Herb library · Herb · Vitis vinifera
Grape Seed Extract
An extract made from the seeds of wine grapes, sold mostly for cholesterol and blood pressure. Small studies suggest modest effects on some cholesterol numbers and on the lower blood pressure number; results vary between products.
Traditional use
A modern supplement made from wine-grape seeds, which contain proanthocyanidins. It is sold for cholesterol and blood pressure, and it appears in topical products sold for wounds and in mouthrinses sold for tooth decay.
What studies show
- Limited
Cholesterol: a 2020 review of 11 studies (536 people) found possible effects on LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, not on total or HDL cholesterol. The studies were small and the products varied, so NCCIH says the conclusions are not definite.
- Limited
Blood pressure: a 2022 review of 19 studies (1,080 people) found it lowered diastolic pressure (the lower number) but not systolic pressure. Results differed between studies, perhaps with dose, duration, and who took part.
- Insufficient
Skin wounds: only a very small amount of research in people; not enough evidence to know whether it helps.
- Insufficient
Tooth decay: laboratory studies suggest a mouthrinse might help, but there has not been enough research in people.
Be careful of
Cautions
- NoteGenerally well tolerated by mouth or on the skin. LiverTox reports it has not been linked to liver injury.
- InteractionIf you take any medicine, check with your clinician first; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.
- PregnancyLittle is known about its safety in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are giving it to a child.
Sources
- Grape Seed Extract: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 25, 2026
- Grape Seed (LiverTox) (opens in a new tab) · NIH · read September 25, 2026
Reviewed September 25, 2026.