Grape seeds contain remarkable bioflavonoids known as Procyanidolic Oligomers (PCO), which were discovered to be 20 x more potent than vitamin C and 50 x more potent than vitamin E as a free radical scavenger. When researching PCO's, one will find a variety of names used to describe these bioflavonoids. Some of these names include proanthocyanidin, procyanidin, leucoanthocyanin, anthocyanidin, Oligomeric Procyanidolic Complexes (OPC), Procyanidolic Oligomers (PCO), Grape seed extract, and Pycnogenol. Research has shown that PCO's have the ability to support the following functions and conditions:

• Discovered to have an intense free-radical scavenging effect.
• Protect connective tissue from collagen destroying enzymes by helping reduce oxidation within the tissue.
• Shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the release and generation of certain compounds such as histamine, serine protease, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes.
• Shown to be effective in the treatment of bruises, varicose veins, etc.
• Provide support for allergy sufferers by reducing histamine production.
• Help support the cardiovascular system by improving blood circulation.
  

According to a European symposium, begin by taking 1 mg per day for every pound of body weight for the first week to completely saturate the body tissues. Thereafter, the dosage may be reduced by half, if desired.