OPC - 100

Thorne OPC-100 contains Oligomeric ProanthoCyanidins (OPCs). OPCs are a specific group of flavonoids that have demonstrated important vascular protective effects in numerous studies. They exert strong anti-inflammatory activity and free radical scavenging, resulting in inhibition of oxidative damage and protection of blood vessels and other connective tissues.

OPCs have been shown to inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol and to protect vascular endothelial cells from damage. The positive effects of OPCs on microcirculation are additionally attributed to decreased incidence of foam cells, markers of early stage atherosclerosis. OPCs also appear to strengthen the resistance of cell membranes to injury and degradation and bind copper and iron, thereby reducing their oxidative effects. OPCs may have a vitamin E-sparing effect. A clinical study of 10 healthy volunteers examining the effect of OPC supplementation on markers of oxidative stress showed significantly increased levels of alpha-tocopherol in red blood cell membranes.

Evidence suggests OPCs stabilize collagen cross-linkage within skin and other connective tissues. OPCs have also been shown to decrease capillary permeability (thus decreasing bruising and telangiectasia) and block the effects of hyaluronidase, elastase, collagenase, and other enzymes that degrade connective tissue. Clinical studies demonstrate reduced swelling and improved healing time from sports injuries in athletes given OPCs prior to a sporting event. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are dimer, trimer, and oligomeric flavonoids; meaning, they are comprised of two, three, or more flavonoid molecules attached to each other.

Thorne's trademark highest quality processes have gone into the creation of this OPC product.