The largest source of resveratrol which is actually an antioxidant produced by certain plants as a reaction to environmental stress is grapes. Actually, the skin of grapes contains this phytoalexin in abundance. This is the reason why the resveratrol content is more in red wine.
This antioxidant does not allow fungal infections to affect the plant and also protects the plant from heat. Cooler climates can see more of resveratrol as it is here that there are more chances of fungus infecting the plants.
Resveratrol occurs naturally as well as in diet supplements. Resveratrol is predominantly found in muscadine grapes, Vitis vinifera and labrusca. These are the varieties of grapes used in making of wine. Resveratrol is concentrated on the skin of the grapes though it is also found to a certain extent in the seeds, roots and stalks. Resveratrol is also found in certain other plants like lily, eucalyptus and spruce and foodstuff like peanuts and mulberries.
Wine is an excellent source of resveratrol. It is found more in red wine as the fermentation period is long. Another factor influencing the amount of resveratrol in wine is the environment the grapes are grown in. If they are from humid conditions, resveratrol content is found to be higher. This is due to the fact that grapes tend to be affected by fungal diseases in humid areas due to the moisture content.
Resveratrol is found to reduce aggregation of platelets thereby helping in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Studies are however inconclusive as they have been conducted only on tissue cultures in artificial environments. It is yet to be tested on animals and humans.
Blueberries are another natural source of resveratrol. A lot of antioxidants are present in blueberries along with resveratrol. Peanuts and peanut sprouts are also found to be excellent natural sources of resveratrol.
Polygonum Cuspidatum commonly known as the Japanese Knotweed is also a good source of naturally occurring resveratrol.
It is advisable to consult one’s physician before deciding to take resveratrol supplements as a preventive measure for any ailment. As with any other drug which is in the research stages, it is better to wait for conclusive evidence and reports before proceeding to make it a part of our intake.
Resveratrol is sometimes offered in the form of a transdermal patch. This is similar to the nicotine patch. Apart from this, it is also manufactured in liquid form for easier consumption. It is always better to consult with the doctor before taking these supplements as a prevention or cure for any condition.
There is no harm however in taking natural grapes, peanuts, blueberries and such known to contain resveratrol in reasonable quantities rather than taking supplements that contain resveratrol, or in powder and patch forms.