Mahadrakkharist [Grape extract]

Mahadrakkharist, the grape extract, contains bioflavonoid-like ingredients called "proanthocyanidins" (PCOs or OPCs). Proanthocyanidins are believed to protect cell membranes by neutralizing a particularly harmful kind of free radical called "lipid peroxides". PCOs may strengthen the capillary walls and the skin. They have also been reported to inhibit the release of inflammatory chemicals such as histamine and prostaglandins. Because they are reported to slow histamine release from mast cells, PCOs have been used in allergies and asthma.

Resveratrol is a molecule with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it may protect against COPD and asthma (Wood 2010). A cell culture study found that resveratrol inhibited the release of all measured inflammatory mediators (cytokines) from immune cells taken from the alveoli of smokers and non-smokers with COPD. In airway smooth muscle cells, resveratrol reduces the release of inflammatory mediators but keeps the signaling of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which may protect against emphysema. More recently, the anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol have been linked to inhibition of the transcription factor NF-kB, possibly through inhibition of l-kB kinase.

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 strongly inhibit the production of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide by macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharides or phorbol esters. It increases nitric oxide, decreases lactate dehydrogenase levels in the carotid blood, and is effective against ischemia-reperfusion induced arrythmias.

The triterpenes roxburghiadiol A and B, isolated from the plant Aglaia roxburghiana, have potent anti-inflammatory activity, and mast cell degranulation was induced by A. roxburghiana extracts and by the triterpenes.

Pharmacokinetics

Animal studies and a limited number of human studies suggest that resveratrol is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after it is swallowed. After it crosses the small intestine and enters the blood circulation, it is found as a glucuronide conjugate. In humans, five metabolites of resveratrol have been detected in urine: resveratrol monosulphate, two isomeric forms of resveratrol monoglucuronide, dihydroresveratrol monosulphate and dihydroresveratrol monoglucuronide. Of these sulphate and glucuronide conjugates, 56% are excreted through urine (Baur and Sinclair, 2006).