Grapes (scientific name: Vitis vinifera ) are a climbing plant of the Vitaceae family that is said to be one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world, and are the most commonly used variety for winemaking. They prefer dry climates and alkaline soil, and are characterized by their thin skin, abundant juice, and excellent balance of sugar and acidity. They grow wild and are cultivated in India, the Middle East, South Africa, East Asia, and other places.
Traditionally, it has been used to maintain fluid balance and provide nutrition, easing burning sensations in the body, urinary problems, weakness, fever, respiratory conditions (asthma), and thirst. Recent research has shown that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily those of polyphenols, have earned it high praise as a health support ingredient in the areas of cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and anti-aging care.
In terms of ingredients, it is rich in stilbene polyphenols such as resveratrol , anthocyanins , flavonoids , tannins , glucose , fructose, tartaric acid , malic acid , etc. Resveratrol in particular has been reported in basic research to have antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , vascular function support , mitochondrial activity, and activation of the longevity-related pathway (SIRT1) , and is attracting attention in the field of anti-aging care.
Grape characteristics
- Scientific name: Vitis vinifera
- Classification: Vitaceae
- Japanese name: Grape
- Growth characteristics: Prefers dry climate and alkaline soil, but is weak to cold and humidity
- Characteristics: Thin skin and lots of juice, highly suitable for winemaking
- Parts used: Fruit, peel, seeds, leaves
Main ingredients (reported examples)
- Polyphenols: resveratrol, proanthocyanidins, catechins
- Anthocyanins: malvidin, delphinidin, etc.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, kaempferol derivatives
- Organic acids: tartaric acid, malic acid
- Sugars: glucose, fructose
- Other: Vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber
Expected effects (including Health Focus and resveratrol)
- Antioxidant and anti-aging support effects: Resveratrol and polyphenols may contribute to reducing cell aging stress and activating longevity-related pathways through their suppression of reactive oxygen species.
- Cardiovascular and blood flow support effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining vascular endothelial function, blood flow balance, and blood pressure stabilization.
- Anti-inflammatory and immune balance support effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to suppressing chronic inflammatory load and regulating immune responses.
- Supports metabolism and glycolipid balance: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining healthy insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism.
- Brain and nerve support: Basic research suggests that it contributes to neuroprotection and maintaining cognitive function.
- Anti-tumor and cytoprotective support: Studies have shown that it inhibits abnormal cell proliferation and activates cell repair pathways.
- Antibacterial and infection-supporting effects: Inhibitory activity against some bacteria and viruses has been suggested.
- Supports fluid and water balance: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining the balance of the internal environment, such as by easing thirst and feeling hot inside the body.
