Posted on Thursday, August 14, 2014 The majority of this article is information obtained from the book "All About DIM" by Michael A. Zeligs, MD and A. Scott Connelly, MD. Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe for Weight Loss? Pycnogenol has four main components that contribute to its benefits for men's health. 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. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. We take a look at what the science actually says. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center web site: "About Herbs: Pine Bark Extract. 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. Pycnogenol-treated subjects experienced an improvement in all menopausal symptoms. As noted, aspirin can cause severe gastrointestinal issues. Pycnogenol may have benefits for heart and artery health. (1, 2). Pine bark extract can be found in liquid, tablet or capsule form containing 85 percent to 90 percent OPCs. Learn about all the potential benefits of Pycnogenol and find out which ones are most supported by science. Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. Last medically reviewed on January 24, 2018. In another study, Pycnogenol increased glutathione levels and total antioxidants after a month in children with ADHD [42, 43]. Benefits, Nutrition, Uses & How It Compares vs. Blackberries. Some people who have asthma have higher levels of leukotrienes in their blood. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. It has been studied for its effects on everything from mental function to treating high blood pressure. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since its so high in powerful antioxidants. There are also several other natural ADHD remedies you can try. 2. While much of this is positive, it will be a while before doctors routinely recommend this dietary supplement for these conditions. In a study of 33 people with severe osteoarthritis, pycnogenol (200 mg/day) reduced inflammatory markers after 3 weeks. The Best Supplements for Healthy Digestion, How to Get the Protective Power of Vitamin K. According to a study of 11 patients with lupus, pycnogenol may reduce symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative stress [54]. As a skin cream, its safe to use for about seven days. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. More specifically, because it strengthens the capillaries in the retina, Mirtogenol can help prevent retinopathy. Studies have found that supplementing with pycnogenol effectively strengthens the blood vessels, stabilizing blood pressure. 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. Dr. Eric L. Zielinski is a sought-after natural . A 10 week clinical trial with 30 children shows that Pycnogenol may improve symptoms of Crohns disease. Sort By. Mental function. It is found primarily in southwestern France and is used to help people with asthma, allergies, hay fever, and other health conditions.. 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. Enzogenol also may reduce mental fatigue and sleep problems [82]. Lowers Blood Pressure. It is standardized to contain 65-75% procyanidins, a class of polyphenols and flavonoids like those found in blueberries, wine, grape skin, citrus, and cocoa. 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. However, its unclear how clinically effective Pycnogenol is for most of these conditions due to the low quality of evidence. According to a study in 59 cancer patients, Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may reduce side effects associated with radiation or chemotherapy, including mouth soreness and ulcers, mouth and eye dryness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss [78]. DIM and other plant indoles are found in . Staves Off Infections. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark name for a French formula. Its true. Pycnogenol and Pine Bark Extract Supplements. $47.99. There's good evidence that pycnogenol helps with eye damage caused by diabetes. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using pycnogenol supplements. Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. Research suggests that taking pycnogenol improves mental function and memory in both young adults and the elderly. In a study of 61 ADHD children, pycnogenol reduced hyperactivity, improved attention, and motorics after 1 month. Systolic blood pressure measures how much blood is pumping from your heart to your arteries. 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. Boost gastrointestinal health. When pycnogenol cream was added to oral supplements in a small study of 18 people with vein ulcers, it helped ulcers heal more quickly [26]. First and foremost, start eating an anti-inflammatory Local Raw Honey (Bee Pollen) Considering how good it tastes, having some raw honey Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) You can now find high-quality apple cider vinegar in . 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 []. Make sure to seek out the advice of your physician prior to using pine bark extract or the branded name, Pycnogenol. High levels of both of these are considered risk factors for heart disease. 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]. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease caused primarily by tobacco use. Pycnogenol: A miracle component in reducing ageing and skin disorders. Vertigo. In a clinical trial of 40 men with erectile dysfunction, 92.5% of the men on this combination regained normal erections after 3 months. Purity and potency of Pycnogenolare continuously monitored . The treatment was four 50 mg capsules of Pycnogenol. The effects of the pine bark extract showed significant lower levels of blood glucose and improved endothelial function when compared to placebo, concluding that supplementation of Pycnogenol for treating conventional diabetes may be beneficial. Millions are hospitalized each year for . editor, The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, third edition, 2009. In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. The standard dose appears to be 100-200 mg/day. Pycnogenol treatment resulted in more normal-looking sperm. A review was conducted of French maritimepine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. DOI: Trebatick J, et al. No side effects were noted, unlike its synthetic counterpart. Its used as a natural supplement for several conditions, including dry skin and ADHD. Buy Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super Antioxidant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Cardiovascular Support), . Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. are clickable links to these studies. Certain studies used combination products, so its unknown what the contribution of Pycnogenol itself was. Placebo capsules were given to control subjects at the same times. Score one for diabetes control and fewer risk factors for the heart. 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. COPD. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking Pycnogenol. They could interact with medicines to suppress the immune system, chemotherapy drugs, and blood thinners. A trial of 53 students found that pycnogenol may improve cognitive function, memory, attention, mood, and mental performance after 8 weeks [20]. Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract acts as a potent blend of antioxidants, it is a natural anti-inflammatory, stimulates generation of collagen and hyaluronic acid and help with natural dilation of blood vessels by supporting production of nitric oxide. However, its always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. In patients with chronic venous insufficiency, the number of muscle cramps decreased from 6.3 to 2.6; in athletes from 8.6 to 2.4. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. 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. Dr. Drew explains the benefits of probiotics for the gut microbiome and talks about the rise of leaky gut, and Dr. Steve shares how emotional stress can have real physical effects on the heart. (2004). Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. For improving exercise capacity in athletes: 200 milligrams daily. The women taking Pycnogenol also experienced improvement in fatigue, sleep, concentration, memory, dizziness, and mood, including less irritability. Potential benefits of folic acid include a reduced risk of cancer, improved cognitive function, stronger bones, enhanced heart health, better pregnancy outcomes and reduced symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Pine bark extract is usually taken by mouth in capsule form. Prenatal nutrition can be confusing. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. In the following sections, well discuss the common forms and dosages of Pycnogenol that are commercially available. 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. For people who have symptoms that are more severe, traditional medicine is probably more effective. Pycnogenol may help with other conditions as well. So it . 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). 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. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 50 Tablets . Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. However, research on these two groups is limited [71, 15]. Here are the many health benefits believed to be possible with Pycnogenol: Now lets dive into the first condition it could help treat. 5) Inflammation and Allergies. For diseases of the retina, including those related to diabetes: 50 milligrams three times daily. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage. Here are 12 benefits of ginkgo biloba. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. (5). 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]. Pycnogenol suppresses inflammation and regulates the production of nitric oxide - a . Learn more about how to get even skin tone. Pain score in the Pycnogenol-treated group was reduced by 56%, as compared to 9.6% reduction in the placebo group. A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. 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. DOI: Scheff SW, et al. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. However, a study of 24 adults with ADHD found that pycnogenol did not improve ADHD symptoms better than placebo. ", 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. But the actual bioavailability of this complex mixture is still unknown. Pycnogenol may help reduce symptoms of melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation, possibly because it protects against UV rays. 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. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. $109.99. 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.. Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects. While pine bark extract is thought to be safe for children, they should only take it for a few weeks at a time. Our team comprises of trained MDs, PhDs, pharmacists, qualified scientists, and certified health and wellness specialists. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. 1 Anti-Aging Beverage, Daniel Fast: Benefits for Your Spiritual, Emotional and Physical Health, 15 Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut and Overall Health, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, L-Glutamine Benefits Leaky Gut & Metabolism, Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Weight Loss, Skin Health, Cholesterol & More, What Is a Marionberry? 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. Normalization of cardiovascular risk factors in peri-menopausal women with Pycnogenol [Abstract]. 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. Taking pine bark extract also increases the blood . Required fields are marked *. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may reduce leg swelling, spider veins, and cramps according to a study of 133 women with varicose veins who recently gave birth. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. Eliminate blood clots. Pine bark extract contains active ingredients that can also be found in peanut skin, grape seed, and witch hazel bark. This supplement may also increase muscle endurance and performance after a single pre-exercise dose according to a study of 9 cyclists [12, 13]. In addition to general healthy eating, some specific vitamins and minerals may help improve ADHD. 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. Pycnogenol health benefits. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. chronic anal fissure may take more than 6 weeks to heal. Ana received her MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade. 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]. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. Optimal doses of pycnogenol have not been set for any condition. A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please leave a comment or contact us at [emailprotected]. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. Its likely that muscle recovery time improved as well due to the high antioxidants pine bark extract contains. Pycnogenol (200 mg/day) may reduce muscle cramps and pain according to a study of 66 healthy people, athletes, and those with venous problems after 4 weeks. Pycnogenol lotions applied postirradiation reduced this immunosuppression to 22% (0.05% Pycnogenol) and 13% (0.1% Pycnogenol). Today's Dietitian: "Pycnogenol Supplement Offers Promise for Managing a Variety of Conditions." Based on another study of 6 trained and 7 untrained people, an antioxidant combination product containing Pycnogenol (Lactaway) may increase endurance. 5. from the bark of the French maritime pine tree. It also may enhance swimming, biking, and running scores in professional athletes preparing for a triathlon (at 150 mg/day). It also appeared to improve their attention span, visual motor skills, and concentration. Along with the rest of the crew, he developed symptoms of vitamin-C deficiency. Various studies, referenced at uofmhealth.org, have shown that a daily dosage of Pycnogenol . In some people lung inflammation is caused by leukotrienes chemicals that are released by the body after a person encounters allergens. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced pain in a study of 100 people with osteoarthritis after 3 months. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. 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. Pine bark distill has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and excitement to torso that has been imposed by exercise. Trees of this pine have been naturalized in Australia and New Zealand, where most Enzogenol is now made [7]. 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills. Its quality is specified in the United States Pharmacopeia [3]. 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. According to a large analysis, Pycnogenol may reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and pain short-term [45, 46]. (2013). These benefits appeared to persist for some time even after stopping supplementation [72]. Researchers suggest that Pycnogenol may reduce cough, night-awakenings, improve airway flow, and the need for additional asthma medication [16]. They are continually monitored by our internal peer-review process and if we see anyone making material science errors, we don't let them write for us again. Both supplements are antioxidants, which have been shown to help with blood flow and erectile function. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 . 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]. Pycnogenol has not been found to cause these issues however, it may take a little longer the feel the relief from pain than aspirin. Your email address will not be published. There is limited evidence that it could be used in treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. Additionally, the results showed that the extract has significant anti-pseudomonas activity, making it a potential natural remedy and possible preventive measure for infections. There are several causes for erectile dysfunction, such as neurological and psychological issues. In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs. Pycnogenol is considered possibly safe when taken orally or when applied topically as a cream or ointment. The staff there can often answer any questions you have and give you more information about specific brands. There have been a variety of health benefits linked to beta glucan, specifically with the beta-1 3d glucan form which has more biological activity than other types of polysaccharides. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. A clinical trial of 60 health professionals found that Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may improve cognitive function, attention, mental performance and specific professional skills after 12 weeks. Learn more. Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Small molecule antioxidants (phenolic acids, catechin, and taxifolin) are quickly absorbed and begin to act in the body within 30 min, The remaining more complex antioxidants (long chains of procyanidins) reach the gut, where your, The microbiome-produced active compounds appear in blood 6 h later and remain for at least 14 h, Pycnogenol is standardized to contain 70 5% procyanidins, which should be on the label, Pycnogenol standardization doesnt determine other major active compounds, which can vary. Pycnogenol is a patented formulation of Pine Bark Extract which is standardized to 65-75% Procyanidin compounds by weight. 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. Rakel, D. Integrative Medicine, 3rd edition, Saunders, 2012. 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. ", Panminerva Medica: "Supplementation with Pycnogenol improves signs and symptoms of menopausal transition.". The supplement significantly reduced hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, loss of libido, and vaginal dryness. Not bad. The study participants symptoms started to return a month after they stopped taking pine bark extract. For that reason, you should be careful taking pine bark if you have hypertension or diabetes. The combination of Panax ginseng and vitamin E also appears to have an effect. ", Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)., Panminerva Medica: "Pycnogenol improvements in asthma management. Blood clots form as a result of platelet aggregation, which is the platelets in the blood clumping together. If youre native to Oregon, you likely know all about marionberries. However, it can also be used topically. Potential for allergy when taken orally or used on the skin. . In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. Learn about this tree-based pill and how it might be able to help you. The positive improvements in symptoms were greater among those taking Pycnogenol. nausea. Most have similar amounts of active substances and are often sold under the brand name Pycnogenol [6]. (2012). Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body . Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. A clinically studied blend of Pycnogenol and a special bilberry extract (called Mirtogenol ) has been shown to provide benefits for vision and eye health. Rare cases of liver disease. There havent been enough studies yet to change practice protocols for treating children. American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". Study participants took pine bark extract as a supplement, and it was found to be most effective in women who started out with dry skin.