resveratrol

Meaning of resveratrol: Resveratrol is a plant-produced antioxidant compound concentrated in grape skins and red wine, studied for potential cardiovascular and cancer related effects without established clinical use.

Definition of resveratrol

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound belonging to a group of plant chemicals called polyphenols, produced by grapes and a number of other plants, fruits, and seeds. Plants produce resveratrol partly as a defense mechanism, in response to stress, injury, infection by fungi, or excessive sunlight.

Resveratrol is concentrated in the skins of grapes and is present in red wine, since red wine production involves prolonged contact between the juice and grape skins. It also occurs in smaller amounts in certain berries and peanuts.

As an antioxidant, resveratrol can neutralize certain reactive molecules that would otherwise damage cells, and it has been studied for possible effects on cardiovascular health and cancer prevention, among other areas of interest. Despite considerable research interest, resveratrol does not have an established clinical use, and how well it is absorbed and used by the body after typical dietary consumption remains an active subject of study.