Scientific studies
have shown that OPC, which stands for oligomeric proanthocyanidins,
is one of the most powerful antioxidant free radical scavengers
known to man. After decades of research, OPC has been given the
official recognition and distinction as "Vitamin P."
Additionally, this extraordinary
nutrient has been scientifically proven to be 50 times more effective
than Vitamin E and 20 times more effective than Vitamin C as a
free radical scavenger. OPC is 100% bioavailable in humans, can
be found in the blood within 20 minutes, and remains in the body
for up to 72 hours. Unlike other anti-oxidants, OPC has a unique
ability to cross the blood brain barrier providing direct protection
to the brain and the central nervous system.
Extensive testing has
proved OPC to be non-toxic, noncarcinogenic, non-antigenic, and
non-tetratogenic (no birth defects). Professor Jacques Masquelier
of Bordeaux University discovered OPC in 1951. After more than
40 years of extensive clinical, analytical, toxicological and
pharmacokinetic studies, OPC has never provoked a toxic effect.
In comparing OPC derived
from its two predominant sources, grape seed and pine bark, grape
seed has a higher OPC content than pine bark and grape seed also
contains gallic esters. Gallic esters are also powerful anti-oxidants
found in grapes, which work together with OPC. This synergistic
blend is only available from OPC derived from grape seed.
OPC is also a Vitamin
C potentiator, meaning OPC supports Vitamin C’s function
in the body. Some antioxidants are protectors of other antioxidants,
some increase the potential of others and some can even regenerate
other antioxidants. OPC protects Vitamin C, thus delivering more
Vitamin C to the cells for nourishment.
As an effective antioxidant,
OPCs help our body resist blood vessel and skin damage, mental
deterioration, inflammation and other damages caused by harmful
free radicals. However, their function is more than protection.
They help repair by improving and stabilizing the skin protein
collagen and improving the condition of arteries and capillaries.
OPCs have four biochemical
properties which are beneficial to our body:
1. free radical scavenging
2. collagen binding
3. inhibition of inflammatory
enzymes
4. inhibition of histamine
formation
