Synonyms: Enocianina
Family: Vitaceae
Genus species: Vitis vinifera
Type: Woody vine
Part Used: Coloring matter derived from the skin of wine grapes, aqueous extraction of the fresh deseeded marc remaining after the grapes have been pressed. Contains 5 - 8% anthocyanins
Location: Italy, U.S.
Actions: Anticancer, anticoagulant, antifungal, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiulcer, capillary protectant, cardiotonic, hemostyptic, inhibits the growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus, vasodilator
Indications: Arteriosclerosis, capillary fragility, common cold, edema, hypertension, inflammation, influenza, muscle spasms, stroke, ulcer
Chemicals & Nutrients: Bioflavonoids, Anthocyanins, Anthocyanidins: Delphinidin, Malvidin, Peonidin, Petunidin
Drug Interactions: Due to the cardioactive chemicals in this herb the following drug interactions are possible: interference and/or antagonism with antiarrhythmics; antagonism of beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs; potentiation of cardiac glycosides and increased risk of hypokalemia; when combined with depolarizing muscle relaxants there is a risk of arrhythmia; interference with nitrates and calcium-channel blockers; may increase the potential terfenadine has to cause arrhythmias. Due to the antihypertensive (hypotensive) action of this herb the following interactions are possible: when taken with anesthetics an increased hypotensive effect; potentiation of antihypertensives; when taken with diuretics difficulty with diuresis and hypertension may result; antagonism of sympathomimetics.
Warning: Leucocyanidin, present in some grape juices, is toxic to laboratory animals, causing heart failure and hepatic lesions.