eight weeks. Some side effects reported, however, include headache, dry scalp, dizziness, and nausea.
Interactions between grape seed extract and other medications or supplements have not been studied extensively. For this reason, always fully disclose all supplementary or alternative health products being used with any health care professionals involved in one’s care.
Source:http://nccam.nih.gov/health/grapeseed/
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