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. Pycnogenol may help with other conditions as well. Here are the many health benefits believed to be possible with Pycnogenol: Reduces "leaky" blood vessels by making the wall proteins (collagen, elastin) more resistant to damage. (2017). Another study in 2012 showed that Pycnogenol alone, at a dose of 75 mg/day, increased skin hydration by 8% after just 6 weeks; in women with dry skin at baseline the increase was 21%. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. The studies revealed that the sperm concentration greatly increased after about eight to 16 weeks of treatment, to include improved orgasmic function. Furthermore, when CHS was suppressed by 71% with exogenous treatment with cis-urocanic acid, the putative epidermal mediator of photoimmunosuppression, 0.2% Pycnogenol lotion reduced the immunosuppression to 18%. Today, I want to share with you my secrets to reduce sugar Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. The most effective blood sugar-lowering dose was 200 mg/day higher doses had no further benefit [33]. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications. So begins my look at the natural supplement, pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract)benefits. Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. ", Journal of Medicinal Food: "Review on Sustained Relief of Osteoarthritis Symptoms with a Proprietary Extract from Pine Bark, Pycnogenol. SelfDecode is a personalized health report service, 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. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol [Abstract]. Lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease. COPD. It is chronic venous insufficiency, a common disease among people who are obese or elderly and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. This study adds to a body of research showing the benefits of Pycnogenol . After stopping Pycnogenol for one month, symptoms 1) Encourages Healthy Blood Pressure. However, with the addition of twice-daily Pycnogenol, normal erection increased to 80%, which further increased to 92.5% during the third month on thrice-daily Pycnogenol. Berberine is a compound extracted from several plants. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. Pine bark extract can help reduce muscle soreness and may help improve conditions relating to poor circulation, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, diabetes, ADHD, female reproductive issues, skin, erectile dysfunction, eye disease and sports stamina. Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . There's good evidence that pycnogenol helps with eye damage caused by diabetes. A 2017 review reported on the many benefits of using pine bark extract to reduce the effects of aging on skin. Optimal doses of pycnogenol have not been set for any condition. 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. This supplement possibly activates the immune system. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. Pycnogenol lowered leukotrienes as well. 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. In another study, Pycnogenol increased glutathione levels and total antioxidants after a month in children with ADHD [42, 43]. Diabetic retinopathy is a type of eye injury caused by complications from diabetes. It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. (13). For children with ADHD, research suggests that symptoms start to return after about a month without taking maritime pine, so taking periodic breaks shouldnt make it any less effective. For mild high blood pressure: 200 milligrams daily. 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]. According to the lab results of 10 volunteers, a higher Pycnogenol dose (300 mg) may impact these enzymes after just 30 minutes [52]. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. This review noted that pine bark extract may also help with: In addition to its skin-healing properties, pine bark extract also shows promise for helping children manage ADHD symptoms. Two studies illustrate the possibilities: One was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in which 26 asthmatic patients were given either a maximum of 200 mg a day of Pycnogenol or placebo for the first period of four weeks and then crossed over to the alternate treatment for the next four weeks. Forty patients were treated with either 600 mg chestnut seed extract a day or 360 mg Pycnogenol a day over a period of four weeks. It can also be used for local application on the skin without the risk of side effects. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment led to an increase in sperm count and testosterone levels with lowering of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Its used as a natural supplement for several conditions, including dry skin and ADHD. Pycnogenol health benefits. Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. are clickable links to these studies. - Please read carefully and implement principles included in the Health Recovery Plan. Pycnogenol acts as a sustained-release formulation. According to a study of 170 women, low-dose pycnogenol (60 mg/day) may improve menopausal symptoms over 3 months, including night sweats, hot flashes, insomnia and sleep problems [69]. In one study, 200 mg a day of Pycnogenol taken three hours prior to the first cigarette for the day for two months significantly reduced cigarette-induced platelet aggregation. Possible side effects . Luckily, the Native Americans told them about a tea prepared from the bark of a certain tree, which miraculously led to complete recovery. (4). painful urination. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 50 Tablets . All included participants had subclinical cognitive impairment, which looks like typical brain fog [22]. 2. According to some researchers, when you take Pycnogenol [8]: Research suggests that Pycnogenol may protect cells in the body against oxidative stress. One study suggests that Pycnogenol has no effect when given just 3 weeks beforehand, as it possibly requires a lag time to stabilize the immune response [17]. Pycnogenol, an extract of French maritime pine bark, helps the body fight normal aging by supporting vascular health and healthy circulation. Add to Cart. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. A study of 30 women found that Pycnogenol (75 mg/day) may reduce the skin area affected by melasma as well as lower symptoms of fatigue, constipation, body pain, and anxiety [62]. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. Another clinical trial of 76 people with allergic asthma also suggests that Pycnogenol may reduce IgE antibodies and asthma symptoms [18, 16]. Side Effects of Pycnogenol. In one study, people with high blood pressure were examined to see how the supplement impacted their blood pressure. Pycnogenol has four main components that contribute to its benefits for men's health. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. Thirty patients with diabetic ulcers were treated with 150 mg Pycnogenol daily for four weeks and another group of 30 comparable patients received no treatment. For diseases of the retina, including those related to diabetes: 50 milligrams three times daily. Pine bark extract can make a great addition to your nutritional arsenal for its potent antioxidant support, as well as its added support for blood flow, blood sugar, inflammation, immunity, brain function and skin support. According to some researchers, Pycnogenol may lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, reducing free radicals, and lowering inflammation. Help your body fight the effects of normal aging. However, it can also be used topically. While pine bark extract is thought to be safe for children, they should only take it for a few weeks at a time. This key chemical, proanthocyanidin, is also found in high concentrations in apples, cranberries, coca, grapes, and red wine. Learn about all the potential benefits of Pycnogenol and find out which ones are most supported by science. Eighty-six patients were treated either with Pycnogenol at 150 mg or 300 mg daily or the drugs diosmin and hesperidin (Daflon)at 1,000 mg daily for two months. (2006). In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. In addition to general healthy eating, some specific vitamins and minerals may help improve ADHD. A 10 week clinical trial with 30 children shows that Pycnogenol may improve symptoms of Crohns disease. 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". Today's Dietitian: "Pycnogenol Supplement Offers Promise for Managing a Variety of Conditions." The staff there can often answer any questions you have and give you more information about specific brands. Add to Cart. Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins . 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. A small 2012 study on postmenopausal women found that pine bark extract improved hydration and elasticity of skin. (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. Helps Treat Erectile Dysfunction. A randomized clinical trial of 30 people found that Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may help heal vein ulcers from surgery and reduce swelling after 3 months of treatment [25]. The treatment was four 50 mg capsules of Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol improved symptoms, circulation, and reduced complications in 156 people with deep vein thrombosis (blot clots in deep leg veins) in a 12-month study. This can cause pain, especially in areas of the body that are used repeatedly, like your hands, fingers, and knees. We don't yet know what the best dose to use is, but studies have used two 50 mg Pycnogenol capsules per day. But what makes this miracle ingredient so amazing? Vinpocetine is a well-known substance in the health-hacking community with a variety of claimed health benefits. 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. Helps Increase Athletic Performance. Score one for diabetes control and fewer risk factors for the heart. Next, the doctors discuss the link between salt and hypertension, and Dr. Steve gives his insight on drinking red wine for a healthy heart. Some studies also suggest it can help guard against coronary artery disease and blood clots, per webmd.com. Various brands of pycnogenol are available. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. Still, more research is needed to better understand these findings and pine bark extracts role in reducing damage from head trauma. Tongkat ali is an herbal remedy suggested to treat various ailments, including low testosterone and male infertility. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. It also may increase the activity of genes that make collagen and hyaluronic acid in the body [64]. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Used early on, it may prevent eye damage and blindness from diabetes [34]. Low-dose Pycnogenol (30 mg/day) may reduce pain in pregnant women, particularly hip, joint, lower back, groin, and calf cramps in the third trimester [71]. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. A new peer-reviewed study, published in the Bratislava Medical Journal, shows that daily supplementation with the natural antioxidant, Pycnogenol, a French maritime pine bark extract, can improve the symptoms of ED.. The flesh of the grape contains approximately 1/20th-1/100th of the total antioxidant capacity of the seed or the skin. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. Proper nutrition is essential for ADHD treatment. 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]. ( 4) Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. Disease of the retina in the eye. A trial of 53 students found that pycnogenol may improve cognitive function, memory, attention, mood, and mental performance after 8 weeks [20]. However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. It also lessened the amount of asthma medication they needed. It does this by improving the time it takes the body to reach a fatigued state through increased serum NAD+ levels. Normalization of cardiovascular risk factors in peri-menopausal women with Pycnogenol [Abstract]. Pycnogenol and Pine Bark Extract Supplements. In another good study, 48 patients with diabetes and high blood pressure on ACE inhibitors were randomized to receive either Pycnogenol 125 mg daily or placebo for 12 weeks. Most have similar amounts of active substances and are often sold under the brand name Pycnogenol [6]. Early research shows that taking it at least 5 weeks before the start of allergy season seems to lessen symptoms. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. $47.99. A study of 58 people with high blood pressure suggests that even lower doses (100 mg/day) may improve blood vessel health and reduce markers of high blood pressure (endothelin-1) after 12 weeks. Pycnogenol alleviated adverse effects in cancer patients, Pycnogenol improved working memory in older adults, Pycnogenol lowered the use of analgesic drugs in dysmenorrhea (severe menstrual pain), Pycnogenol reduced symptoms in endometriosis comparable to leuprorelin, the standard drug for this condition, Pycnogenol was found to be effective for sun-caused hyperpigmented skin, Pycnogenol reduced the inflammation in lupus patients, Pycnogenol reduced gingival bleeding and plaque formation. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced pain in a study of 100 people with osteoarthritis after 3 months. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals. 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 []. It may cause side effects such as: Risks. In long-haul flights, Pycnogenol could be an effective prevention for blood clots. Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. SelfDecode does not treat, diagnose or cure any conditions, Pycnogenol-treated patients had significant improvement in symptoms as well as a reduction in leg swelling as compared to those not receiving treatment. Pycnogenol treatment led to significantly better improvement in the lung function and asthma symptoms. Enzogenol also may reduce mental fatigue and sleep problems [82]. A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. Plus, it reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol. In a good-quality study, 77 patients with osteoarthritis were treated with 100 mg of Pycnogenol daily and 79 patients were treated with placebo for three months. Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 100 Tablets. Unlike drug manufacturers, the makers of supplements dont have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. For allergies: 50 milligrams twice daily. 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. The antibacterial activity was assessed indicating that the essential oil of pine bark, specifically the proanthocyanidins, were effective against P. aeruginosa, significantly inhibiting its growth. The women taking Pycnogenol also experienced improvement in fatigue, sleep, concentration, memory, dizziness, and mood, including less irritability. For most people, pine bark extract doesn't cause any side effects. In clinical research, doses up to about 300 mg/day have been used for up to one year without major safety concerns [33, 37]. The remaining compounds are phenolic acids, which may also have antioxidant activity [1, 2]. American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". Pycnogenol is a standardized supplement formula guaranteed to contain at least 65-75% proanthocyanidins, the active . (7). 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. Pine bark extract provides many benefits to the skin, including reducing the signs of aging. ( 1) 2. Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. Forty-seven Japanese men with mild erectile dysfunction were given supplementation L-arginine and French maritime pine bark extract over a period of time. A review was conducted of French maritimepine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine what a safe and effective dose of lysine is for specific conditions. One way to add some extra flavor and nutrients to your day is by adding prune juice to your diet. Ana spent years working with patients who suffer from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. These antioxidants scavenge those damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. The 2012 study on the anti-aging benefits of Pycnogenol is commonly-cited by anti-aging supplement manufacturers. However, this was a relatively small study, so larger ones are needed to fully understand pine bark extracts role in these findings. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center web site: "About Herbs: Pine Bark Extract. DOI: Marini A, et al. Pine bark extract has been studied with regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. Pine bark extract is usually taken by mouth in capsule form. But, as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. There are also several other natural ADHD remedies you can try. With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. (14, 15). Pycnogenol was gradually increased to 120 mg/day over this time period, while the l-arginine was maintained at 1.7 g/day throughout. The goal of one study was to evaluate whether or not Pycnogenol could prevent edema (fluid build-up) during long-haul flights in healthy people. Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? For asthma in children: 1 milligram per pound of body weight given in two divided doses. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. 1 Anti-Aging Beverage, An surprisingstudy found that pine bark extract was far better than aspirin at inhibiting smoking-induced clotting, using lower amounts without the bleeding often found when using aspirin. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. 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. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. Rating: 100%. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 60 patients aged six to 18 years old, was conducted over three months during which patients were randomly assigned to receive either Pycnogenol or placebo. (2004). Pycnogenol led to a reduction of muscle cramps from 4.8 a week to 1.3 at week four. Results showed that one month of Pycnogenol led to a significant reduction of hyperactivity with improvement in attention and visual-motor coordination and concentration, as compared to no positive effects in the placebo group. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. If youre wondering how to get an even skin tone, there are plenty of remedies that can help. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. The review found evidence that pine bark extract may: Similar to its neuroprotective benefits, the metabolic benefits of pine bark extract seem to be related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pycnogenol supplementation reduced skin redness from UV rays in a trial of 21 people over 8 weeks. - Apply a hot compress to the anus or soaking it in a shallow tub of hot water several times a day. Systolic blood pressure measures how much blood is pumping from your heart to your arteries. She loves communicating science and empowering people to achieve their optimal health. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. It should never be used as a replacement for approved medical therapies. Eliminate blood clots. Trees of this pine have been naturalized in Australia and New Zealand, where most Enzogenol is now made [7]. If a blood clot blocks the normal blood flow, it is known as thrombosis. Several studies show how Pycnogenol helps block platelet formation and thus helps prevent thrombosis. Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since its so high in powerful antioxidants. However, a study of 24 adults with ADHD found that pycnogenol did not improve ADHD symptoms better than placebo. 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. Boost gastrointestinal health. It also reduced the size of scars. The top benefits of nattokinase include the following: Regulate blood pressure. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. Read More: Health Benefits of Peanut Butter. Researchers suggest this benefit may be due to an increase in glutathione and SOD, two antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in Crohns [76]. While OPCs found in this extract are mostly known for their antioxidant-producing benefits, these amazing compounds exude antibacterial, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Two doses of 100 mg of Pycnogenol were taken two to three hours before flights and two additional capsules taken six hours later then one capsule the next day. Our science team must pass long technical science tests, difficult logical reasoning and reading comprehension tests. Studies have found that nattokinase thins the blood and dissolves accumulated solids in it. Here are some basic guidelines as reported by WebMD: While most studies do not indicate major side effects, pine bark extract may cause irritability and fatigue, and could interact with other drugs. 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. All rights reserved. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. However, research on these two groups is limited [71, 15]. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Becoming a Vegetarian: Foods to Choose From. It also appeared to improve their attention span, visual motor skills, and concentration. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. There are several causes for erectile dysfunction, such as neurological and psychological issues. 4. In another trial, a combination supplement (Pycnogenol 60 mg/day, L-arginine 690 mg/day and aspartic acid 552 mg/day) improved erectile dysfunction and sexual satisfaction in men after 8 weeks. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. 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]. The study concluded that Pycnogenol can prevent cramps, muscular pain at rest, and pain after/during exercise healthy people or those with diabetes or claudication. However, some of these other pine bark extracts can have different active compounds, which may affect their biological activity. , Improves Symptoms Associated With Menopause, A number of women experience physical discomfort due to symptoms of menopause. Pycnogenol reduced foot swelling in 79% of the patients, versus one percent in the placebo group. Pycnogenol pine bark extracts contain a unique blend of flavonoids whose antioxidant action is over is 50 times more powerful than vitamin E, 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 16 times more active than grapeseed extracts.