ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL INSIGHTS INTO VITIS VINIFERA (GRAPE): A PLANT WITH MULTIFUNCTIONAL THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

Vitis vinifera (Vitaceae), commonly known as grape, represents a dynamic interface between traditional medicine, functional nutrition, and modern molecular pharmacology. Historically valued in Ayurveda, Unani, and Mediterranean healing systems as a cardiotonic and rejuvenating fruit, it has gained renewed scientific interest due to its dense and diverse polyphenolic composition. Grapes contain bioactive constituents including resveratrol, proanthocyanidins, catechins, quercetin, anthocyanins, tannins, and phenolic acids, which collectively contribute to broad-spectrum biological activities. Rather than functioning solely as radical scavengers, these phytochemicals act as modulators of cellular signaling networks. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that grape-derived compounds exert cardioprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anticancer, and anti-aging effects. Mechanistically, these benefits are mediated through activation of Nrf2-dependent antioxidant responses, inhibition of NF-κB-driven inflammation, regulation of mitochondrial integrity, modulation of PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways, enhancement of endothelial nitric oxide bioavailability, and control of apoptosis-related proteins. Such multitarget interactions position Vitis vinifera within the framework of systems and network pharmacology, addressing interconnected oxidative, inflammatory, and metabolic disturbances underlying chronic diseases. Recent advances in formulation science, including standardized grape seed extracts, nanoencapsulated resveratrol, phytosome complexes, and functional nutraceutical platforms, have improved stability, absorption, and translational relevance. However, challenges persist in extract standardization, pharmacokinetic optimization, dose harmonization, and large-scale clinical validation. This review integrates ethnopharmacological insights with contemporary molecular evidence to highlight Vitis vinifera as a multifunctional, mechanism-driven botanical candidate with promising potential in integrative and preventive healthcare strategies worldwide, particularly for chronic inflammatory and metabolic disorders.