Abstract

Vitis vinifera L. (Vitaceae) has been traditionally employed for the treatment of pain conditions, including abdominal and dental pain, as well as for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This review aims to compile and analyze existing data regarding the traditional applications, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities of V. vinifera. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the Scopus and ScienceDirect databases, resulting in the selection of 93 relevant publications from the period 2017 to 2024. Among the identified bioactive constituents, proanthocyanidins and phenolic compounds have been recognized as major contributors to the plant’s pharmacological effects, which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective (particularly in cognitive disorders), and anticancer activities. The analgesic and antibacterial effects of V. vinifera have been substantiated through both in vitro and in vivo experimental models, primarily attributed to its phenolic content. Furthermore, the development of techniques that promote the strategic production of specific grape compounds is proposed as an alternative practice to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the chemical composition of grapevines.

Key words: Phenolic compounds; Flavonoids; Procyanidins; Proanthocyanidins; Grape; Pain relief; Anti-inflammatory