Resveratrol, a polyphenol compound found in red wine, has been touted as a genuine anti-aging treatment. A comprehensive review of human clinical research on resveratrol has found it has "anti-aging, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties," but more research of its benefits is needed, the lead researcher, Dr Heather Hausenblas said. Various studies indicate that this polyphenol -- an antibiotic substance produced by plants as a defense against microorganisms -- prevents the growth of some cancers in mice, inhibits enzymes that cause inflammation, shrinks tumors and increases blood flow, thus reducing cardiovascular diseases. In many cases, it also extends the life of obese animals.
