Lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease. A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. Low-dose Pycnogenol (30 mg/day) may reduce pain in pregnant women, particularly hip, joint, lower back, groin, and calf cramps in the third trimester [71]. They include: We need more research to know for sure if pycnogenol helps treat these conditions. (7). Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. 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]. 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. (2004). Most have similar amounts of active substances and are often sold under the brand name Pycnogenol [6]. Pycnogenol acts as a sustained-release formulation. A clinically studied blend of Pycnogenol and a special bilberry extract (called Mirtogenol ) has been shown to provide benefits for vision and eye health. 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 . Another one of its exemplary effects is helping manage blood pressure levels. It decreased concussion symptoms in 42 student-athletes with a history of sports-related concussions after 6 weeks. Pycnogenol is the leading ingredient in Isotonix OPC-3, Market America's best-. Skin irritation. Finally, research suggests that Pycnogenol may improve triathlon time while possibly reducing cramps and post-running pain [10]. Note that each number in parentheses [1, 2, 3, etc.] However, it is also important to see beyond the pyncogenol marketing campaign and understand the possible dangers associated with this natural supplement. Pycnogenol may help reduce symptoms of melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation, possibly because it protects against UV rays. SelfDecode does not treat, diagnose or cure any conditions, Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. For improving exercise capacity in athletes: 200 milligrams daily. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. However, its unclear how clinically effective Pycnogenol is for most of these conditions due to the low quality of evidence. A 2017 review reported on the many benefits of using pine bark extract to reduce the effects of aging on skin. Still, more research is needed to better understand these findings and pine bark extracts role in reducing damage from head trauma. 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]. editor, The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, third edition, 2009. Enzogenol also may reduce mental fatigue and sleep problems [82]. 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. (13). They could interact with medicines to suppress the immune system, chemotherapy drugs, and blood thinners. There is limited evidence that it could be used in treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Early research shows that taking it at least 5 weeks before the start of allergy season seems to lessen symptoms. (3), Ototoxicity is ear poisoning and can occur when exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as cisplatin, that damage the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve. There are also several other natural ADHD remedies you can try. If youre native to Oregon, you likely know all about marionberries. All Pycnogenol-treated patients responded favorably in contrast to placebo treatment. However, in all the above studies insulin levels did not change. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of natures super antioxidants? Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. Speak with your doctor before supplementing. . Pycnogenol can help control blood pressure, which helps improve overall heart health. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol [Abstract]. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. After stopping Pycnogenol for one month, symptoms This article reviews tongkat ali, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Along with the rest of the crew, he developed symptoms of vitamin-C deficiency. Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. Pycnogenol may help with other conditions as well. According to a Japanese study, the combination of Pycnogenolt and L-arginine may produce the results youre looking for, making the bedroom a much happier place. 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 . Pycnogenol has been well-tolerated in most studies performed thus far. 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 systematic review of 14 studies found that Pycnogenol gum or mouthwashes may reduce dental plaque, but the quality of evidence is low [58, 59]. Eye health. It is chronic venous insufficiency, a common disease among people who are obese or elderly and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. The supplement significantly reduced hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, loss of libido, and vaginal dryness. 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. 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. A 2011 study by Dr. G. Belcaro concluded, " Pycnogenol administration was effective for better control of signs and symptoms of allergic asthma and reduced the need for medication". People who use the supplement along with their traditional medication usually take smaller doses than those who only take the supplement. Cigarette smoking increases platelet aggregation. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. 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? Researchers suggest it may boost sustained attention, memory, executive functions, mood, and reduce oxidative stress [19]. In another trial, 30 people with type 2 diabetes received a range of pycnogenol doses. Although these may still be high quality, the active compounds are more likely to vary. Pycnogenol lowered leukotrienes as well. DOI: Marini A, et al. In some people lung inflammation is caused by leukotrienes chemicals that are released by the body after a person encounters allergens. Not bad. A study was conducted by the Guang An Men Hospital of Chinese Medical Science Research Institutewith 77 diabetes type II patients to determine if theextract of the French Maritime pine bark provided anti-diabetic effects. All rights reserved. Natural Factors Pycnogenol 25mg 60 Veggie Caps. For people who have symptoms that are more severe, traditional medicine is probably more effective. DOI: Trebatick J, et al. Pine bark extract comes from the inner bark of the Pinus pinaster tree, most commonly found in Europe. 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. In one trial of 77 people with type 2 diabetes, pycnogenol (100 mg/day) for 12 weeks lowered both blood sugar levels and HbA1c, a marker of long-term blood glucose levels [31]. 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. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Heart Palpitations at Night: Common Causes and How to Treat, Essential Oils for Cough, Cold and Congestion, Sudden High Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention Tips, Sore Throat on One Side: 7 Causes and Treatments, Natural Remedies for the Burning Sensation in Your Stomach After Eating, Hibiscus Tea: Health Benefits, Nutrition, Side Effects, and Recipes, Vegetable Oil Substitutes: 5 Healthy Alternatives for Baking, Frying, and More, How to Treat Nausea After Eating Eggs or Chicken, Diarrhea after Eating: Causes and Natural Treatments, Top 11 Homeopathic Remedies for High Blood Pressure, Heavy Breathing: Common Causes and Treatments, Pineapple Juice for Cough: Effective Homemade Cough Remedies, Pain in the Left Temple of the Head: 10 Causes and Treatments. The Benefits of DIM. Placebo capsules were given to control subjects at the same times. As I mentioned, pine bark extract is superior when it comes to antioxidants. Pycnogenol led to a reduction of muscle cramps from 4.8 a week to 1.3 at week four. The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [Abstract]. Children who took a pine bark extract supplement for one month had healthy antioxidant levels. This bark extract has been around for about 450 years. In 19 smokers, increased platelet aggregation was more significantly reduced by 200 mg than either 10 mg or 100 mg of Pycnogenol. It also seems to help with cell regeneration and replication. All of our content is written by scientists and people with a strong science background. Some studies have suggested it may modestly improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. A 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. . However, some of these other pine bark extracts can have different active compounds, which may affect their biological activity. 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. In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. Vinpocetine is a well-known substance in the health-hacking community with a variety of claimed health benefits. Another group of men who took just l-arginine didnt improve [66]. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. It can also stabilize mast cells, which release histamine and trigger allergic reactions. Some people who have asthma have higher levels of leukotrienes in their blood. Purity and potency of Pycnogenolare continuously monitored . The results of a 2013 animal study suggest that pine bark extract may help to reduce damage to nerve cells following a traumatic brain injury. Talk to your own doctor about Pycnogenol if youre interested in using it for your own health. Taking pine bark extract supports healthy blood pressure. 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. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. Plus, it reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol. 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. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs. (2006). We believe that the most accurate information is found directly in the scientific source. Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . Trees of this pine have been naturalized in Australia and New Zealand, where most Enzogenol is now made [7]. In 24 people with early eye damage from diabetes, Pycnogenol improved vision, reduced eye swelling, and improved circulation in the eye after 2 months. painful urination. 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. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. 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. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. blood in the urine. Pycnogenol was gradually increased to 120 mg/day over this time period, while the l-arginine was maintained at 1.7 g/day throughout. These benefits appeared to persist for some time even after stopping supplementation [72]. In a study of 50 overweight people, a combination product (Pycnogenol, Madeglucyl, and starches called Glucaffect) reduced weight, BMI, blood glucose, and HbA1C after 8 weeks [30]. Pycnogenol has given indications that it might be able to benefit heart and artery health, to include reducing high blood pressure. 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. In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. Make sure to seek out the advice of your physician prior to using pine bark extract or the branded name, Pycnogenol. 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 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. A review was conducted of French maritimepine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. 1) Encourages Healthy Blood Pressure. 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. Results failed to show any efficacy of Pycnogenol or methylphenidate when compared to placebo. Can Pycnogenol help? 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.. 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]. Regardless, a natural option is available and far worth the wait. $47.99. Pycnogenol effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women [Abstract]. According to the National Institutes of Health, its safe for adults to take 50 to 450 milligrams of pine bark extract daily for up to one year. We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and thehigh-antioxidant foodswe should eat regularly. Pycnogenol has four main components that contribute to its benefits for men's health. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. According to a study of 170 women, low-dose pycnogenol (60 mg/day) may improve menopausal symptoms over 3 months, including night sweats, hot flashes, insomnia and sleep problems [69]. No side effects were noted, unlike its synthetic counterpart. Perimenopausal women who took pine bark extract for eight weeks noticed decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The specific tree from which the bark is extracted is called a maritime pine. In the following sections, well discuss the common forms and dosages of Pycnogenol that are commercially available. Today, I want to share with you my secrets to reduce sugar Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. (5). Pycnogenol is the registered trademark name for a French formula. It also may help those on blood pressure medications to reduce their dose [32]. whole-body health. He later extracted proanthocyanidins from the European coastal pine tree, which he named Pycnogenol.. Typical doses range from 50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day. New research shows . 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. A randomized placebo-controlled trial of 60 children with mild-to-moderate asthma found that those who took Pycnogenol may be able to reduce or discontinue their use of rescue inhalers more often than the placebo group [15]. Reduces Pain. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) supplementation may decrease symptoms of the common cold and speed up recovery, according to a clinical trial of 146 people. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. Side Effects of Pycnogenol. Here are the many health benefits believed to be possible with Pycnogenol: Now lets dive into the first condition it could help treat. If youre wondering how to get an even skin tone, there are plenty of remedies that can help. ", Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database web site: "Pycnogenol.". Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. 1. It may cause side effects such as: Risks. Sign Up for the Latest Health News and Tips, Home Food and Nutrition Pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract): 12 Benefits According to Studies. Video: Why You Need Zinc and Where to Find It. 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. 3. 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].