Resveratrol
Resveratrol is naturally created by certain vines, pine trees, peanuts, grapes, and other plants. One of these plants (Polygonnum cuspidatum) is an ingredient in traditional Asian medicines that are prescribed for liver and heart conditions. Resveratrol is classified as a polyphenol because of its chemical structure. Polyphenols make up a huge group of plant compounds that are further broken down into other classifications such as flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, and the like.
Resveratrol inhibits tumor formation and breaks down "bad," LDL cholesterol and lowers risk of Atherosclerosis.
In the early 1990's, after wine was pinpointed as the probable answer to the "French paradox," researchers realized that the resveratrol content of wine might be the secret ingredient behind the healthy heart effects attributed to it and the traditional Asian heart medicines containing Polygonnum. Research began in earnest, and just over a decade later, the accolades are enormous.
While it is important to point out that a lot of the research on this wine extract has been done only in test tubes or rodents, the sheer volume suggests that resveratrol is one of the most versatile and effective plant compounds discovered so far. Resveratrol represents a novel solution to many common problems encountered by aging humans.
Where you get Resveratrol: Found in grapes (particularly red) and wine, as well as peanuts, cranberries and mulberries.
Doctor Approved and is a powerful antioxidant. One scientist referred to it as "one of the best free radical scavengers." This may account for its beneficial effects. Free radicals are produced naturally by the body and can damage healthy cells.