Cardioprotective effect of grape leaves ( Vitis vinifera ) on human health: A comprehensive review

Abstract Grape leaves ( Vitis vinifera ) are currently receiving more attention due to their possible cardiovascular health benefits and extensive use in traditional cuisines. Grape leaves, which are abundant in bioactive substances like resveratrol, flavonoids, tannins, catechins, and epicatechins, have strong anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects. By regulating oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, endothelial function, and inflammatory pathways, these phytochemicals help in cardioprotection. One important polyphenol, resveratrol, controls the activity of NADPH oxidase, which lowers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and shields vascular cells from oxidative damage. By increasing HDL cholesterol levels and decreasing LDL cholesterol, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin have anti-hypercholesterolemic effects. Additionally, polyphenols found in grape leaves increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which facilitates vasodilation and lowers blood pressure. Resveratrol and quercetin’s anti-platelet aggregation qualities also help to prevent thrombotic events, which helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Although preclinical and clinical research indicates supporting cardioprotective effects, issues with formulation and bioavailability need to be resolved to optimize therapeutic effectiveness. To improve their cardioprotective potential, future studies should concentrate on clinical trials, advanced delivery methods, and the formation of functional food products enhanced with grape leaf bioactives. With a focus on their potential as a natural intervention for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and their use in functional foods, this review attempts to compile the most recent scientific data on the medicinal qualities of grape leaves. Incorporating grape leaf bioactives into dietary plans may be a novel way to reduce cardiovascular risks and enhance public health worldwide.