Oligomeric proanthocyanidins are the very powerful antioxidants derived from grape seeds and
they are usually referred to as OPC. OPC seep into the liver and kidneys, and are very protective
in these organs. OPC also protect the lungs, brain, and digestive tract. Grape seed OPC protect
connective tissue by inhibiting enzymes that degrade it, and help protect the eyes and vision.
OPC are thought to have anti-cancer activities.
In this study colorectal cancer cells were exposed to OPC and it was found that the greater the
concentration of OPC the greater was the ability to kill the cancer cells. The level of cancer
cell cellular executioners called Caspase-3 cells were significantly increased by the presence
of OPC and the levels of factors that fight cancer improved. The study is published in the August
14th, 2005 issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.
Commentary by Jerry Hickey, R.Ph.
At the start of this study the impact of the supplements Green Tea Extract and CLA were not
even thought of yet - studies show these both impact weight.
Research review demonstrates the benefits of Vinpocetine after a stroke
The Apocynaceae family of plants contains a wide assortment of alkaloids that have pharmacological
activity on the brain. These alkaloids improve brain circulation, balance nerve activity, while
protecting the brain from a lack of oxygen and other stressful conditions. Chief among these is
Vinpocetine, a safe derivative of an alkaloid from the lesser periwinkle plant. Vinpocetine
improves electrolyte-energy function in the brain, connects with the benzodiazepine receptor to
aid stress and anxiety, and protects the brain from glutamate (an excitotoxin). Vinpocetine is
clinically useful after an ischemic stroke and for vascular conditions of the brain. Positron
emission tomography shows that Vinpocetine is functional throughout the brain and it also
concentrates in the basal ganglia, thalamus, and visual cortex areas of both the human and primate
brain. These areas are involved with visual input and translating what you are viewing, in
deciphering information from your senses, and in movement. Vinpocetine is also active in areas of
the brain involved with memory and learning. Vinpocetine improves blood flow in areas damaged during
a stroke and improves the utilization of energy in the brain from its main source of fuel - glucose.
The literature-research review is published in the November issue of the journal Medical Research
Reviews.
