Comparison of the antioxidant effects of D-002 (beeswax alcohols) and grape seed extract (GSE) on plasma oxidative variables in healthy subjects

Abstract

Increased oxidative stress is implicated in several diseases. D-002, a mixture of six higher
\naliphatic alcohols purified from beeswax, and grape seed extract (GSE) (rich in flavonoids), have been
\nshown antioxidant effects. This randomised, double-blinded study compared the effects of both substances
\non plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), total hydroxyperoxides (TOH), carbonyl groups (CG) and blood superoxide
\ndismutase (SOD) in healthy volunteers. Fifty eligible subjects were randomized to D-002 (50
\nmg/day) or GSE (85 mg proanthocianydine/day) for 8 weeks. Both D-002 and GSE reduced significantly
\nplasma MDA (30.0% and 34.0%, respectively), TOH (31.6% and 34.0%, respectively) and CG (21.4% and
\n14.3 %, respectively), but unchanged SOD. No significant differences between groups were found. Both
\ntreatments were well tolerated. No subject dropped out because of adverse experiences (AE). Then, D-002
\nand GSE administered for 8 weeks were similarly effective for lowering plasma markers of lipid and protein
\noxidation, and similarly safe.