Resveratrol is a naturally occurring phytoalexin produced by some higher plants in response to injury or fungal infection. Phytoalexins are chemical substances produced by plants as a defense against infection by pathogenic microorganisms, such as fungi. Resveratrol is found in grapevines (Vitis vinifera L). It occurs in the vines, roots, seeds and stalks, but its highest concentration is in grape skins. It may have cardioprotective and antiproliferative actions. It is naturally created by certain vines, pine trees, peanuts, grapes, and other plants. It is a dietary agent that has powerful and diverse effects on the heart and blood vessels. It may also have alexin-like activity for humans. Epidemiological, in vitro and animal studies suggest that a high Resveratrol intake is associated with a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease, and a reduced risk for cancer. Wine also contains Resveratrol. During the wine making process, Resveratrol, as well as other polyphenols, including quercetin, catechins, gallocatechins, procyanidins and prodelphidins (condensed tannins), are extracted from the grape skins via a process called maceration.
Resveratrol has several activities that may account for its possible cardioprotective action. These include inhibition of the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation and inhibition of platelet aggregation. It has also been found to reduce the synthesis of lipids in rat liver and to inhibit the production of proatherogenic eicosanoids by human platelets and neutrophils. Epidemiological, in vitro and animal studies suggest that Resveratrol has anti-atherosclerotic activity and that it might have some immune-stimulating and anti-cancer effects.
References:
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/res_0224.shtml
LE Magazine. http://www.lef.org/resveratrol/
