OPC Factor

A Reference Guide to Ingredients and Conditions

Ingredients Benefits

  • Bilberry Extract
  • Chromium
  • Citric Acid
  • Copper
  • Cruciferous Vegetable Concentrate
  • D-Glucose
  • Folate (Folic Acid
  • Full-Spectrum Plant Enzymes
  • Ginkgo Biloba
  • Grape Seed Extract
  • Green Tea Leaf Extract
  • Lemon Bioflavonoids
  • Lutein
  • Lycopene
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Molybdenum
  • OPC’s
  • Pine Bark Extract
  • Potassium
  • Red Wine Grape Skin Extract
  • Resveratrol
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin E
  • Zinc

Health Benefits

  • ADHD & ADD
  • Aging Skin
  • Allergies
  • Anxiety & Depression
  • Arthritis
  • Atherosclerosis/Arterioscierosis
  • Athletic Performance Recovery/Injuries
  • Bruising
  • Cardiovascular/Heart Disease
  • Cholesterol
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Chronic Pain
  • Circulation
  • Diabetes
  • Edema-Swelling
  • Energy
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Eye Health
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hemorrhoids
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Immune System
  • Inflammation
  • Liver Cirrhosis
  • Lupus
  • Multi-Functional
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscle Fatigue
  • Natural Antihistamine
  • Night Vision
  • Pain Relief
  • PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome)
  • Prostate Health
  • Retinopathy
  • Short Term Memory
  • Skin & Complexion
  • Traveler’s Leg Thrombosis
  • Varicose Veins
  • Vision
  • Wound Healing

Ingredients Benefits

Ingredients in Cell Essentials OPC Factor's unique isotonic effervescent formula work synergistically to support your body's optimum health. Complex mixtures of antioxidants (flavonoids) are more powerful than their individual components. Antioxidants are meant to work together and are more effective in combination.

The supplement facts are listed on the label of the OPC Factor box.

Bilberry Extract

This is a rich source of bioflavonoids and anthocyanidin compounds. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Bilberry may halt the progressive visual loss of dry macular degeneration and possibly even improve visual function. It has also been shown that Bilberry extract plus Vitamin E stopped the progression of cataract formation in 97% of 50 patients with cataracts. Bilberry may also prove helpful in the treatment of glaucoma by strengthening collagen structures in the eye. Bilberry improves night vision and promotes more rapid restoration of visual acuity after exposure to glare. Proanthocyanidins help the blood vessels of the eye and retina, especially the macula.

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that humans require in trace amounts, although its mechanisms of action in the body and the amounts needed for optimal health are not well defined.

  • Chromium is known to enhance the action of insulin, a hormone critical to the metabolism and storage of carbohydrates, fat, and protein in the body.
  • In 1957, a compound in brewers’ yeast was found to prevent an age-related decline in the ability of rats to maintain normal levels of sugar (glucose) in their blood. Chromium was identified as the active ingredient in this so-called “glucose tolerance factor” in 1959.
  • Chromium also appears to be directly involved in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism but more research is needed to determine the full range of its roles in the body.

Citric Acid

Citric Acid is widely distributed in plants, especially citrus varieties, and in animal fluids and tissues. Citric Acid is a necessary ingredient for pH stability of the product in solution.

Copper

Copper is an essential trace element present in the diet and in the human body. It is needed to absorb and utilize iron.

  • Copper is also part of the antioxidant enzyme, Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD). Copper is needed to make adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy the body runs on. Synthesis of some hormones requires copper, as does the synthesis of collagen (the “glue” that holds connective tissue together). In addition, the enzyme, tyrosinase, which plays a role in the production of skin pigment, requires copper to function.
  • Copper supplementation has been shown to increase SOD levels in humans – an important antioxidant enzyme.
  • Heart Structure and function are linked to dietary copper (Cu) intake, and even a marginal deficiency can promote cardiomyopathy, according to a study published in the September issue of the Journal of Nutrition (1352130-36, 2005).

Cruciferous Vegetable Concentrate

Studies indicate that Sulforaphane, found in broccoli sprouts and cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, may be very effective in protecting cells from oxidative stress. According to researchers, Sulforaphane may play a key role in increasing the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems. They may also function as a powerful indirect antioxidant with a longer-lasting effect than vitamins C and E.

D-glucose (also known as grape sugar and blood sugar)

D-glucose is the main source of energy for living organisms. It occurs naturally and in the free state in fruits and other parts of plants. Normal human blood contains 0.08-0.1% d-glucose. It is included to stimulate the sodium pump mechanism of the active transports and to help maintain the bioavailability of the product.

Folate (Folic-Acid)

Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that occurs naturally in food. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate that is found in supplements and added to fortified foods.

  • Folate helps produce and maintain new cells. This is especially important during periods of rapid cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy.
  • Folate is needed to make DNA and RNA, the building blocks of cells. It also helps prevent changes to DNA that may lead to cancer. Both adults and children need folate to make normal red blood cells and prevent anemia.
  • Folate is also essential for the metabolism of homocysteine and helps maintain normal levels of this amino acid.

Full-Spectrum Plant Enzymes

Enzymes are protein molecules that carry a vital energy factor needed for every chemical action and reaction that occurs in our body. There are several thousand different enzymes found in the human body. These enzymes can combine with co-enzymes to form nearly 100,000 various chemicals that enable us to see, hear, feel, move, digest food, and think. Every organ, every tissue, and all the 100 trillion cells in our body depend upon the reaction of enzymes and their energy factor. Nutrition cannot be explained without describing the part that enzymes play.

Ginko Biloba Studies show that Ginkgo Biloba (especially the concentrated extracts) can improve memory recall, but Ginkgo Biloba in herbal form can affect the whole body. Bioflavonoids have long been considered important in protecting microcirculation in small blood vessels.

  • The bioflavonoids in Ginkgo Biloba are no exception, exhibiting the ability to protect and repair the microcirculation of capillaries.
  • They have stronger biological activity than most other bioflavonoids and have a specific affinity for the capillary beds of the brain.
  • Research shows that Ginkgo Biloba lowers blood pressure, inhibits blood clotting, relieves muscle pain, and has anti-aging properties.
  • Preliminary study results indicate Ginkgo Biloba may also slow the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Grape Seed Extract

See OPCs

Green Tea leaf Extract

Green tea is the second-most consumed beverage in the world (water is the first) and has been used medicinally for centuries in India and China. Green Tea Extract has an antioxidant activity about 25-100 times more potent than vitamins C and E. A simple cup of green tea may provide 10-40mg of polyphenols and has antioxidant activity greater than a serving of broccoli, spinach, carrots, or strawberries.

  • Green Tea extracts have been used for the following: Lowering cholesterol & triglyceride levels, Reducing blood clotting, Enhancing immune function, and aiding in weight loss. Green tea and green tea extracts have also been used for improving mental alertness and protecting skin from sun damage.
  • Because the active compounds, the catechins, found in green tea, are known to possess potent antioxidant activity, they may provide beneficial health effects by protecting the body from the damaging effects of oxidative damage from free radicals. Many chronic disease states have been associated with free radical-induced oxidative damage, including heart disease, suppressed immune function, and accelerated aging.

Lemon Bioflavonoid Complex

Lemon bioflavonoid complex is a natural extract produced from lemon peels. Lemon bioflavonoids are another rich source of bioflavonoids and anthocyanidin compounds. Lemon Flavonoids demonstrate the potential to reduce the mutation of the cells, as well as antioxidant activity. Recently, studies have taken a look at lemon flavonoids’ role in the prevention of cancer cells, as well as in the maintenance of capillaries. Lemon bioflavonoids are an important part of the daily diet. They function closely with Vitamin C and it is recommended that the two are consumed together.

Lutein

Lutein is believed by some to protect the fovea, our central vision, by absorbing the harmful blue ultraviolet light. This absorption is nearly 40% reduction of blue light.

Lycopene

Tomatoes are loved for their fresh taste and the versatile role they play in cooking. Tomatoes contain many nutrients, among them vitamins C and B complex and the minerals iron and potassium. Also in the mix are carotenoids (kuh-ROT-uh-noids). These include Lycopene and beta-carotene, which are converted into vitamin A by your body. Research indicates there may be another reason to love them. They’re loaded with Lycopene (LY-ko-pene). Lycopene is a plant chemical (phytochemical) that gives tomatoes their red color. It also appears to offer potential health benefits such as a reduced risk of macular degenerative disease, serum lipid oxidation, and cancers of the lung, bladder, cervix, prostate, and skin.

  • The antioxidant properties of lutein help to prevent damage caused by light and oxygen. Several studies have concluded that intake of these carotenoids has lowered the chances of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Magnesium

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and is essential to good health. Approximately 50% of total body magnesium is found in bone. The other half is found predominantly inside cells of body tissues and organs Only 1% of

is found in blood, but the body works very hard to keep blood levels of magnesium constant.

  • Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong.
  • Magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis.
  • There is an increased interest in the role of magnesium in preventing and managing disorders such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Manganese

Manganese is an essential trace mineral needed for healthy skin, bone, and cartilage formation, as well as glucose tolerance. It also helps activate superoxide dismutase (SOD) — an important antioxidant enzyme.

Molybdenum

Molybdenum is a pure liquid Molybdenum supplement. Molybdenum is instrumental in regulating pH balance in the body. For each pH point increase (e.g., 6.1 – 6.2), the oxygen level is increased ten times, thus increasing the metabolism and enhancing the body’s ability to burn fat. It also promotes general well-being, aids in carbohydrate metabolism, has proven itself useful in MSG (or other chemical) sensitivity, increases libido, and may enhance the effect of fluorine in tooth decay prevention (dental enamel is rich in molybdenum). It also induces sleep.

OPCs (Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins)

Includes Grape Skin extract, Pine Bark extract, Bilberry extract, Lemon bioflavonoids, Lycopene, and Lutein.

OPCs are among the most potent antioxidants in the world. The reason for using these different sources is that each has different bioflavonoids that affect different parts of the body. Scientific evidence has uncovered seven different types of free radical activity in the human body. We have found that this particular formula has the potential to react with almost all free radical activity due to the different bioflavonoids unique to each type of extract. OPCs help maintain health by acting both directly and indirectly on the body.

Pine Bark Extract

See OPCs

Potassium

Potassium makes a slight effervescence which helps distribute all components of the product uniformly in the solution for consumption. It also assists the product in the isotonic state in solution and plays a role in stimulating absorption.

Red Wine Grape Skin Extract

See OPCs

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that is produced by some plants to protect against environmental stresses. Perhaps the most notable producer of resveratrol is the grapevine, which produces large amounts of resveratrol in the skins of grapes to protect against fungal diseases and sun damage.

From the French Paradox study, numerous other studies were launched to attempt to identify compounds responsible for red wine’s apparent health benefits. From these studies the compound that gained by far the largest amount of interest was resveratrol. Recent studies have concluded that:

  • Adding resveratrol to the diet of yeast, fruit flies, worms, and a species of fish, increased their life spans up to 70%, 29%, 24%, and 50% respectively.
  • Resveratrol made fat-related deaths drop 31% in obese mice. The resveratrol-fed obese mice also performed much better in movement and agility tests than mice not fed resveratrol.
  • Mice fed resveratrol had 100% more endurance than mice not fed resveratrol (i.e. they were able to run twice as far on a treadmill.)
  • Resveratrol inhibits blood platelet aggregation. Left unchecked, blood platelet aggregation can lead to dangerous clots that can cause heart attacks and strokes.

Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that may help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals (free radicals are unstable atoms caused in part by pollution, sunlight, and our body’s natural burning of fat that can lead to cancer, aging, and brain degradation.)

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in small amounts. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of selenoproteins help prevent cellular damage from free radicals

  • Free radicals are natural by-products of oxygen metabolism that may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
  • Other selenoproteins help regulate thyroid function and play a role in the immune system.

Vitamin A

Promotes the growth and repair of body tissue, healthy eyes, and good night vision. Vitamin A helps regulate the immune system, which helps prevent or fight off infections by making white blood cells that destroy harmful bacteria and viruses.

  • Vitamin A also may help lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, fight infections more effectively.
  • Vitamin A promotes healthy surface linings of the eyes and the respiratory, urinary, and intestinal tracts. When those linings break down, it becomes easier for bacteria to enter the body and cause infection.
  • Vitamin A also helps maintain the integrity of skin and mucous membranes, which also function as a barrier to bacteria and viruses.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 helps regulate blood pressure, muscle, heart function, and pain levels. It supports optimal nervous system function and may improve emotional outlook/mood. B6 helps red blood cell growth and strengthens the immune system. Arthritis relief.

Like most of the B vitamins, Vitamin B6 is involved as a cofactor in a wide variety of enzyme systems. As such, “structure/function” claims can be made for virtually any health condition. For example, because B6 is needed in the conversion of the amino acid tryptophan into niacin, a common B6 claim relates to “healthy cholesterol levels” (because niacin can help lower cholesterol in some people). Because B6 also plays a role in prostaglandin synthesis, claims are often made for the “benefits” of B6 in regulating blood pressure, muscle and heart function, and pain levels (each of which is partially regulated by prostaglandins). Vitamin B6 needs are increased in those individuals consuming a high protein diet as well as in women taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).

Vitamin B-12

B-12 releases energy from food keeps red blood cells healthy, helps maintain the nervous system, and boosts the immune system.

  • Vitamin B-12 helps reduce the effects of stress, helps prevent anemia, provides extra energy, and helps prevent heart disease.
  • More than 30 years ago, Kilmer McCully, a pathology professor at Harvard, proposed that elevated homocysteine was associated with atherosclerosis. So, the bad news with elevated homocysteine is that it’s associated with heart disease. The good news is that it’s easily treated! Folic acid and vitamin B-12 are two co-factors necessary to get homocysteine to remethylate. Increasing your intake of these vitamins may be effective in reducing homocysteine levels. This gives doctors another tool to reduce a patient’s overall risk of heart disease.
  • Vitamin B-12 may decrease your level of homocysteine, an amino acid normally found in your blood. There is evidence that an elevated homocysteine level is an independent risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
  • The evidence suggests that high levels of homocysteine may damage coronary arteries or make it easier for blood clotting cells, called platelets, to clump together and form a clot. However, there is currently no evidence available to suggest that lowering homocysteine levels with vitamins will reduce your risk of heart disease.
  • One serving of OPC Factor provides 5000% of the USDA of B-12, 167% of the folic acid requirements, 380 mg of potassium, and 40 mg of magnesium.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps wounds heal, strengthens blood vessels, builds connective tissue, healthy gums, skin, and promotes strong teeth and bones. It also may boost immunity.

  • Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin needed by the body for hundreds of vital metabolic reactions.
  • Because of the wide variety of reactions in which vitamin C plays a role, many structure/function claims can be made for supplements. Perhaps the most well-known function of vitamin C is as one of the key nutritional antioxidants – where it protects the body from free radical damage. As a water-soluble vitamin, ascorbic acid performs its antioxidant functions within the aqueous compartments of the blood and inside cells helping restore the antioxidant potential of vitamin E (a fat-soluble antioxidant).
  • Vitamin C also functions as an essential cofactor for the enzymes involved in the synthesis of collagen – the chief structural protein in connective tissues such as bones, cartilage, and skin. As such, vitamin C is often recommended for wound care.
  • As a preventive against infections such as influenza and other viruses, vitamin C is thought to strengthen the cell membranes, thereby preventing the entrance of the virus to the interior of the cell. Support of immune cell function is also a key role performed by vitamin C and an effect that may help fight infections in their early stages.
  • The combined effects of cellular strengthening, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection are thought to account for the multi-faceted approach by which vitamin C helps to maintain health.

Vitamin D

The primary effect of vitamin D is to maintain calcium levels in the blood. To do this, vitamin D promotes both the absorption of calcium from the intestines into the blood and the removal of calcium from the bones into the blood. Vitamin D also reduces calcium loss in the urine. In most cases, the increased calcium absorption results in an increase in bone density and bone strength, which can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

  • Research also suggests that vitamin D may help maintain a healthy immune system and help regulate cell growth and differentiation, the process that determines what a cell is to become.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E protects cell membranes (essential for red blood cells), aids cellular respiration, and protects lung tissue from pollution.

  • Alpha-tocopherol is the name of the most active form of vitamin E in humans. It is also a powerful biological antioxidant. Vitamin E found in the OPC Factor formula is the natural form that is twice as active as the synthetic form.
  • Antioxidants such as vitamin E act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of energy metabolism.
  • Free radicals can damage cells and may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
  • Studies are underway to determine whether vitamin E, through its ability to limit the production of free radicals, might help prevent or delay the development of those chronic diseases.
  • Vitamin E has also been shown to play a role in immune function, in DNA repair, and other metabolic processes.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell.

  • It stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body.
  • Zinc supports a healthy immune system, is needed for wound healing, helps maintain your sense of taste and smell, and is needed for DNA synthesis.
  • Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.

Health Benefits

The ingredients in OPC Factor's unique super antioxidant formulation work synergistically to support your body's optimum health, with OPCs being the primary active ingredient.

Clinically tested, OPCs are used worldwide to aid a vast variety of health conditions. Research is ongoing internationally on additional health benefits from antioxidants and OPCs.

ADHD & ADD

  • The use of OPCs to treat ADHD has been circulating for years. The most significant improvements noted by patients are in areas relating to sustained attention and distractibility.
  • Flavonoids/antioxidants (specifically ginkgo blob found in OPC Factor) improve memory and concentration and are used to treat ADD.
  • The research is clear lifestyle choices including dietary habits do affect our genetic potential.

Aging Skin

Also see Skin and Complexion

  • Antioxidants are youth enhancers, protecting our skin cells from free radical damage while strengthening collagen and elastin, restoring skin health and youthful appearance.
  • Used internally and topically, antioxidants are essential for optimal nourishment for your skin. Skin is nourished by the blood and lymph vessels through the arteries and capillaries of the circulatory system.
  • OPC Factor strengthens the circulatory system, delivering needed nutrients to the cells of the body’s largest organ – the skin.

Allergies

  • PCs counteract allergic reactions and are natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatories. OPCs inhibit the production of histamine, which is the cause of allergic reactions.
  • OPCs fight the free radical activity that produces inflammatory and allergic reactions. Since OPCs neutralize the production of histamine, allergy sufferers who take OPCs find that their allergy symptoms (like sniffling, sneezing, and congestion) improve.

Anxiety & Depression

  • Nutrition can play a key role in the onset, severity, and duration of depression, including daily mood swings. People who follow extremely low carbohydrate diets also run the risk of feeling depressed or blue, because the brain chemicals, trypan, and serotonin that promote a feeling of well-being, are triggered by carbohydrate-rich foods.
  • OPCs have been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels, which helps alleviate mood swings. Depression is also linked to a lack of certain vitamins, especially the B vitamins that are used in nervous system function. An inadequate intake of B vitamins may produce subtle mood changes, even before a deficiency could develop.
  • OPC Factor contains 100% recommended daily value of Folate, and 2000% of B12, which may help in maintaining a sense of well-being.

Arthritis

  • Inflammation is a process now known to be pivotal to the development of diseases as diverse as arthritis, asthma, and Alzheimer’s. Arthritis is inflammation and pain in the joints and describes a condition rather than a disease.
  • OPCs work in the body as a natural anti-inflammatory to alleviate the symptoms caused by arthritis. (See Inflammation)

Asthma

Also, see inflammation

  • Asthma is the inflammation of the air passages resulting in the temporary narrowing of the airway. Clinical studies have shown that the natural anti-inflammatory action of OPCs helps reduce asthma symptoms.

Atheroscierosis/ Arteriosclerosis

also, see Cardiovascular Heart Disease

  • Clinical studies suggest that OPCs can slow or reverse Atherosclerosis. OPCs might help prevent heart disease. Additional studies have shown that OPCs prevent changes to LDL (the bad) cholesterol and help prevent artery clogging. Red wine grape skin extract, a strong component of OPCs, prevents blood platelet clogging by relaxing arterial tissue.
  • OPCs have been shown to reduce levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B (the protein component in LDL). Additional studies showed that artery cells bathed in pine bark extract were protected from oxidative damage.
  • LDL lowering activity of OPCs in grape seed extract can be enhanced by taking with chromium, both ingredients are found in the OPC Factor formula.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Athletic Performance Recovery/Injuries

  • Researchers have found that post-exercise muscle damage occurs as a result of increased free radical activity. The increase in free radical production is believed to be directly related to an increase in oxygen consumption that accompanies increased cardiovascular function.
  • Antioxidant supplementation, especially that containing increased amounts of antioxidant vitamins such as B-carotene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, aids in the reduction of physiological damage that results from exercise.
  • When blood vessels are weak, capillaries become fragile and increase the tendency to bruise, swell, and varicose conditions in the legs. Defects in the vascular system are one reason for excessive fatigue and subsequent inferior muscular activity. OPCs attach to proteins in the vascular wall making the walls solid and supple allowing for a complete and unhindered blood flow to the tissues.
  • During athletic performance, an efficient circulatory system with strong blood vessels is essential for the blood to deliver fuel and oxygen to the muscles and remove any accumulation of lactic acid after exercise.

Bruising

also, see Circulation and Varicose Veins

  • OPCs capillary strengthening capacities help alleviate bruising.

Cardiovascular/Heart Disease

also, see Atherosclerosis/Arteriosclerosis

  • Research is ongoing in determining chronic inflammation as a key factor in the heart disease process. Scientists theorize that inflammation contributes to the rupturing of arterial plaques, causing a heart attack.
  • Clinical research confirms that OPCs help maintain a regular heartbeat. Further studies show that OPCs help reduce the death of heart cells.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Cholesterol

also, see Atherosclerosis/Arteriosclerosis

  • Studies have shown that OPCs help prevent Changes to LDL bad cholesterol that promote artery clogging. One study suggests that OPCs in combination with chromium help reduce bad LDL cholesterol levels.
  • OPC Factor contains both OPCs and chromium.

Chronic Fatigue

  • It is now almost certain that the most basic cause of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is free radical damage. Active ingredients in OPC Factor help the body neutralize free radicals, prevent disease, restore health, and upgrade your quality of life.
  • OPC is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps relieve some of the chronic symptoms of the syndrome. It reduces histamine secretion, relieving the allergy symptoms commonly found in CFS patients.
  • OPC acts both as an antioxidant and an immune system booster. It has the power to maintain healthy immune system function by restoring cytokine imbalances and increasing white blood cell activity.

Chronic Pain

  • A lot of chronic pain is caused by inflammation. Inflammation is a natural defense of our body to signal injury and is designed to rid our bodies of infection. Chemical messengers, such as histamine and prostaglandins, are responsible for the inflammatory response and subsequent pain.
  • Headaches, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and other chronic pain in the joints, back, and knees are often linked to inflammation. Pine bark and grape seed extracts contain OPCs that protect against inflammation and alleviate its symptoms.

Circulation

  • OPCs main claim to fame is its unique ability to strengthen the walls of blood vessels weakened by age and disease. OPCs attach themselves to proteins in the vascular wall strengthening them by making the walls solid and flexible, improving circulation, and allowing for a complete and unhindered blood flow to the tissues.
  • OPCs also repair and maintain collagen and elastic fiber, which can make capillaries stronger. OPC thus reverses the fragility of blood vessels, making them more intact and supple so blood circulation is enhanced.

Diabetes

  • Grape Seed extract together with chromium improved insulin sensitivity and thus countered the development of the diabetic state.
  • Dr. Preusee and a team from Georgetown University Medical Center, report that the combination of chromium with grape seed extract, combated free radical formation and reduced the onset of glucose-insulin disturbances. (Both chromium and grape seed extract are in Cell Essentials OPC Factor).
  • Additional research has shown OPCs improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. OPC Factor’s sugar-free formula is excellent for diabetics and those watching their sugar intake.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Edema-Swelling

  • OPCs are used to help control edema, a swelling common after surgery. One study showed patients treated with OPCs daily for 6 months had reduced edema and pain.
  • Another study showed edema in facial surgery patients disappeared much faster in the group treated with grape seed OPCs.

Energy

  • Although there is no direct evidence that OPCs increase energy, it is the #1 reported benefit by users of OPC Factor! Theoretically, perhaps it is a side effect of the body getting what it needs nutritionally to operate effectively.
  • When the body’s normal healthy processes are working efficiently, one’s own natural, healthy energy level is restored.

Erectile Dysfunction

  • Two studies found evidence that OPCs from pine bark are helpful for erectile dysfunction.

Eye Health

  • The health of the eyes depends largely on the integrity of the fine vessels that supply blood to that area. In a study of 100 workers who sit in front of computer screens or dive for a living, taking OPCs enhanced visual adaptation from bright light.
  • OPC Factor also contains Lutein, which is essential for eye health. Lutein helps keep the macula, which is critical to healthy vision. Studies show that Lutien and antioxidant intake have the potential to help delay or avoid cataract surgery.

Fibromyalgia

  • OPCs are used to successfully alleviate symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Although the cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, research suggests that it is an inflammatory disease. Current medical treatment includes anti-inflammatories (cortisone derivatives with potential side effects) to control symptoms.
  • OPCs can naturally protect against inflammation and help alleviate its symptoms by inhibiting the chemicals that cause inflammation. OPCs boost the effects of Vitamin C and Vitamin E to enhance the effectiveness of endorphins and lessen the pain and swelling of inflammation.

Hemorrhoids

  • On the basis of their use in the treatment of varicose veins, OPCs are often recommended as a treatment for hemorrhoids as well. Hemorrhoids are varicose veins in and around the anus.

High Blood Pressure

  • Doctors are investigating whether blood pressure medications control hypertension in part by lowering levels of certain inflammatory factors that constrict the blood vessels. A diet rich in antioxidants and antioxidant supplementation, like OPC Factor, aids in controlling free radicals that are produced by inflammation.
  • French researchers have found that grape seed OPC increased capillary resistance in patients with high blood pressure and/or diabetes. Another study revealed that pine bark OPC reduced adrenaline stress reactions that trigger high blood pressure.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Immune System

  • OPC Factor acts both as an antioxidant and an immune system booster. It helps maintain healthy immune system function by restoring cytokine imbalances and increasing white blood cell activity.
  • Active ingredients in OPC Factor help the body to neutralize free radicals, prevent disease, restore health, and upgrade the quality of life.

Inflammation

  • inflammation is a process now known to be pivotal to the development of diseases as diverse as arthritis, asthma, and Alzheimer’s. Inflammation is your body’s response to injury or infection. It can be visible (like redness, swelling, pain, and warmth) or invisible at the microscopic cellular level. Inflammation can be produced by the body by excess free radicals.
  • Rapid progress in Inflammation science and medicine has led to many new treatments and reduced suffering. Scientific research into the variety of serious diseases with inflammatory processes is ongoing.
  • OPCs work in the body as a natural anti-inflammatory to alleviate the symptoms caused by inflammation.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Liver Cirrhosis

  • OPCs are used as a treatment for liver cirrhosis that appears to help by strengthening the capillary fragility of cirrhotic patients.

Lupus

  • Lupus is a chronic auto-immune disease in which the immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal tissue. This attack results in inflammation and causes symptoms. If inflammation is long-lasting, damage to the tissues can occur and normal function is impaired. This is why the treatment of lupus is aimed at reducing inflammation.
  • As an anti-inflammatory, OPCs have been tried as a treatment for lupus. Research suggests that OPCs could be useful for second-line therapy to reduce inflammatory features of the disease.

Multi-functional

  • OPC is a plant product that is made from grape seed extract, red wine extract, and pine bark extract. These foods contain powerful bioflavonoids known as OPCs and has been shown to be extremely effective against free radical damage.
  • Free radicals attack body tissue, degrade collagen, and are considered to be the underlying cause of many diseases. OPCs help neutralize the effects of free radical damage.
  • When free radicals are controlled, your body is free to heal itself.

Multiple Sclerosis

  • MS is an auto-immune disease that occurs when the body’s immunological defenses mistakenly direct an inflammatory attack against healthy cells in joints, nerves, and corrective tissue. Antioxidants help keep the immune system in check and fight inflammation through free radical protection while encouraging the growth of healthy tissue.

Muscle Fatigue

  • Researchers have found that post exercise muscle damage occurs as a result of increased free radical activity. The increase of free radical production is believed to be directly related to an increase in oxygen consumption that accompanies increased cardiovascular function.
  • Antioxidant supplementation especially that containing increased amounts of the antioxidant vitamins such as B-carotene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, aide in the reduction of physiological damage that results from exercise.
  • When blood vessels are weak, capillaries become fragile and increase the tendency to bruise, swelling and varicose conditions in the legs. Defects in the vascular system are one reason for excessive fatigue and subsequent inferior muscular activity. OPCs attaches itself to proteins in the vascular wall making the walls solid and supple allowing for a complete and unhindered blood flow to the tissues.
  • During athletic performance, an efficient circulatory system with strong blood vessels is essential for the blood to deliver fuel and oxygen to the muscles and remove any accumulation of lactic acid. Lack of this leads to slow recovery or an accumulation of lactic acid after exercise.
  • Research supports that OPC supplementation helps vein strength, aids in reduction of bruising, reduces swelling (edema). Thus OPC Factor is believed to facilitate athletic recovery.

Natural Antihistamine

  • OPCs counteract allergic reactions and are natural antihistamines and anti-inflammatories. OPCs inhibit the production of histamine (the allergic reaction).
  • OPCs fight the free radical activity that produces inflammatory and allergic reactions. Histamines also produce inflammation and are the body’s natural response to allergens.
  • Since OPCs neutralize the production of histamine, allergy sufferers who take OPCs find that their allergy symptoms (like sniffling, sneezing and congestion) improve.

Night Vision

  • OPCs are used as a treatment for impaired night vision. In the eyes, a substance known as rhodopsin, or visual purple, is the agent that affects visual acuity in low light. Rhodopsin is a precursor of vitamin A which is the reason vitamin A is closely associated with vision.
  • OPCs appear to enhance the speed of rhodopsin activity making it easier to go from high to low light. OPCs synergistically enhance the activity of vitamin A.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10215713

Pain Relief

  • A lot of chronic pain is caused by inflammation. Inflammation is a natural defense of our body to signal injury and is designed to rid our bodies of infection. Chemical messengers, such as histamine and prostaglandins, are responsible for the inflammatory response and subsequent pain.
  • Headaches, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and other chronic pain in the joints, back, and knees are often linked to inflammation. Pine bark and grape seed extracts contain OPCs that protect against inflammation and alleviate its symptoms.
  • OPCs appear to inhibit the chemicals that cause inflammation. OPCs boost the effects of vitamin C and vitamin E which enhance the effectiveness of endorphins, your body’s natural pain relievers.

PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome)

  • Clinical evidence suggests that OPCs from bilberry and grape seed extracts may reduce the general fluid retention and swelling that can occur in PMS.

Prostate Health

  • researchers say resveratrol (skin of red grapes) an ingredient in OPC Factor, has anticancer effects. Drinking a glass of red wine a day may cut a man’s risk of prostate cancer in half and the protective effect appears to be the strongest against the most aggressive forms of the disease according to a study led by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/center-news/2004/10/wine-prostate.html
  • Prostatitis, literally meaning inflammation of the prostate, is a very general term covering many different kinds of conditions that are not life-threatening but are potentially very painful and aggravating.
  • The simplest form of prostatitis is a mild, non-infectious irritation known as, prostatodynia, which can often be linked to stress and is generally treated with anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants.
  • OPCs reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

Retinopathy

  • Diabetic retinopathy is a disease of the eye caused by the degenerative effects of diabetes mellitus. The health of the eyes depends to a great extent on the integrity of the fine vessels that supply blood to that area. OPC has proven to be a therapeutic value in controlling vascular incidents — a major factor in diabetic retinopathy.
  • OPC treatment has resulted in noteworthy improvement of vascular incidents, with reduced micro-aneurisms and diminished exudations, and overall improvement in capillary fragility.
  • Studies of diabetic ophthalmic patients being treated with OPC have demonstrated remarkable stabilization of lesions and controlling key events in diabetic retinopathy by stabilizing micro capillaries in the retinal membranes.

Short Term Memory

  • Flavonoids, specifically ginkgo blob found in OPC Factor, improve memory and concentration and are used to treat attention ADD (attention deficit disorder). Ginkgo is a flavonoid with a reputation as a brain booster and has been prescribed for mental problems caused by poor circulation to the brain.
  • The use of OPCs to treat ADHD has been circulating for years. The most significant improvements noted by patients are in areas relating to sustained attention and distractibility.

Skin and Complexion

  • Antioxidants are youth enhancers — protecting your skin cells from free radical damage while strengthening collagen and elastin. OPCs strengthen collagen protein and enhance the ability of collagen to repair itself, helping to protect it against degenerative processes and harmful agents.
  • OPCs bind to collagen and elastin fibers, strengthening and realigning them to a more youthful, undamaged form. This protective action helps to prevent early facial wrinkles caused by sin inelasticity.
  • OPCs protect the skin by protecting the connective tissue from free radical activity; seeing as an internal and external sunscreen protecting the skin cells from UV energy; and helping heal sun-induced redness.

Traveler’s Leg Thrombosis

  • One study found evidence that using OPCs from grape seed extract helps prevent the leg blood clots that can develop on long airplane flights. However: “Our current results show that grape seed proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE) inhibited interleukin-6 release and ICAM-1 expression, which may suggest that prompt administration of GSPE is instrumental to thrombus clearance, removal of venous outflow obstruction, and attenuation of venous endothelium loss in PTS.”
  • , ” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvs.2010.09.017

Varicose Veins

  • The best-documented use of OPCs is to treat chronic venous insufficiency, a condition closely related to varicose veins. In both of these conditions, blood pools in the legs, causing aching, pain, heaviness, swelling, fatigue, and unsightly visible veins. Jung HJ, Choo KS. Pilot study on the effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extracts on inferior vene cava blood flow in patients with chronic venous insufficiency using 4D flow MRI. Medicine (Baltimore). 2022 Nov 18;101(46):e31792. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000031792. PMID: 36401399; PMCID: PMC9678586.
  • Evidence suggests that OPCs from pine bark or grape seed can relieve the leg pain and swelling of chronic venous insufficiency.

Vision

also see Night Vision

  • Vision and the health of the eyes depend to a great extent on the integrity of the fine vessels that supply blood to that area. OPCs strengthen collagen in the fine capillaries of the eyes.
  • Researchers speculate that Lutein, a carotenoid antioxidant included in the OPC Factor formulation, may help prevent macular degeneration by protecting the macular from free radical damage. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-much-lutein-per-day-for-macular-degeneration#lutein-and-zeaxanthin
  • OPC Factor also contains Bilberry — clinically shown to halt the progressive visual loss of dry macular degeneration and possibly even improve visual function.
  • Bilberry may also prove helpful in the treatment of glaucoma by strengthening collagen structures in the eye.
  • All these ingredients are included in Cell Essentials OPC Factor.
  • Nie F, Liu L, Cui J, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Zhou D, Wu J, Li B, Wang T, Li M, Yan M. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 26;12(5):1004. doi: 10.3390/antiox12051004. PMID: 37237870; PMCID: PMC10215713.

Wound Healing

  • Studies Show OPCs help reduce swelling caused by injuries or surgery and in combination with other antioxidants increase the Growth Factor that promotes wound healing. Kim BJ, Park JK, Kim BK, Park SJ, Kim MK, Lee CW, Choi M, Hur JA, Kim SH, Beom J, Kim JY, Oh BM, Choi TH, Kim S. Oligomeric Procyanidins (OPCs) Inhibit Procollagen Type I Secretion of Fibroblasts. Tissue Eng Regen Med. 2017 Mar 14;14(3):297-306. doi: 10.1007/s13770-017-0038-1. PMID: 30603486; PMCID: PMC6171594.

– Molière

Pillott Corp
Average rating:  
 0 reviews