Grapevine (Vitis vinifera Vitaceae)

Other Names: Common Grapevine, Vine

For thousands of years, grapevine has provided fruit, wine, and herbal remedies. It bears fragrant pale green flowers that form clusters of berries, each containing four seeds. In autumn, its leaves turn a vibrant red.

Parts for Use

Leaves and Seeds

1. Leaves and seeds are harvested in the fall when grapes are ripe.
2. Leaves are collected at the optimal time for maximum active ingredient content, determined chemically.
3. Leaves are air-dried in a shaded area and used to prepare infusions, powders, tinctures, and extracts.
4. Seeds are separated from berries and processed into extracts.

Ingredients

Grapevine leaves contain anthocyanins, which strengthen blood vessels and give the leaves their autumn color, along with organic acids, sugars, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, and tannins with anti-inflammatory properties. Both leaves and seeds are rich in antioxidants, including proanthocyanidins, which may protect against certain cancers and heart disease.

Use in Treatment

Studies, including a 1994 Italian research effort, confirmed that grapevine anthocyanins prevent damage to small capillaries caused by free radicals, making it effective for circulatory disorders, hemorrhoids, and swelling in the lower legs. Grapevine seed extract, rich in proanthocyanidins, is a potent antioxidant source. Clinical trials in Milan in 1999 showed anthocyanins are effective for chronic venous insufficiency. Grapevine also helps manage high blood pressure, cholesterol, diarrhea, menstrual problems, liver disease, urinary tract disorders, and cough. Externally, grapevine seed preparations treat eye inflammation and subcutaneous markings like freckles and blemishes caused by capillary bleeding.

Cultivation

Grapevines thrive in vineyards, along south-facing warm walls, or in greenhouses. They prefer slate loamy soil.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Circulatory Disorders, Hemorrhoids, Subcutaneous Markings)

1. Infusion: Steep 2 grams of dried leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and drink one to three cups daily.
2. Seed Capsules: Take 30 to 100 mg daily.
3. Liquid Extract: Take 30 ml daily.

Warnings

1. No adverse effects have been reported, even with prolonged use.