Pycnogenol treatment reduced the need for painkillers by 58% versus one percent in the placebo-treated group. Although these may still be high quality, the active compounds are more likely to vary. Why Pycnogenol May Be the Only Supplement You'll Ever Need Another clinical trial of 76 people with allergic asthma also suggests that Pycnogenol may reduce IgE antibodies and asthma symptoms [18, 16]. Pycnogenol Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects - Ayur Times 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. ( 1) 2. Ask your doctor for advice. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. Typical doses range from 50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day. We take a look at what the science actually says. While it may seem intimidating at first, counting macros is a common Erythritol is now one of the most popular natural zero-calorie sweeteners available. Rakel, D. Integrative Medicine, 3rd edition, Saunders, 2012. Add to Cart. Its used as a natural supplement for several conditions, including dry skin and ADHD. The treatment was four 50 mg capsules of Pycnogenol. Neuroprotective effect of Pycnogenol® following traumatic brain injury. During the first month on L-arginine, only five percent of patients experienced normal erection. High-dose Pycnogenol (360 mg/day) for 4 weeks had the same LDL-lowering benefits in another study of 40 people [32, 56]. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Rare cases of liver disease. 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.. These antioxidants scavenge those damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural. After stopping Pycnogenol for one month, symptoms Extracts can also be made from other pine barks, such as Pinus radiata, Pinus densiflora, Pinus thunbergii, and Pinus massoniana. A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. In 1534, a French ship led by the famous explorer Jacques Cartier became stranded in ice near Quebec, Canada. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. 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. It seems to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the legs. The authors attributed the negative results to the short duration of treatment and the low dosages of drug or Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals. Importantly, all studies found that Pycnogenol has to be taken at least 5 weeks before the allergy season in order to see potential benefits, with the best results in those who take it 7-8 weeks ahead. New research shows . Some health benefits of Pycnogenol include:. Pycnogenol was featured on The Dr. Oz Show in January 2013, . are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. What Are the Dangers of Pycnogenol? | Live Healthy - Chron Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. 1. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. Help your body fight the effects of normal aging. 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]. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. . Pycnogenol can help control blood pressure, which helps improve overall heart health. Potential for allergy when taken orally or used on the skin. While pine bark extract is thought to be safe for children, they should only take it for a few weeks at a time. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. Are there any risks to taking it? 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. As noted, aspirin can cause severe gastrointestinal issues. In clinical research, doses up to about 300 mg/day have been used for up to one year without major safety concerns [33, 37]. (2017). Certain studies used combination products, so its unknown what the contribution of Pycnogenol itself was. 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]. 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. Studies have found that supplementing with pycnogenol effectively strengthens the blood vessels, stabilizing blood pressure. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. New research has shown promising results for those dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes. 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. In another trial, 30 people with type 2 diabetes received a range of pycnogenol doses. In 19 smokers, increased platelet aggregation was more significantly reduced by 200 mg than either 10 mg or 100 mg of Pycnogenol. Purity and potency of Pycnogenolare continuously monitored . In the control group, there were five thrombotic events; whereas the Pycnogenol-treated subjects only experienced nonthrombotic, local flare-ups. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 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]. It may cause side effects such as: Risks. 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. Buying Effective Supplements for ED - Verywell Health Benefits, Nutrition, Uses & How It Compares vs. Blackberries. All of our content is written by scientists and people with a strong science background. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 100 Tablets. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. In 22 German heavy smokers, platelet aggregation was prevented by 500 mg of aspirin or 100 mg Pycnogenol. Luckily, the Native Americans told them about a tea prepared from the bark of a certain tree, which miraculously led to complete recovery. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced pain in a study of 100 people with osteoarthritis after 3 months. We don't yet know what the best dose to use is, but studies have used two 50 mg Pycnogenol capsules per day. Staves Off Infections. The staff there can often answer any questions you have and give you more information about specific brands. Buy Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super Antioxidant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Cardiovascular Support), . 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. Benefits of Pycnogenol - Healthy Directions In addition to general healthy eating, some specific vitamins and minerals may help improve ADHD. 1. This supplement possibly activates the immune system. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. While these results are promising, there isnt enough research to fully understand the effect of antioxidant levels on ADHD symptoms. Pycnogenol lotions applied postirradiation reduced this immunosuppression to 22% (0.05% Pycnogenol) and 13% (0.1% Pycnogenol). In the Pycnogenol-treated group, blood sugar levels were significantly lowered as compared to those not on Pycnogenol. However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. This ensures that there is a healthy flow of blood to and from the heart. 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. Pine bark extract has been studied with regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. Vinpocetine is used to increase brain circulation, alertness, cognitive function, concentration, and memory, as well as to lower inflammation and oxidative stress.This article will explore vinpocetine's history, how it works, its potential benefits, and any possible safety issues . Studies on human subjects have reported few side effects - even . Add to Cart. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. But the actual bioavailability of this complex mixture is still unknown. In a study of 61 ADHD children, pycnogenol reduced hyperactivity, improved attention, and motorics after 1 month. This plant extract also shows promise in such far-flung conditions as traumatic brain injury 40,41, skin problems 37, pain syndromes 38,39, and even tinnitus . This nerve affects our balance and hearing by sending signals to the brain. Fundukian, L.J. Research suggests that taking pycnogenol improves mental function and memory in both young adults and the elderly. Pycnogenol completely normalized function. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Results failed to show any efficacy of Pycnogenol or methylphenidate when compared to placebo. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. 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. For most people, pine bark extract doesnt cause any side effects. Chestnut seed extract did not do as well. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) improved menopausal symptoms and quality of life in a clinical trial of 35 women after 8 weeks [68]. So begins my look at the natural supplement, pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract)benefits. It also seems to help with cell regeneration and replication. Taking pycnogenol daily for 2 months seems to slow or prevent further worsening of retinal disease caused by diabetes, atherosclerosis, or other diseases. It does this by improving the time it takes the body to reach a fatigued state through increased serum NAD+ levels. 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. 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. There havent been enough studies yet to change practice protocols for treating children. Let us discuss them in detail below. A number of clinical trials suggest that Pycnogenol may lower blood glucose if taken daily for at least 12 weeks. In the study, many of the participants on Pycnogenol reduced their dosage of high-blood-pressure medication (nifedipine) [37]. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. PQQ Supplements: Overview, Benefits, and Side Effects - Healthline If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. Pycnogenol is a substance taken from the pine bark of trees found in the southwest region of France. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. Pycnogenol is similar to grape seed extract and cocoa polyphenols as those are the three most common . 5. Ana spent years working with patients who suffer from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. In those treated with Pycnogenol, the edema score was increased by 17.9% versus an increase of 58.3% in the control group. Early research shows that taking it at least 5 weeks before the start of allergy season seems to lessen symptoms. Regardless of what youre using it for, its best to start with the lowest possible dose. There is a seemingly growing problem with skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the confusion of how to get vitamin D from the sun while avoiding these skin-damaging rays. Another study of 47 women found that supplementing with 30 mg Pycnogenol twice daily for over 1 month may reduce menstrual pain [73]. In a smaller study of 58 people, pycnogenol reduced the inflammatory marker CRP [49, 50]. Additionally, athletes have endured less cramping and muscle pain when using the extract. The positive improvements in symptoms were greater among those taking Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol seems to help with asthma and allergies. Gotu Kola: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, and More - WebMD But what makes this miracle ingredient so amazing? Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. Another highlight of grapes nutrition is the presence of polyphenols, which have been shown to decrease chronic inflammation. Pycnogenol: French maritime pine bark extract 10 Ways to Control Blood Sugar without Medication, Pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract): 12 Benefits According to Studies, Reduces leaky blood vessels by making the wall proteins (collagen, elastin) more resistant to damage, Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects, Inhibits platelet aggregation like low-dose aspirin, Reduces hardening in the arteries by increasing nitric oxide production in blood vessels, leading to greater dilatation, Counteracts the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation, Stimulates the immune system by boosting T and B cell functions, Protects brain cells from toxic chemicals. Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. They were treated with 200 mg of Pycnogenol daily or with placebo. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. Interactions. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. During week, five without, treatment, reduction of cramps was maintained in all three groups. (7). , Improves Symptoms Associated With Menopause, A number of women experience physical discomfort due to symptoms of menopause. 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. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, improved cognitive function in a clinical trial of 42 older men after 5 weeks of supplementation [23]. This article explains which supplements are believed to be safe during pregnancy and which ones you should avoid. Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. 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. 2. 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills - Sharda University Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. 6 Vinpocetine Benefits + How It Works & Side Effects Amazon.com: Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super What Is Pycnogenol, and What's It Used For? - Wonder Labs A trial of 53 students found that pycnogenol may improve cognitive function, memory, attention, mood, and mental performance after 8 weeks [20]. Whole Foods Organic Allergy Medicine-drug 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 . Work with your pediatrician to see if there are contraindications for each child. 5) Inflammation and Allergies. 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. 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. Frustrated by the lack of good information and tools, Joe decided to embark on a learning journey to decode his DNA and track his biomarkers in search of better health. Pine bark extract provides many benefits to the skin, including reducing the signs of aging. Pycnogenol: Skin, ADHD, Other Uses, Side Effects - Healthline Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and thehigh-antioxidant foodswe should eat regularly. 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. We avoid using tertiary references. Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. 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. Grapes: Health Benefits, Nutrition, Recipes and Risks - Dr. Axe It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps inhibit inflammatory factors to support. 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%. According to the lab results of 10 volunteers, a higher Pycnogenol dose (300 mg) may impact these enzymes after just 30 minutes [52]. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. but is for informational and educational purposes alone. 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. Pine Bark Extract Health Benefits, Nutrition and How to Use - Dr. Axe We are dedicated to providing the most scientifically valid, unbiased, and comprehensive information on any given topic. The usual recommended duration of treatment for topical application is 7 days for Pycnogenol cream and 6 weeks for Pycnogenol powder. Researchers suggest that Pycnogenol may reduce cough, night-awakenings, improve airway flow, and the need for additional asthma medication [16]. In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. 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. The New Pycnogenol Benefits | Dr. Steven Lamm - YouTube 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. Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . Seems like it must be pretty amazing, but lets look closer. In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs. (5). Pycnogenol effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women [Abstract]. Grape Seed Extract: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions A small 2012 study on postmenopausal women found that pine bark extract improved hydration and elasticity of skin. SelfDecode is a personalized health report service, In this article, well summarize all the potential benefits and the scientific research surrounding pine bark extract and Pycnogenol. Protection from inflammation, immunosuppression and carcinogenesis Helps Increase Athletic Performance. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications. 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. They were given Pycnogenolfor a period of 10 days. 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. All Pycnogenol-treated patients responded favorably in contrast to placebo treatment. Some of the top lutein-rich foods to include in your diet are dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, broccoli . ", Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)., Panminerva Medica: "Pycnogenol improvements in asthma management. According to research, Pycnogenol may have a multitude of health benefits, which are likely due to this extracts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced LDL and increased HDL cholesterol in a trial of 25 healthy people after 6 weeks [55]. This supplement may also increase muscle endurance and performance after a single pre-exercise dose according to a study of 9 cyclists [12, 13]. One study involved a four-week treatment period followed by one week of no treatment or observation period. Lutein Benefits, Uses, Foods, Side Effects and More - Dr. Axe It also reduced the size of scars. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. Who doesnt want amazing skin? It can also stabilize mast cells, which release histamine and trigger allergic reactions. 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. All rights reserved. But what are its health benefits? This can cause pain, especially in areas of the body that are used repeatedly, like your hands, fingers, and knees. Pycnogenol helps erectile dysfunction and diabetes through circulatory link Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. Vertigo. 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. One study of 211 found that Pycnogenol may help prevent edema and ankle swelling from long flights [27]. Pycnogenol is the US trademarked name for an antioxidant made from Mediterranean tree bark. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. Pycnogenol lowered leukotrienes as well. Clearer skin, healthier hair there are a lot of claims about the health benefits of biotin. However, a study of 24 adults with ADHD found that pycnogenol did not improve ADHD symptoms better than placebo. 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. 8 Proven Benefits of Pine Bark Extract - Healthy Focus These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. It also lessened the amount of asthma medication they needed. (13). Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. Pain score in the Pycnogenol-treated group was reduced by 56%, as compared to 9.6% reduction in the placebo group. 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]. A trial of 39 people with hay fever found that Pycnogenol may reduce nose and eye symptoms. 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. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. Cigarette smoking increases platelet aggregation. If youre wondering how to get an even skin tone, there are plenty of remedies that can help. For diseases of the retina, including those related to diabetes: 50 milligrams three times daily. What are the Benefits of Taking Beta 1 3D Glucan? - betterwayhealth Its true. A study of 147 people found that pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may improve running, push-ups, and sit-ups endurance in recreational athletes over an 8-week training program. Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since its an antioxidant dynamo. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. Eliminate blood clots. 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. (2015). Too much pressure signals that your heart might be working too hard. Various studies, referenced at uofmhealth.org, have shown that a daily dosage of Pycnogenol . Lowers Blood Pressure. DOI: Gulati OP. 3. 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. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking Pycnogenol. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. Discover what the research says about elimination diets, foods to eat, and more. It had the best results when combined with compression stockings, but worked just as well alone [28]. Symptoms of menopausal syndrome, also known as climacteric syndrome, include: hot flashes; chills; headache; and depression. For most people, pine bark extract doesn't cause any side effects.