Red wine is a type of wine made by crushing and fermenting dark-colored, whole grapes. Common varieties include Nerello Mascalese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot noir and Blend Red. The color of the wine may vary from intense violet, brick red to brown depending on their age.
Wine was first documented as a man-made medicine in ancient Egyptian and Sumerian tablets dating back to 2200 BC. Since then it has a long history of medication and is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and early death. Well, this does show red wine as an elixir for vitality and good health.
What Gives Red Wine It’s Beauty Benefits?
Red wine is made from grapes, and grapes are rich in several antioxidants. They are known to have multiple health benefits. Some of these include catechins, resveratrol, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidins.
Studies reveal that resveratrol, the antioxidant present in the grape skin, has both anti-aging and heart-healthy benefits. Flavonoids like anthocyanins that gives the wine it’s rich red color provides many benefits to your body. Proanthocyanidins are associated with alleviating heart disease risk. They help maintain collagen and elasticity of the skin, thus contributing to a younger-looking, wrinkle-free skin. These antioxidants also help to combat free radical damage.
Boost Heart Health
The antioxidants in red wine can increase the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as the “good cholesterol” in the body. The polyphenols in red wine, especially resveratrol, is found to protect the linings of the blood vessels in your heart and reduce blood clots. Moreover, the tannins in red wine help to lower the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Though more research is required, the possibilities are that a daily glass of red wine for four weeks can elevate good cholesterol levels by 16%, and reduce the amount of fibrinogen (a clotting compound) by 15%.
Longevity
Research reveals that the resveratrol in red wine can increase lifespan by as much as 60%. The antioxidant in red wine provides higher energy levels and activates an evolutionary stress response in human cells that might enhance longevity. According to a study, wine can increase lifespan by inducing longevity genes. Another study by Stanford Center revealed that the resveratrol in red wine can protect our neurons from the undesirable effects of aging. In fact, red wine drinkers have a 34% lower mortality rate than vodka or beer drinks.
Skin Benefits
Red wine is found to be extremely beneficial for the skin. Packed with antioxidants like flavonoid, resveratrol, and tannin, it protects the skin from aging by restoring collagen and elastic fibers. Red wine is found to contain natural AHAs, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that cleanses the pores, clears acne and reduces the chance of future breakouts.
Use it a toner by applying it gently on your face using a cotton pad. Let it sit for 20 minutes and wash with a mild cleanser, preferably organic like the African Black soap. The polyphenols in red wine can help to brighten a dull complexion and the aminoacid in red wine refreshes the skin and give it a healthy glow.
Healthy Hair
The flavonoids and antioxidants present in red wine helps in the formation of the keratin thereby preventing keratin deficiency in your body. The antioxidants in rich red wine fight free radicals giving you healthy and shiny hair. It is also known to rejuvenate and repairs damaged hair. Red wine also inhibits hair loss and reduces dandruff by promoting blood circulation in the scalp. You can try mixing it with some essential oils for hair to reap its maximum benefits. Rinse your hair with red wine after you shampoo and condition to get shiny locks in no time. To benefit internally, drink small portions of red wine daily to get gorgeous hair.
Promotes Better Sleep
Drink a small amount of red wine before going to sleep to calm and relax your body and mind. Red wine is found to have a high concentration of melatonin, which stimulates your internal body clock and sleep patterns, thus ensuring proper and peaceful sleep. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone present in the body which is responsible for stimulating the sleeping patterns. The red wines particularly rich in this compound are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Nero.
Although red wine is beneficial for us in many ways, yet consuming it excessively can cause health hazards. Wine is acidic and contains sugar too – which is something you need to consider. You can drink a little almost every day but avoid binge drinking. The ideal amount you should drink is 150 ml, containing 127 calories. Remember, too much of anything can be bad for you!
Avoid it completely if you are pregnant, have a heart or liver/pancreas disease or if you are under any medication. It is best to ask your doctor about specific recommendations for you to assure the safe consumption of red wine for your hair, skin, and health.
Author Bio:
Jessica Smith is a working mom and a passionate writer. She enjoys writing about the latest health and wellness trends all around the globe. Her hobbies include painting and travelling. She is a regular contributor to Hxbenefit.com.
