Grapes

Grapes are the fruit of the woody vine Vitis vinifera, in the Vitaceae family. They grow in clusters, ripen in shades of green, red, purple and black, and are eaten fresh, dried as raisins, or made into juice and wine. Cultivated for thousands of years around the Mediterranean and across Asia, grapes are now grown worldwide, including major grape-growing regions of India such as Nashik and parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
In Ayurveda the grape is known as Draksha and is held in high regard among fruits. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Draksha based on its rasa (taste), virya (potency), vipaka (post-digestive effect) and its influence on the doshas.

Grapes are known by different names across languages and regions:

• Botanical name: Vitis vinifera
• Sanskrit: Mridvika, Draksha
• Hindi / Urdu: Angoor
• English: Grape; raisin (dried grape)
• Tamil: Drakshai, Panneer Drakshi
• Punjabi: Angoor

Grapes are mostly water and natural sugar, with useful amounts of potassium and vitamin K. The values below are per 100 g of raw grapes 2 teaspoons (U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, n.d.).

Grapes, known as Draksha in Ayurveda, are regarded as one of the most valued fruits in classical Ayurvedic texts. They are traditionally believed to help balance Vata and Pitta doshas and are used in fresh and dried forms (raisins), as well as in Ayurvedic formulations such as Drakshasava. They are commonly included in traditional digestive and respiratory wellness practices.

• Antioxidant: Grapes contain polyphenols and resveratrol, which may help protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Anti-inflammatory: Compounds in grapes are associated with helping to calm inflammation in the body.
• Antimicrobial: Grape extracts are traditionally believed to have a mild action against certain microbes, though further research is needed to confirm this in humans.
• Analgesic: Grapes may help offer gentle relief from minor bodily discomfort.
• Antipyretic: Grapes are traditionally believed to support the body in maintaining a normal temperature during mild fever.

Note: Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using grapes or grape based formulations for any health condition, especially alongside other medicines.

There are many types of grapes, and each has a different flavour, colour, and health benefits. Among the most common types, these include:

1. Green Grapes

Green grapes are crunchy and softly tart. Green grapes are mainly consumed fresh and are also used in white wine. The benefits of green grapes are wide-ranging, with such a high concentration of antioxidants that they help prevent many diseases.

2. Red Grapes

Red grapes are sweeter by taste and have an abundance of antioxidants, the highest levels of resveratrol, an antioxidant known to promote heart health. Red grapes are mostly eaten fresh or processed into red wine.

3. Black Grapes

These are black grapes, celebrated for their rich flavour. They are also accommodating because they have high anthocyanin, a flavonoid type that can function as a strong antioxidant. Black grapes are used more frequently in juices and jams. Some black grape juice benefits include enhancing immunity, heart health, and healthy skin.

4. Concord Grapes

These dark purple grapes have a rich flavour and are mainly used to produce grape juices and jellies. Concord grapes have polyphenols, known compounds with several health benefits, one of which is reducing inflammation.

5. Thompson Seedless Grapes

This one is one of the most popular seedless grape varieties. Usually greenish, it is commonly made into raisins.

As part of a balanced diet, grapes can add nutrients and antioxidants that support everyday wellbeing. Their main benefits are:

Support Heart Health

Grapes supply potassium and polyphenol antioxidants such as resveratrol. As part of a balanced diet these nutrients support normal blood pressure and healthy circulation. Grapes are a helpful swap for sugary snacks, though they are not a treatment for any heart condition.

Immune System Support

Grapes provide vitamin C and other antioxidants that support the immune system’s normal working. Eaten regularly as part of a varied diet rich in fruit and vegetables, they contribute to overall resilience, rather than preventing infection on their own.

Support Digestive Health

Grapes and raisins provide fibre and water, which support regular bowel movements and can ease occasional constipation. Their gentle bulk helps digestion, though anyone with ongoing gut symptoms should see a doctor rather than rely on fruit alone.

May Support Skin Health

The antioxidants and water in grapes help protect skin cells from everyday oxidative stress and support hydration from within. A diet rich in colourful fruit is linked with healthier-looking skin, though grapes will not, on their own, remove wrinkles or lighten skin.

Weight Management Support

Grapes are mostly water and relatively low in calories for their volume, so a measured portion makes a satisfying, naturally sweet snack in place of richer treats. Because they are high in natural sugar, portion size still matters.

Support Eye Health

Grapes contain small amounts of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are found in the eye and help filter light. As part of a varied diet they contribute to eye health, alongside other fruit and vegetables.

Grapes are used in various ranges of products and for different reasons. Below are some of the most common uses of grapes:

1. Fresh Consumption

Fresh grapes are commonly consumed as a snack or an addition to salads and fruit platters. Fresh fruit is available to everyone due to its sweet taste and juiciness.

2. Juices and Smoothies

Grape juice not only quenches but also ensures nutrient intake. The various benefits of grape juice include building immunity, gaining energy, and contributing to healthy skin care.

3. Dry Grapes- Raisins

Dry grapes or raisins are widely used in sweets and savoury dishes. The benefits of black dry grapes include better digestion. There's improvement in iron absorption, and it helps reduce constipation.

4. Cosmetics

Grapes are rich in anti-aging properties, and thus, they are used abundantly in skincare. Grape extracts and oils are also famous for their elasticity properties on the skin and for reducing wrinkles.

5. Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil, obtained from the seeds of wine grapes, is commonly used in cooking in western countries due to its high smoke point and neutral flavour, making it ideal for sautéing and baking. Further, it is used in skincare products for its moisturising properties as it is high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. It also has potential benefits in reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving skin elasticity.

Most people can enjoy grapes safely, but there are a few situations where caution is advised:

• Choking risk in young children: Whole grapes are a common choking hazard for children under about four. Cut them lengthwise into quarters and supervise young children while they eat.
• Diabetes: Grapes are high in natural sugar. People with diabetes should keep to a small portion and count it within their daily carbohydrate allowance.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Grapes are generally considered safe in normal food amounts. As with any food, anyone with concerns during pregnancy should ask their doctor or midwife.
• Allergies: Grape allergy is uncommon but possible. Stop eating them and seek medical help if you notice itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Overeating: Eating a lot of grapes can cause loose stools, wind or stomach upset because of their fibre and sugar. Keep to a normal serving.
• Grape seed extract: Grape seed extract is a concentrated supplement, not the fruit. If you are pregnant, on medication or have a health condition, ask a doctor before taking it.

Soaked raisins for regularity

Soak a small handful of raisins in water overnight and eat them in the morning. The fibre and water can help support a comfortable, regular bowel habit.

Grapes in a balanced diet for skin

Eating grapes as part of a colourful, fruit-rich diet supports skin health from within. There is no need to apply grape juice to the face; fruit acids can irritate skin and are best enjoyed as food.

Grapes and its juice for everyday nutrients

A portion of fresh grapes or a small glass of juice adds vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants. Whole grapes are the better choice, as juice is higher in sugar and lower in fibre.

A light snack before bed

A small bowl of grapes an hour or so before bed makes a light, naturally sweet snack. Grapes are not a treatment for insomnia, but a modest fruit snack is a sensible alternative to heavier late-night food.

Serving size depends on age, activity and any health conditions. As a general guide:

• Fresh grapes: about 1 to 2 cups (150 to 300 g) a day as part of your fruit intake.
• Raisins: a small handful (40 to 50 g) a day; higher in sugar, so keep the portion small.
• Grape juice: up to a small glass (about 200 ml) occasionally; whole fruit is better day to day.
• Young children: a small portion of grapes cut lengthwise into quarters; never whole, because of the choking risk.

Eaten in normal amounts, grapes rarely cause problems. Possible side effects include:

• Digestive upset: Eating a lot of grapes can cause loose stools, wind or bloating because of their fibre and sugar.
• Allergic reactions: Uncommon, but some people react to grapes, including those sensitive to salicylates. Stop and seek help if you notice itching, swelling or trouble breathing.
• Blood sugar: Grapes are high in natural sugar, so large amounts can raise blood sugar, which matters for people with diabetes.

Eating grapes as part of a balanced diet is unlikely to cause significant medicine interactions, but there are a few considerations:

• Blood thinners: Grapes contain vitamin K, which plays a role in clotting. Large, sudden changes in vitamin-K intake can affect warfarin, so keep your fruit intake steady and follow your clinic’s advice.
• Blood-pressure and potassium: Grapes are a source of potassium. If you take blood-pressure or kidney medicines that affect potassium, ask your doctor about how much fruit is right for you.

Storage of Grapes

Keep fresh grapes unwashed in a breathable bag or container in the refrigerator, and wash them just before eating; washing early makes them spoil faster. Used this way they keep for up to a week or two. Store raisins in a sealed, airtight container in a cool, dry cupboard away from moisture.

• Grapes (Draksha) are a sweet, water-rich fruit that provides fibre, potassium, vitamin K and antioxidant polyphenols.
• As part of a balanced diet they support heart health, digestion and healthy skin; they are not a treatment for any disease.
• They are high in natural sugar, so people with diabetes should watch portions.
• Whole grapes are a choking hazard for young children; cut them lengthwise.
• Keep grape seed extract (a supplement) separate from the fruit, and ask a doctor before taking it.