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Interest in using natural products to increase health and vitality continues to gain popularity in both human and veterinary medicine. A variety of herbs, supplements, prebiotics, and probiotics are currently being investigated for future use in equine nutrition. Grape seed extract (GSE) is among these novel supplements, touting anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, among other advantages.

According to a recent review*, GSE is primarily a by-product of the winemaking industry. GSEs contain high levels of polyphenolic compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and stilbenes, as well as fat-soluble ingredients such as vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Like the bulk of other natural remedies, clinical studies supporting the efficacy and safety of GSE are either lacking or contradictory, yet laboratory data frequently support their use.

In an earlier study in horses**, GSEs appeared safe when fed to horses. No obvious adverse events occurred, and beneficial effects on hindgut fermentation were noted. A more recent study+ supported the positive impact of GSE on hindgut fermentation in horses when fed up to 4% dry matter intake.

Despite these positive results, research pertaining to GSE remains in its infancy as type of grape used, the process by which the oils are extracted, and the exact roles of each of the oil components must be considered.

In the meantime, EquiShure can be offered to any horse suffering from or at risk of hindgut acidosis, including those offered high-starch or high-sugar (fructan) diets such as concentrates and lush pastures. For general antioxidant support, consider Nano•E, a natural water-soluble source of vitamin E for horses.

*Garavaglia, J., M.M. Markoski, A. Oliveira, et al. 2016. Grape seed oil compounds: Biological and chemical actions for health. Nutrition and Metabolism Insights. 9:59–64.

**Davies, J.A., G.L. Krebs, A. Barnes, et al. 2009. Feeding grape seed extract to horses: Effects on health, intake and digestion. Animal. 3(3):380-384.

+Huntley, N.F., H.D. Naumann, A.L. Kenny et al. Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) and domestic horse (Equus caballus) hindgut microflora demonstrate similar fermentation responses to grape seed extract supplementation in vitro. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (Berl). In press.

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