Pycnogenol, an extract of French maritime pine bark, helps the body fight normal aging by supporting vascular health and healthy circulation. Speak with your doctor before supplementing. Studies have found that supplementing with pycnogenol effectively strengthens the blood vessels, stabilizing blood pressure. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body. 6 Amazing Benefits of Nattokinase | Organic Facts Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. Boost gastrointestinal health. 1. Possess Anti-Inflammatory Action. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) given to 44 older healthy people with high oxidative stress improved cognitive function, attention, mental performance, and reduced oxidative stress after 12 months [21]. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 . (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. Learn more. DOI: Luzzi R, et al. It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps inhibit inflammatory factors to support. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. ", Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)., Panminerva Medica: "Pycnogenol improvements in asthma management. Some studies also suggest it can help guard against coronary artery disease and blood clots, per webmd.com. (2006). Pycnogenol reduced foot swelling in 79% of the patients, versus one percent in the placebo group. The crew fell extremely ill from scurvy, an extreme lack of vitamin C. Cartiers crew crossed paths with a Quebec Indian who encouraged them to drink a tea made from pine bark and needles. 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. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. Pycnogenol was featured on The Dr. Oz Show in January 2013, . According to a large analysis, Pycnogenol may reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and pain short-term [45, 46]. 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]. Take Helpful Supplements. 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. Finally, research suggests that Pycnogenol may improve triathlon time while possibly reducing cramps and post-running pain [10]. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. A trial of children with ADHD found that Pycnogenol may improve attention, possibly by increasing the total antioxidant status and reducing DNA damage. Pycnogenol-treated subjects experienced an improvement in all menopausal symptoms. A combination supplement (pycnogenol with collagen, coenzyme Q10, and other ingredients) reduced skin aging, elasticity, hydration, and tonicity in a study of 30 women [65]. In a good-quality study, 24 adults aged 24 to 53 years old with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were given Pycnogenol, placebo, or the standard drug for three weeks. Pycnogenol Health benefits, dosage, safety, side-effects, and more In long-haul flights, Pycnogenol could be an effective prevention for blood clots. Once youre sure that you dont have any negative reactions, you may be able to increase your dosage according to the label. Ac., CYT, 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba (Plus Side Effects & Dosage), Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Everything You Need to Know, reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, are within two weeks of a scheduled surgery, medications, herbs, and supplements that affect the blood or clotting. Studies were conducted in Turkey on subjects who underwent abdominal surgery to determine if the pine bark extract could help reduce the inflammation. Circulation and Jet Lag on Long Flights. Still, more research is needed to better understand these findings and pine bark extracts role in reducing damage from head trauma. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of natures super antioxidants? Neuroprotective effect of Pycnogenol® following traumatic brain injury. Pine bark extract has been studied with regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. If you knew you could resolve your erectile dysfunction and, therefore, naturally remedy impotence issues, wouldnt you? However, some of these other pine bark extracts can have different active compounds, which may affect their biological activity. Higher doses (200 mg/day) may improve blood vessel health and function after 8 weeks according to a study of 23 people with heart disease [38]. One study involved a four-week treatment period followed by one week of no treatment or observation period. 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. Ana spent years working with patients who suffer from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. A clinical trial of 57 ADHD children found that daily Pycnogenol (1 mg/kg) for one month may reduce hyperactivity symptoms. Lets begin with asthma. This ensures that there is a healthy flow of blood to and from the heart. The Best Supplements for Healthy Digestion, How to Get the Protective Power of Vitamin K. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease caused primarily by tobacco use. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Most have similar amounts of active substances and are often sold under the brand name Pycnogenol [6]. Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. 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. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. Skin irritation. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. Learn about all the potential benefits of Pycnogenol and find out which ones are most supported by science. She loves communicating science and empowering people to achieve their optimal health. A deficiency can cause issues like anemia, stunted growth, heart problems and neural tube defects. (2013). Pycnogenol (up to 200 mg/day) may improve asthma and reduce inflammatory asthma markers in the blood, leukotrienes, after 4 weeks, according to a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 26 asthma patients [14]. PQQ Supplements: Overview, Benefits, and Side Effects - Healthline 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills. Risks. 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]. 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. (2017). It also may enhance swimming, biking, and running scores in professional athletes preparing for a triathlon (at 150 mg/day). Gotu Kola: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, and More - WebMD In a study of 33 people with severe osteoarthritis, pycnogenol (200 mg/day) reduced inflammatory markers after 3 weeks. There are several causes for erectile dysfunction, such as neurological and psychological issues. Pine Bark Extract Health Benefits, Nutrition and How to Use - Dr. Axe Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . 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. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all) 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, bioflavonoids and phenolic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. During the first month on L-arginine, only five percent of patients experienced normal erection. 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. L-arginine is more effective when paired with L-citrulline or pycnogenol to combat erectile dysfunction and improve exercise performance. The New Pycnogenol Benefits | Dr. Steven Lamm - YouTube after four weeks of treatment, Pycnogenol-treated patients showed definite evidence of improved in small blood vessel functions and circulation as compared to those not treated. 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. New research shows . Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? In 7 volunteers, Pycnogenol (300 mg) for 5 days may reduce the activity of a crucial inflammatory gene (NF-B) [53]. More specifically, because it strengthens the capillaries in the retina, Mirtogenol can help prevent retinopathy. A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. In one study, 10 patients were treated with placebo and 30 patients were treated with Pycnogenol (100 mg twice or three times daily for two months). A Pycnogenol combination product (with l-arginine, alpha lipoic acid, B vitamins, and vitamin K2) may help protect the blood vessels and reduce high homocysteine levels, according to a trial of 25 people [39]. Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. 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. Side effects. Natural Factors Pycnogenol 100mg 30 Veggie Caps. Although the preliminary studies show many health benefits with the use of Pycnogenol, future larger and better studies are needed. Joe Cohen flipped the script on conventional and alternative medicine and it worked. Placebo capsules were given to control subjects at the same times. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. They include: We need more research to know for sure if pycnogenol helps treat these conditions. New Study: Daily Use of Pycnogenol Provides Benefits for Men Managing 8 Proven Benefits of L-arginine - Nutrition and Fitness Central 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. It also lessened the amount of asthma medication they needed. For allergies: 50 milligrams twice daily. 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 []. Clearer skin, healthier hair there are a lot of claims about the health benefits of biotin. Pine bark extracts (Pycnogenol) | Uses, side-effects - Versus Arthritis The same study showed that a single, 200-mg Pycnogenol dose remained effective over six days in preventing cigarette-induced enhanced platelet aggregation. For asthma in children: 1 milligram per pound of body weight given in two divided doses. 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. Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe for Weight Loss? A good-quality study was conducted in 77 diabetic patients who received their standard antidiabetic treatment along with 100 mg Pycnogenol a day or placebo for 12 weeks. 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]. 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 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. 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]. Pycnogenol lotions applied postirradiation reduced this immunosuppression to 22% (0.05% Pycnogenol) and 13% (0.1% Pycnogenol). Are there any risks to taking it? Results failed to show any efficacy of Pycnogenol or methylphenidate when compared to placebo. The Benefits of DIM. Pycnogenol helps erectile dysfunction and diabetes through circulatory link In the study, many of the participants on Pycnogenol reduced their dosage of high-blood-pressure medication (nifedipine) [37]. In addition to general healthy eating, some specific vitamins and minerals may help improve ADHD. 8 Proven Benefits of Pine Bark Extract - Healthy Focus In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. While much of this is positive, it will be a while before doctors routinely recommend this dietary supplement for these conditions. However, these studies appear to be methodologically sound and reliable, with no blatant errors in the study design and data collection. 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. 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]. 3. Pycnogenol: Properties These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and thehigh-antioxidant foodswe should eat regularly. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. 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. 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. It should never be used as a replacement for approved medical therapies. According to a study of 11 patients with lupus, pycnogenol may reduce symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative stress [54]. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. painful urination. The treatment was four 50 mg capsules of Pycnogenol. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Various studies, referenced at uofmhealth.org, have shown that a daily dosage of Pycnogenol . The outcome showed significant healing when compared to those subjects who were not given any drug or remedy, concluding that Pycnogenol may be an effective remedy for healing of surgery-related lesions. It also seems to help with cell regeneration and replication. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. Some research suggests that procyanidins may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Animal studies have found that gotu kola makes it harder . 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 study suggests it may increase desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and reduce pain [70]. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. In a third study, 19 men with fertility problems were given 200 mg Pycnogenol daily for 90 days. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. The combination of Panax ginseng and vitamin E also appears to have an effect. 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. 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?