Add to Cart. Pycnogenol; Pycnogenol. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, improved cognitive function in a clinical trial of 42 older men after 5 weeks of supplementation [23]. Studies have also safely used Pycnogenol in children and during pregnancy. During week, five without, treatment, reduction of cramps was maintained in all three groups. A deficiency can cause issues like anemia, stunted growth, heart problems and neural tube defects. In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs. According to the National Institutes of Health, its safe for adults to take 50 to 450 milligrams of pine bark extract daily for up to one year. There are several causes for erectile dysfunction, such as neurological and psychological issues. In 1534, a French ship led by the famous explorer Jacques Cartier became stranded in ice near Quebec, Canada. In 19 smokers, increased platelet aggregation was more significantly reduced by 200 mg than either 10 mg or 100 mg of Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals. Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. This plant extract also shows promise in such far-flung conditions as traumatic brain injury 40,41, skin problems 37, pain syndromes 38,39, and even tinnitus . This study adds to a body of research showing the benefits of Pycnogenol for improving circulation and blood flow, strengthening the vascular system and managing cholesterol. For mild high blood pressure: 200 milligrams daily. ", Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database web site: "Pycnogenol.". Erectile dysfunction has increased over the past decade or two, creating a pathway for various medications to land on the shelves of numerous medicine cabinets. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. One study involved a four-week treatment period followed by one week of no treatment or observation period. Sort By. Inhibits platelet aggregation like low-dose aspirin. While the aspirin reduced the risk for cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer, among other cancers, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding outweighed those benefits, creating more risks to the body. Pycnogenol is considered safe when taken orally in a dose of 50 to 450 mg per day for one year. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. Research suggests that taking pycnogenol improves mental function and memory in both young adults and the elderly. In a clinical trial of 40 men with erectile dysfunction, 92.5% of the men on this combination regained normal erections after 3 months. The most effective blood sugar-lowering dose was 200 mg/day higher doses had no further benefit [33]. Systolic blood pressure measures how much blood is pumping from your heart to your arteries. Some studies have suggested it may modestly improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. He later extracted proanthocyanidins from the European coastal pine tree, which he named Pycnogenol.. Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? Start with a low dose so you can be sure it doesnt cause any side effects. Consequently, blood pressure is lowered. DOI: Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 50 to 450 milligrams of pine bark extract daily, Supplements During Pregnancy: Whats Safe and Whats Not, The ADHD Diet: What Works and What Does Not, Berberine A Powerful Supplement With Many Benefits, The Top Health Benefits of Prunes and Prune Juice, What to Know About Andrographis Supplements: Potential Benefits and Uses, Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. It may cause side effects such as: Dizziness. Early research shows that taking it at least 5 weeks before the start of allergy season seems to lessen symptoms. In addition to general healthy eating, some specific vitamins and minerals may help improve ADHD. Our science team is put through the strictest vetting process in the health industry and we often reject applicants who have written articles for many of the largest health websites that are deemed trustworthy. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, crossover study, 50 patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) were treated with either L-arginine plus Pycnogenol or placebo for a month. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body . A clinically studied blend of Pycnogenol and a special bilberry extract (called Mirtogenol ) has been shown to provide benefits for vision and eye health. Researchers suggest that it may epigenetically turn off genes responsible for joint damage (ADAMTS) as well as reduce inflammation enzymes (MMP3) and cytokines (IL 1-beta) [47, 48]. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center web site: "About Herbs: Pine Bark Extract. DOI: Marini A, et al. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. Infants and children may not be able to synthesize enough of it, but it is present in many protein-rich . Pycnogenol also potentially improved cognitive function in 78 people with mild cognitive impairment. Another study found this supplement can even halt progression of vision . The study participants symptoms started to return a month after they stopped taking pine bark extract. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Its likely that muscle recovery time improved as well due to the high antioxidants pine bark extract contains. For diseases of the retina, including those related to diabetes: 50 milligrams three times daily. ", American Heart Association: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings., Iranian Journal of Public Health: "Effect of Pycnogenol Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. A study with four groups of 30 patients each were studied: (1) systemic Pycnogenol and local application; (2) local Pycnogenol only; (3) oral Pycnogenol and (4) medications only (control). DOI: Trebatick J, et al. He learned about the seemingly omnipotent antioxidant within it and how those antioxidants increase the absorption of vitamin C. Continued research showed that the pine bark contained flavonols and bioflavonoids, which hold tissue-repairing properties. (10), A 15-year Dutch study was published stating that 27,939 healthy female health professionals were given aspirin or a placebo for a period of time. One way to add some extra flavor and nutrients to your day is by adding prune juice to your diet. In the Pycnogenol-treated group, blood sugar levels were significantly lowered as compared to those not on Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. Studies were conducted in Turkey on subjects who underwent abdominal surgery to determine if the pine bark extract could help reduce the inflammation. This condition can be temporary or permanent however, some studies have indicated that pine bark extract may help alleviate these symptoms due to its high presence of antioxidants. During the first month on L-arginine, only five percent of patients experienced normal erection. Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) improved menopausal symptoms and quality of life in a clinical trial of 35 women after 8 weeks [68]. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. In this study, 155 peri-menopausal women were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Staves Off Infections. The combination of L-arginine and Pycnogenol may help in erectile dysfunction by boosting nitric oxide, which potentially could improve blood flow in men [66]. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in endurance performance of trained athletes. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. A study of 66 healthy adults found that Pycnogenol may reduce the number of leg cramps experienced [11]. Rating: 100%. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. There are also several other natural ADHD remedies you can try. Learn about this tree-based pill and how it might be able to help you. So begins my look at the natural supplement, pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract)benefits. A 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. It can also stabilize mast cells, which release histamine and trigger allergic reactions. According to a study of 11 patients with lupus, pycnogenol may reduce symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative stress [54]. In addition to OPC, grape seed extract contains linoleic acid, flavonoids and phenolic procyanidins that help protect and strengthen capillaries, blood vessels, veins and arteries, which can then improve blood circulation. In combination with Mirtoselect, Pycnogenol may improve blood flow to the eye and reduce eye blood pressure as shown in a trial of 38 people [81]. Possible side effects . In the study, the placebo group had higher IgE antibodies to the birch allergen than those who took Pycnogenol during the allergy season [17]. It also may help those on blood pressure medications to reduce their dose [32]. Natural Factors Pycnogenol 25mg 60 Veggie Caps. However, some of these other pine bark extracts can have different active compounds, which may affect their biological activity. A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. In another study, 45 men with ED were given 1.7 grams of L-arginine a day during the first month, 40 mg Pycnogenol twice daily during the second month, and the dose increased to three 40-mg Pycnogenol doses daily during the third month. Some small studies suggest it may also protect against coronary artery disease and blood clots. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of natures super antioxidants? Reduces Pain. If youre native to Oregon, you likely know all about marionberries. It has been studied for its effects on everything from mental function to treating high blood pressure. ", Journal of Medicinal Food: "Review on Sustained Relief of Osteoarthritis Symptoms with a Proprietary Extract from Pine Bark, Pycnogenol. Help your body fight the effects of normal aging. Both supplements are antioxidants, which have been shown to help with blood flow and erectile function. The standard dose appears to be 100-200 mg/day. Possess Anti-Inflammatory Action. A combination product with Pycnogenol (Lady Prelox) improved sexual function in a clinical trial of 83 healthy postmenopausal women after 8 weeks. Studies have found that when taken along with an inhaler, Pycnogenol can reduce leukotrienes, helping to relieve lung inflammation and limit frequency of inhaler use., Many people develop osteoarthritis as they age. You should also avoid using pine bark extract without talking to your doctor first if you: You should also do additional research or talk to your doctor before taking pine bark extract if you also take: While pine bark extract is a natural supplement, it can have powerful effects on your health, both positive and negative. Here are the many health benefits believed to be possible with Pycnogenol: Now lets dive into the first condition it could help treat. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. Pycnogenol-treated patients reported significant improvement with knee pain, as compared to the placebo group. However, it can also be used topically. Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since its an antioxidant dynamo. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. Pycnogenol treatment led to significantly better improvement in the lung function and asthma symptoms. Almost 400 years later, Dr. Jacques Masquelier from France came across Cartiers account and started to look for the active ingredients from the bark of the tree. . 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Pycnogenol and Pine Bark Extract Supplements. (14, 15). In oneparticular study published in Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers investigated the antibacterial activity of pine bark extract essential oil on staph infections, E. coli and pseudomonas infections. Studies have found that nattokinase thins the blood and dissolves accumulated solids in it. Some health benefits of Pycnogenol include:. Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. In a clinical trial of 92 people with tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, Pycnogenol (100-150 mg/day) helped reduce symptoms and improve blood flow in the ears after 4 weeks [80]. From diabetes and sexual function to sports performance and beautiful skin, pine bark extract may be worth exploring to provide results youre looking to achieve. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Theres evidence that Pycnogenol may be a promising nootropic for various groups of people, including middle-aged professionals, students, and people with mild cognitive decline like brain fog. In one clinical trial of 156 osteoarthritis patients, pycnogenol reduced pain, stiffness, swelling, and improved joint function after 3 months. For allergies: 50 milligrams twice daily. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. (2017). In those treated with Pycnogenol, the edema score was increased by 17.9% versus an increase of 58.3% in the control group. Its best to check with your doctor about the dosage, based on the symptoms you have and other possible conditions, prior to taking either pine bark extract or Pycnogenol. But the actual bioavailability of this complex mixture is still unknown. Pycnogenol in metabolic syndrome and related disorders [Abstract]. Purity and potency of Pycnogenolare continuously monitored . 11 Skin elasticity increased, and skin fatigue decreased significantly in this study as well, further lowering the wrinkling risk. $31.99. It also may help regenerate and maintain vitamin C and E levels while also potentially increasing nitric oxide levels, which may relax and protect blood vessels [1]. Additionally, the results showed that the extract has significant anti-pseudomonas activity, making it a potential natural remedy and possible preventive measure for infections. In a study of 100 healthy women mostly in their early 40s with mild sexual dysfunction, a combination product with Pycnogenol (Lady Prelox) improved sexual function over 8 weeks [74]. They could interact with medicines to suppress the immune system, chemotherapy drugs, and blood thinners. The first studied group included 66 healthy subjects in whom the number of muscle cramps was recorded two weeks before entering the study and during the fourth and fifth week. It also reduced the size of scars. Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. A trial of 84 people found that both Pycnogenol oral supplements and creams (0.5%) may prevent hemorrhoids from bleeding during acute attacks after 7 days. A trial of 132 people found that Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may improve risk factors of metabolic syndrome including lowering triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and fasting glucose, decreasing waist circumference, and increasing HDL cholesterol levels [29]. Plus, it reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol. Extracts can also be made from other pine barks, such as Pinus radiata, Pinus densiflora, Pinus thunbergii, and Pinus massoniana. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. Lowers Blood Pressure. For most people, pine bark extract doesnt cause any side effects. Who doesnt want amazing skin? Pycnogenol is similar to grape seed extract and cocoa polyphenols as those are the three most common . In mice, luteolin prevented inflammation and allergic response in the lungs and nose by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines: IL-4, IL-5, and IL-1 3 []. Pycnogenol has several benefits to your health and beauty. Pine bark extract provides many benefits to the skin, including reducing the signs of aging. Another clinical trial of 76 people with allergic asthma also suggests that Pycnogenol may reduce IgE antibodies and asthma symptoms [18, 16]. All rights reserved. A study was conducted by the Guang An Men Hospital of Chinese Medical Science Research Institutewith 77 diabetes type II patients to determine if theextract of the French Maritime pine bark provided anti-diabetic effects. Take Helpful Supplements. Pine bark extract has been studied with regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. Most anal fissures heal with home treatment after a few days or weeks. Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. It can also be used for local application on the skin without the risk of side effects. Disease of the retina in the eye. In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. What gives pine bark extract its notoriety as a powerful ingredient and super antioxidant is that its loaded with oligomeric proanthocyanidin compounds, OPCs for short. Grape seed extract may be more beneficial for those who are obese. In a study of 20 postmenopausal women, 12 weeks of pycnogenol supplementation improved hydration and elasticity of the skin. In a good-quality study, 100 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were treated for three months either with 150 mg of Pycnogenol a day or placebo. (2004). DOI: Dvorkov M, et al. Trees of this pine have been naturalized in Australia and New Zealand, where most Enzogenol is now made [7]. This article explains which supplements are believed to be safe during pregnancy and which ones you should avoid. The Benefits of DIM. Frustrated by the lack of good information and tools, Joe decided to embark on a learning journey to decode his DNA and track his biomarkers in search of better health. A study of 147 people found that pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may improve running, push-ups, and sit-ups endurance in recreational athletes over an 8-week training program. In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. The positive improvements in symptoms were greater among those taking Pycnogenol. (2006). Work with your pediatrician to see if there are contraindications for each child. Another 2006 study examined the effects of the antioxidant activity of pine bark extract on oxidative stress, which is thought to be one of the nongenetic factors contributing to ADHD. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. In a study of 50 overweight people, a combination product (Pycnogenol, Madeglucyl, and starches called Glucaffect) reduced weight, BMI, blood glucose, and HbA1C after 8 weeks [30]. Can you get pycnogenol naturally from foods? A 2015 review indicates that pine bark extract can be used to treat metabolic syndrome and related disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. whole-body health. (7). Pycnogenol is a patented formulation of Pine Bark Extract which is standardized to 65-75% Procyanidin compounds by weight. DOI: Gulati OP. . You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. Ginkgo biloba has been widely cultivated across the globe for a variety of uses, most of which are medicinal. Moreover, Pycnogenol group either reduced or discontinued the use of asthma drugs. We are dedicated to providing the most scientifically valid, unbiased, and comprehensive information on any given topic. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. is a clickable link to peer-reviewed scientific studies. The treatment was four 50 mg capsules of Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. $47.99. It also appeared to improve their attention span, visual motor skills, and concentration. The same ingredient can be found in grapeseed oil, the skin of peanuts and witch hazel bark. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. One study of 211 found that Pycnogenol may help prevent edema and ankle swelling from long flights [27]. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine what a safe and effective dose of lysine is for specific conditions. A study of 32 people with heart failure lasting 12 weeks suggests that a combination of Pycnogenol with CoQ10 (PycnoQ10) may improve blood pressure, heart function, edema, and capacity for physical activity [40]. Chemistry. L-arginine is more effective when paired with L-citrulline or pycnogenol to combat erectile dysfunction and improve exercise performance. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. Researchers suggest it may boost sustained attention, memory, executive functions, mood, and reduce oxidative stress [19]. 5 6 However, evidence is conflictingother studies have shown no effect on the same measures. All rights reserved. Its true. However, its unclear how clinically effective Pycnogenol is for most of these conditions due to the low quality of evidence. Pycnogenol has given indications that it might be able to benefit heart and artery health, to include reducing high blood pressure. chronic anal fissure may take more than 6 weeks to heal. A 2011 study by Dr. G. Belcaro concluded, " Pycnogenol administration was effective for better control of signs and symptoms of allergic asthma and reduced the need for medication". Some research suggests that procyanidins may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. are clickable links to these studies. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. DIM and other plant indoles are found in . Pycnogenol completely normalized function. Pycnogenol is a patented extract of the French maritime pine bark (Pinus pinaster). According to a meta-analysis of 9 trials including 549 people, 150-200 mg/day for at least 12 weeks may reduce both diastolic and systolic blood pressure [36]. blood in the urine. 4 Items . You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. A trial of 86 people with eye damage from diabetes found that antioxidant therapy (including pycnogenol, vitamin E, and Coenzyme Q10) may improve eye health and reduce reactive oxygen species levels [35]. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. All included participants had subclinical cognitive impairment, which looks like typical brain fog [22]. Are there any risks to taking it? In long-haul flights, Pycnogenol could be an effective prevention for blood clots. Diarrhea. In a study of 77 people with symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) improved symptoms and reduced the frequency of attacks [77].
