A 2017 review reported on the many benefits of using pine bark extract to reduce the effects of aging on skin. 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]. In the study, it reduced cold symptoms and complications, the number of lost working days, and the use of over-the-counter medications compared to those who did not supplement with the extract [60]. This study adds to a body of research showing the benefits of Pycnogenol . Pycnogenol is considered possibly safe when taken orally or when applied topically as a cream or ointment. The . Vinpocetine is a well-known substance in the health-hacking community with a variety of claimed health benefits. 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. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. Eye health. The flesh of the grape contains approximately 1/20th-1/100th of the total antioxidant capacity of the seed or the skin. For people who have symptoms that are more severe, traditional medicine is probably more effective. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine what a safe and effective dose of lysine is for specific conditions. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) 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. Disease of the retina in the eye. It is found primarily in southwestern France and is used to help people with asthma, allergies, hay fever, and other health conditions.. Interactions. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, improved cognitive function in a clinical trial of 42 older men after 5 weeks of supplementation [23]. Procyanidins are chain-like structures consisted of catechins similar to some found in green tea (the green tea catechins that do not have 'gallate' in their names). The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [Abstract]. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, nattokinase has been used to help with pain from arthritis, including that of rheumatoid arthritis. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark name for a French formula. Add to Cart. In contrast, almost 20% of the participants on inhalers alone had to increase their dosage. Consequently, blood pressure is lowered. 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. After taking a break for one to two weeks, they can start taking it again for several weeks. In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. Another study of 47 women found that supplementing with 30 mg Pycnogenol twice daily for over 1 month may reduce menstrual pain [73]. Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? 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%. Along with the rest of the crew, he developed symptoms of vitamin-C deficiency. If you are thinking of taking Pycnogenol for a serious health condition like asthma or high blood pressure, check with your doctor., People who have autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis or lupus should talk to their doctor before trying Pycnogenol. A sitz bath, which involves sitting in warm water for 10 minutes, twice daily, is helpful to patients with anal itching, aching or burning and is known as one of the best ways to get rid of hemorrhoids fast. While these results are promising, there isnt enough research to fully understand the effect of antioxidant levels on ADHD symptoms. 2. 1. 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. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body. painful urination. Pycnogenol has not been found to cause these issues however, it may take a little longer the feel the relief from pain than aspirin. Side Effects of Pycnogenol. 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. The Benefits of DIM. 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]. (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. ", Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)., Panminerva Medica: "Pycnogenol improvements in asthma management. Pycnogenol and Pine Bark Extract Supplements. Last medically reviewed on January 24, 2018. Moreover, Pycnogenol lowered the chemical, leukotrienes responsible for asthma attacks. 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%. A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. According to researchers, it may help prevent the rise in free radicals typically seen after exercise, which could cause muscle fatigue and damage [9]. 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. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. Arginine is a non-essential amino acid because most humans can make it in their bodies. Additionally, athletes have endured less cramping and muscle pain when using the extract. 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. In another trial, 30 people with type 2 diabetes received a range of pycnogenol doses. Interesting activities, new dishes in restaurants, specialty ingredients, explanations of some netizens questions, etc.Hu Xuan is even helping Fatty s company s tourism manager, managing with Vice President Du Meixin, such as arranging guests reasonably.By the way.Dad, I want to tell you something.I plan to invest in the hotels and entertainment centers in the . Can you get pycnogenol naturally from foods? So it may not be safe for people with immune disorders, such as: It's not known if pycnogenol is safe for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. A trial of 53 students found that pycnogenol may improve cognitive function, memory, attention, mood, and mental performance after 8 weeks [20]. It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. 5) Vein Diseases and Swelling. Lowers Blood Pressure. Score one for diabetes control and fewer risk factors for the heart. Ana spent years working with patients who suffer from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. 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. Symptoms of menopausal syndrome, also known as climacteric syndrome, include: hot flashes; chills; headache; and depression. 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. Learn about all the potential benefits of Pycnogenol and find out which ones are most supported by science. Pycnogenol treatment led to significantly better improvement in the lung function and asthma symptoms. Chestnut seed extract did not do as well. blood in the urine. It also appeared to improve their attention span, visual motor skills, and concentration. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. Various brands of pycnogenol are available. 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 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. 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. Based on another study of 6 trained and 7 untrained people, an antioxidant combination product containing Pycnogenol (Lactaway) may increase endurance. Blood clots form as a result of platelet aggregation, which is the platelets in the blood clumping together. Pycnogenol-treated patients reported significant improvement with knee pain, as compared to the placebo group. 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. If youre native to Oregon, you likely know all about marionberries. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. 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. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. Another clinical trial of 76 people with allergic asthma also suggests that Pycnogenol may reduce IgE antibodies and asthma symptoms [18, 16]. We avoid using tertiary references. Pycnogenol supplementation reduced skin redness from UV rays in a trial of 21 people over 8 weeks. It also may increase the activity of genes that make collagen and hyaluronic acid in the body [64]. One study of 211 found that Pycnogenol may help prevent edema and ankle swelling from long flights [27]. This supplement possibly activates the immune system. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. Pycnogenol may help reduce symptoms of melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation, possibly because it protects against UV rays. There havent been enough studies yet to change practice protocols for treating children. A systematic review of 14 studies found that Pycnogenol gum or mouthwashes may reduce dental plaque, but the quality of evidence is low [58, 59]. Perimenopausal women who took pine bark extract for eight weeks noticed decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. It also reduced LDL cholesterol at a slightly lower dose (125 mg/day) in those with type 2 diabetes in a clinical trial of 48 people after 12 weeks. 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 women taking Pycnogenol also experienced improvement in fatigue, sleep, concentration, memory, dizziness, and mood, including less irritability. But a month after pycnogenol was stopped, the symptoms came back, suggesting that it may need to be used regularly to achieve the benefits [41]. 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. Ginkgo biloba has been widely cultivated across the globe for a variety of uses, most of which are medicinal. In 19 smokers, increased platelet aggregation was more significantly reduced by 200 mg than either 10 mg or 100 mg of Pycnogenol. She loves communicating science and empowering people to achieve their optimal health. It is chronic venous insufficiency, a common disease among people who are obese or elderly and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. 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]. In long-haul flights, Pycnogenol could be an effective prevention for blood clots. 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 . 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. Most have similar amounts of active substances and are often sold under the brand name Pycnogenol [6]. 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.. If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. 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. Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals. ", 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. In a smaller study of 58 people, pycnogenol reduced the inflammatory marker CRP [49, 50]. The list goes on a bit further, as the OPCs in thisextract may inhibit lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation, capillary permeability and fragility, and to affect enzyme systems, which basically means it may be a natural treatment for many serious health conditions, such as stroke and heart disease. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. (9), Related:Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. Required fields are marked *. Pycnogenol lowered leukotrienes as well. Another study found this supplement can even halt progression of vision . Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. Its likely that muscle recovery time improved as well due to the high antioxidants pine bark extract contains. The goal of this study was to evaluate if Pycnogenol could prevent deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) in eight-hour flights in 196 subjects at risk of these conditions. In a study of 76 people with allergic asthma, Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) added to conventional corticosteroid inhalers for 6 months helped 55% of them reduce inhaler use frequency and dosage. In this article, well summarize all the potential benefits and the scientific research surrounding pine bark extract and Pycnogenol. 4. Boost gastrointestinal health. In a study of 61 ADHD children, pycnogenol reduced hyperactivity, improved attention, and motorics after 1 month. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 . As a skin cream, its safe to use for about seven days. Help your body fight the effects of normal aging. Top 9 Natural Allergy Relief Home Remedies - Dr. Axe 1 week ago from draxe.com Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol [Abstract]. (2017). 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. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. Its been noted that taking OPCs and vitamin C supplements at the same time could increase blood pressure if you have hypertension. Typical doses range from 50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day. (13). During week, five without, treatment, reduction of cramps was maintained in all three groups. Researchers suggest that Pycnogenol may reduce cough, night-awakenings, improve airway flow, and the need for additional asthma medication [16]. A trial of children with ADHD found that Pycnogenol may improve attention, possibly by increasing the total antioxidant status and reducing DNA damage. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. He later extracted proanthocyanidins from the European coastal pine tree, which he named Pycnogenol.. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. According to some researchers, when you take Pycnogenol [8]: Research suggests that Pycnogenol may protect cells in the body against oxidative stress. For that reason, you should be careful taking pine bark if you have hypertension or diabetes. 3. . Pycnogenol was featured on The Dr. Oz Show in January 2013, . In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs. Abdominal pain was by far the most . Berberine is a compound extracted from several plants. Possible side effects . is a clickable link to peer-reviewed scientific studies. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease caused primarily by tobacco use. 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. Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects. The researchers concluded that pine bark extract may increase production of hyaluronic acid and collagen, which are both found in many popular antiaging products. The most effective blood sugar-lowering dose was 200 mg/day higher doses had no further benefit [33]. That said, there are some instances where this extract may possibly be effective. 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. DIM and other plant indoles are found in . (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. 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. Blazs G, et al. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. The study showed that many people who participated had a drop in their systolic blood pressure after taking Pycnogenol. Upset stomach. However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. 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. Helps Treat Erectile Dysfunction. These benefits appeared to persist for some time even after stopping supplementation [72]. It also may help those on blood pressure medications to reduce their dose [32]. 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]. Pycnogenol is the US trademarked name for an antioxidant made from Mediterranean tree bark. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. In one human study, some of the reported side effects of chanca piedra supplementation included: abdominal pain. Read More: Health Benefits of Peanut Butter. 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. 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. 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. Certain studies used combination products, so its unknown what the contribution of Pycnogenol itself was. 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. Sort By. Clearer skin, healthier hair there are a lot of claims about the health benefits of biotin. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. Tongkat ali is an herbal remedy suggested to treat various ailments, including low testosterone and male infertility. All included participants had subclinical cognitive impairment, which looks like typical brain fog [22]. Millions are hospitalized each year for . Depending on the extraction process and the source Pinus species used (P. radiata or P. pinaster), the exact composition will vary. A high number signals high blood pressure. 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. Although the preliminary studies show many health benefits with the use of Pycnogenol, future larger and better studies are needed. Pycnogenol is considered safe when taken orally in a dose of 50 to 450 mg per day for one year. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. With time, the participants were able to handle more UV radiation without experiencing skin damage [63]. New studies show Pycnogenol can prevent or reverse the oxidative damage that produces blood vessel disease 4, metabolic syndrome 20, diabetes 20,24, and neurodegenerative disorders 23,24. There is limited evidence that it could be used in treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Another group of men who took just l-arginine didnt improve [66]. Learn about this tree-based pill and how it might be able to help you. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of natures super antioxidants? Pine bark distill has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and excitement to torso that has been imposed by exercise. These antioxidants scavenge those damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. According to research, Pycnogenol may have a multitude of health benefits, which are likely due to this extracts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage.