Resveratrol is a phytoalexin found in certain plants. A phytoalexin is a compound produced by a plant to protect itself from invading microorganisms. Just as bioflavonoids—produced by plants to protect against the oxidative stress of photosynthesis—can help protect human cells when consumed, resveratrol may also provide similar benefits.
The benefits of resveratrol are relatively well researched. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity (Journal of Chemotherapy, November 2004; Journal of Environmental Pathology, Toxicology and Oncology, 2004, issue 3) and has been shown to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme (Inflammation Research, April 2005). Resveratrol also exhibits ACE-inhibitor properties (European Journal of Pharmacology, May 16, 2005). It has been shown to reduce blood clot formation (Blood Coagulation & Fibrinolysis, September 15, 2004), lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (Life Sciences, August 1, 2003), and increase HDL cholesterol (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, May 4, 2005). It has also been shown to inhibit arterial plaque formation (International Journal of Molecular Medicine, October 2005).
Research on resveratrol extends beyond cardiovascular benefits. It has been shown to increase glutathione levels, promote DNA repair, regulate blood sugar, normalize blood pressure, inhibit viral growth, and suppress several types of cancer.
