History of Grapes
But grapes -- or the chemicals within them, especially oligomeric proanthocyanin complexes (OPCs) -- have been touted as powerful antioxidants.
Some people believe they could help treat several conditions, from heart disease to cancer to aging skin, although scientific evidence is mostly lacking for those conditions. However, there is good evidence that grape seed extract can help treat chronic venous insufficiency and edema. A study of healthy volunteers found that taking grape seed extract did substantially increase levels of antioxidants in their blood. Antioxidants are substances that destroy free radicals -- harmful compounds in the body that damage DNA (genetic material) and even cause cell death. Free radicals are believed to contribute to aging, as well as the development of a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer.
Fruit acids have become one of the most touted ingredients in facial and body creams because of their anti-wrinkle effect. Grapes' tartaric acid is thought to combat wrinkles by increasing skin collagen.