If you have heard that red wine can, among other benefits, help lower cholesterol, chances are you have heard of resveratrol - the much hyped plant compound found in the drink.

But in addition to being a healthy part of red wine and other foods, resveratrol has health potential.

In fact, the substance has been associated with many interesting benefits, including protecting brain function and lowering blood pressure.

What is resveratrol

Resveratrol is a plant compound that acts as a antioxidant The main food sources include red wine, grapes, some fruits, and peanuts. This compound tends to be concentrated mainly in the skins and seeds of grapes. These parts of the grape are included in the fermentation of red wine, hence its high concentration of resveratrol.

However, much of the research on the substance has been conducted in animals and test tubes. Of the limited research on humans, most has focused on supplemental forms, in higher concentrations than could be obtained through food. That said, learn about the benefits of resveratrol.

Read also: Wine: Benefits and how to drink it

Resveratrol: What it is used for

Helps to lower pressure

Because of its antioxidant properties, resveratrol may be a promising addition to blood pressure reduction. Thus, a 2015 review concluded that high doses can help reduce the pressure exerted on artery walls when the heart beats.

This type of pressure is called systolic blood pressure and appears as the top number in blood pressure readings.

Systolic blood pressure generally increases with age, as the arteries harden. When high, it is a risk factor for heart disease. Resveratrol can achieve this blood pressure lowering effect by helping to produce more nitric oxide, which causes the blood vessels to relax.

However, the authors of this study say that more research is needed before specific recommendations can be made.

Resveratrol reduces blood fat

Several studies have suggested that resveratrol supplements may alter blood fats in a healthy way. A 2016 research study fed rats a diet high in protein and polyunsaturated fats and also gave them resveratrol supplements. The researchers found that the rats' average total cholesterol levels and body weight decreased and their levels of "good"HDL cholesterol increased.

Therefore, the compound appears to influence cholesterol levels by reducing the effect of an enzyme that controls cholesterol production. As an antioxidant, it may also decrease the oxidation of the "bad" LDL cholesterol. LDL oxidation contributes to the buildup of plaque on artery walls.

Protects the brain

It is not new that it has been suggested that drinking red wine in moderation may help slow age-related cognitive decline. This may be partly due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of resveratrol.In addition, it can trigger a chain of events that protects brain cells from damage.

However, while this research is intriguing, scientists still have questions about how well the human body is able to use supplemental resveratrol, which limits its immediate use as a supplement to protect the brain.

Can relieve joint pain

Arthritis is a common affliction that leads to joint pain and loss of mobility. Herbal supplements are being studied as a way to treat and prevent joint pain. Thus, when taken as a supplement, resveratrol can help protect cartilage from deterioration. Cartilage breakdown can cause joint pain and is one of the main symptomsOne study injected resveratrol into the knee joints of rabbits with arthritis and found that these rabbits suffered less cartilage damage.

Also read: Wine and chocolate can help prevent serious diseases