As you’ve probably heard by now, antioxidants are good for our health. They prevent damage from free radicals, damaging substances that are constantly being formed in our bodies. If free radicals are not quenched, then they can cause damage to our body cells, arteries and organs.

Antioxidants can help prevent this damage before it begins. While there are numerous antioxidant vitamins and minerals, and there are also antioxidant herbs that can help in the fight against free radicals. Here are some antioxidant herbs that can help protect our body and keep us healthy:

Green Tea: Green tea, a staple beverage in China and part of traditional medicine systems in various Asian countries, has become more popular today because of its health benefits. Green tea is primarily used as an antioxidant and to help maintain heart health. The antioxidant effects of green tea are a result of its role in reducing the oxidation of LDL (`bad`) cholesterol, which, in turn, can help maintain a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. Green tea contains flavonoids that contribute to the antioxidant capabilities of green tea to help protect the heart. Green tea extract has also shown to potentially have anti-cancer actions as well. The catechins and polyphenols may contribute to the anti-carcinogenic properties of green tea by preventing the formation of certain damaging substances. A standardized extract of green tea is recommended.

Grape Seed: Grape seed is derived from the seeds and skins of red grapes and contains flavonoids, such as proanthocyanidins or PCO’s, that are powerful antioxidants. In addition to their antioxidant properties, PCO’s in grape seed extract have also shown to improve blood circulation and help to strengthen blood vessels. This is important for individuals with conditions such as: varicose veins, leg cramps, arm or leg numbness, and even diabetes. Grape seed extract may be helpful for those with vascular (vessel) disorders, and may benefit from an increase in blood flow. Grape seed extract may also be beneficial for inflammatory conditions in the skin, such as eczema or psoriasis. The PCO’s in grape seed extract help to keep certain constituents within skin (i.e. collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid) healthy, by blocking certain enzymes that may disrupt or destroy their chemical structure. Grape seed extract is a powerful antioxidant with numerous health benefits. The suggested dose of grape seed extract for general health is 100 milligrams daily, or for therapeutic effects 100 mg twice daily.

Milk Thistle: Milk thistle has been used for years in Europe to treat liver and biliary tract disorders. Silymarin, the active constituent in milk thistle, works by altering the outer structure of liver cell membranes. Therefore, toxic substances are blocked from entering and damaging the liver. Silymarin in milk thistle also helps to protect the liver through its antioxidant action. It takes part in neutralizing free radicals that cause damage to our liver. A dry milk thistle extract standardized to 70% silymarin is recommended. Individuals taking medications metabolized by liver may need to adjust their medications when taking milk thistle. One report has noted that an ingredient of milk thistle, silybilin, can inhibit a bacterial enzyme that helps oral contraceptives work. Therefore, milk thistle may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. It is important for women on oral contraceptives to consult their health care provider before taking milk thistle.

Bilberry: Standardized extracts of bilberry is primarily used to treat circulatory and vascular (vessel) disorders and to promote eye health. Bilberry has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and can help strengthen capillaries and stabilize collagen in the skin. Bilberry blocks certain enzymes that may disrupt or destroy collagen structure, which is important for maintaining healthy skin. Bilberry’s antioxidant properties are important for eye health. Most research on bilberry has shown positive effects for various eye conditions, including day/night vision and retinopathy, and vascular disorders such as venous insufficiency and peripheral vascular disorders. A dry standardized extract of bilberry standardized to 25% anthocyanidins at a dosage of 80-160 milligrams taken 3 times daily is recommended.