Resveratrol, molecular model. Resveratrol is a hydroxylated analogue of trans-stilbene. The compound is produced by a range of plants in response to attack by various pathogens. Resveratrol has been promoted as a dietary supplement that may have positive effects on human health and lifespan. Numerous studies, however, have failed to show any conclusive evidence for this assertion. Atoms are colour-coded: carbon is black; hydrogen is white; oxygen is red.