Herbal supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so they may not be up to the same safety standards as medications that have gone through clinical testing and drug trials. 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. For people who have symptoms that are more severe, traditional medicine is probably more effective. 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. According to research, Pycnogenol may have a multitude of health benefits, which are likely due to this extracts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. . 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. All included participants had subclinical cognitive impairment, which looks like typical brain fog [22]. A randomized clinical trial of 30 people found that Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may help heal vein ulcers from surgery and reduce swelling after 3 months of treatment [25]. - Please read carefully and implement principles included in the Health Recovery Plan. . Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. We take a look at what the science actually says. The usual recommended duration of treatment for topical application is 7 days for Pycnogenol cream and 6 weeks for Pycnogenol powder. (2006). A study of 32 people with heart failure lasting 12 weeks suggests that a combination of Pycnogenol with CoQ10 (PycnoQ10) may improve blood pressure, heart function, edema, and capacity for physical activity [40]. A study of 30 women found that Pycnogenol (75 mg/day) may reduce the skin area affected by melasma as well as lower symptoms of fatigue, constipation, body pain, and anxiety [62]. Traditionally, people might drink a brew made from pine bark -- rich in pycnogenol -- as a treatment. 5. Typical doses range from 50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day. Help your body fight the effects of normal aging. 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]. However, a study of 24 adults with ADHD found that pycnogenol did not improve ADHD symptoms better than placebo. Tongkat ali is an herbal remedy suggested to treat various ailments, including low testosterone and male infertility. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. 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]. Pycnogenol suppresses inflammation and regulates the production of nitric oxide - a . Read More: Health Benefits of Peanut Butter. Berberine is a compound extracted from several plants. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. 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. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. For that reason, you should be careful taking pine bark if you have hypertension or diabetes. For poor circulation: 45360 milligrams daily or 50100 milligrams three times daily. 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]. 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). New research has shown promising results for those dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes. For improving exercise capacity in athletes: 200 milligrams daily. returned. This article reviews tongkat ali, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. 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 []. Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. are clickable links to these studies. During the first month on L-arginine, only five percent of patients experienced normal erection. 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]. 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. Side Effects of Pycnogenol. 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 . Mental function. Children who took a pine bark extract supplement for one month had healthy antioxidant levels. Pycnogenol may reduce glucose levels, but it doesnt appear to increase insulin production or insulin sensitivity. But the actual bioavailability of this complex mixture is still unknown. Diabetes-associated small blood vessel changes is the leading cause of diabetic ulcers. DOI: Luzzi R, et al. 7 Health Benefits of Pine Bark Extract - Natures Fare In a smaller study of 58 people, pycnogenol reduced the inflammatory marker CRP [49, 50]. Placebo capsules were given to control subjects at the same times. 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. 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 . We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. In a small/preliminary study of kids with asthma, pycnogenol helped improve symptoms. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. Grape Seed Extract: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions However, its unclear how clinically effective Pycnogenol is for most of these conditions due to the low quality of evidence. Studies have found that nattokinase thins the blood and dissolves accumulated solids in it. They could interact with medicines to suppress the immune system, chemotherapy drugs, and blood thinners. But what makes this miracle ingredient so amazing? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For most people, pine bark extract doesnt cause any side effects. Start with a low dose so you can be sure it doesnt cause any side effects. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced LDL and increased HDL cholesterol in a trial of 25 healthy people after 6 weeks [55]. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. Pycnogenol may help with other conditions as well. It is found primarily in southwestern France and is used to help people with asthma, allergies, hay fever, and other health conditions.. Some studies have suggested it may modestly improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. However, it can also be used topically. Pycnogenol (125 mg/day) had the same effects in another study of 48 people with diabetes and high blood pressure. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. Its been noted that taking OPCs and vitamin C supplements at the same time could increase blood pressure if you have hypertension. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since its so high in powerful antioxidants. Extracts can also be made from other pine barks, such as Pinus radiata, Pinus densiflora, Pinus thunbergii, and Pinus massoniana. Pycnogenol is the leading ingredient in Isotonix OPC-3, Market America's best-. Who doesnt want amazing skin? According to the lab results of 10 volunteers, a higher Pycnogenol dose (300 mg) may impact these enzymes after just 30 minutes [52]. Pycnogenol-treated patients reported significant improvement with knee pain, as compared to the placebo group. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. Joe Cohen flipped the script on conventional and alternative medicine and it worked. Pycnogenol: French maritime pine bark extract In some people lung inflammation is caused by leukotrienes chemicals that are released by the body after a person encounters allergens. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. SelfDecode is a personalized health report service, Add to Cart. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". Your email address will not be published. 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]. (2012). Cigarette smoking increases platelet aggregation. Pycnogenol Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects - Ayur Times Studies were conducted in Turkey on subjects who underwent abdominal surgery to determine if the pine bark extract could help reduce the inflammation. Based on another study of 6 trained and 7 untrained people, an antioxidant combination product containing Pycnogenol (Lactaway) may increase endurance. Taking pine bark extract also increases the blood . People who use the supplement along with their traditional medication usually take smaller doses than those who only take the supplement. Some research suggests that procyanidins may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. COPD. Luckily, the Native Americans told them about a tea prepared from the bark of a certain tree, which miraculously led to complete recovery. Pycnogenol is similar to grape seed extract and cocoa polyphenols as those are the three most common . Pine Bark Extract Health Benefits, Nutrition and How to Use - Dr. Axe The specific tree from which the bark is extracted is called a maritime pine. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. For mild high blood pressure: 200 milligrams daily. Neuroprotective effect of Pycnogenol® following traumatic brain injury. Research suggests that taking pycnogenol improves mental function and memory in both young adults and the elderly. 32 Pycnogenol & Pine Bark Extract Benefits + Dosage 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. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, nattokinase has been used to help with pain from arthritis, including that of rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more about how to get even skin tone. 6 Amazing Benefits of Nattokinase | Organic Facts A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. 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. Side effects. Here are the many health benefits believed to be possible with Pycnogenol: Reduces "leaky" blood vessels by making the wall proteins (collagen, elastin) more resistant to damage. Pine bark extracts (Pycnogenol) | Uses, side-effects - Versus Arthritis Eye health. 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. Pine bark extract provides many benefits to the skin, including reducing the signs of aging. 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. Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills. 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]. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. But, as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. Note that each number in parentheses [1, 2, 3, etc.] The supplement significantly reduced hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, loss of libido, and vaginal dryness. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. Pycnogenol is a compound of natural chemicals. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. The New Pycnogenol Benefits | Dr. Steven Lamm - YouTube Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) improved menopausal symptoms and quality of life in a clinical trial of 35 women after 8 weeks [68]. Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. You can gradually increase how much you take once you get a better idea of how your body reacts to it. is a clickable link to peer-reviewed scientific studies. High-dose Pycnogenol (360 mg/day) for 4 weeks had the same LDL-lowering benefits in another study of 40 people [32, 56]. Pycnogenol: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose - RxList In the placebo group, the retinopathy worsened; whereas, in the Pycnogenol-treated group, there was no deterioration. Additionally, athletes have endured less cramping and muscle pain when using the extract. 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? Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. 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]. Learn more. It also reduced the size of scars. Pycnogenol seems to help with asthma and allergies. 3. Pycnogenol led to a reduction of muscle cramps from 4.8 a week to 1.3 at week four. Fundukian, L.J. Your email address will not be published. The study suggests it may increase desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and reduce pain [70]. (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. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. 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. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. Circulation and Jet Lag on Long Flights. (2017). However, it is also important to see beyond the pyncogenol marketing campaign and understand the possible dangers associated with this natural supplement. However, research on these two groups is limited [71, 15]. The remaining compounds are phenolic acids, which may also have antioxidant activity [1, 2]. 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]. 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. ( 1) 2. ( 4) Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. 11 Skin elasticity increased, and skin fatigue decreased significantly in this study as well, further lowering the wrinkling risk. (2017). Some people seek to manage ADHD symptoms through an ADHD diet. In this article, well summarize all the potential benefits and the scientific research surrounding pine bark extract and Pycnogenol. Taking pycnogenol daily for 2 months seems to slow or prevent further worsening of retinal disease caused by diabetes, atherosclerosis, or other diseases. 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. 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. In those treated with Pycnogenol, the edema score was increased by 17.9% versus an increase of 58.3% in the control group. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage. 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 . In another trial, 30 people with type 2 diabetes received a range of pycnogenol doses. Here are 12 benefits of ginkgo biloba. 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]. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center web site: "About Herbs: Pine Bark Extract. chronic anal fissure may take more than 6 weeks to heal. 8 Proven Benefits of Pine Bark Extract - Healthy Focus How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids (4+ Natural Remedies) - Dr. Axe 7. Today, I want to share with you my secrets to reduce sugar Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. 1) Encourages Healthy Blood Pressure. Pycnogenol reduced foot swelling in 79% of the patients, versus one percent in the placebo group. The Best Supplements for Healthy Digestion, How to Get the Protective Power of Vitamin K. What Is Pycnogenol, and What's It Used For? - Wonder Labs Arginine is a non-essential amino acid because most humans can make it in their bodies. For allergies: 50 milligrams twice daily. 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. Discover what the research says about elimination diets, foods to eat, and more. 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. Today's Dietitian: "Pycnogenol Supplement Offers Promise for Managing a Variety of Conditions." More research is needed to see how this supplement affects all of these conditions. However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. This study adds to a body of research showing the benefits of Pycnogenol . Its true. 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. 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. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. Pycnogenol effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women [Abstract]. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. She is a strong advocate of integrating scientific knowledge and holistic medicine. DOI: Dvorkov M, et al. PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone), also called methoxatin, is a vitamin-like compound that exists naturally in soil and a variety of foods, including spinach, kiwi, soybeans, and human breastmilk . Amazon.com: Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super 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]. Theres some evidence that Pycnogenol acts similar to a sustained-release formulation. Pycnogenol Why Should Men Like You Care? - ManTripping (2015). Some health benefits of Pycnogenol include:. Dr. Steven Lamm did a great job at explaining the new benefits of pycnogenol. Depending on the extraction process and the source Pinus species used (P. radiata or P. pinaster), the exact composition will vary. 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. 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. Diarrhea. Whole Foods Organic Allergy Medicine-drug A small 2012 study on postmenopausal women found that pine bark extract improved hydration and elasticity of skin. While much of this is positive, it will be a while before doctors routinely recommend this dietary supplement for these conditions. 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 plus sign next to the number [1+, 2+, etc] means that the information is found within the full scientific study rather than the abstract. Its used as a natural supplement for several conditions, including dry skin and ADHD. From diabetes and sexual function to sports performance and beautiful skin, pine bark extract may be worth exploring to provide results youre looking to achieve. Masquelier was easily able to create a pine bark extract from materials that were otherwise known as waste. Protection from inflammation, immunosuppression and carcinogenesis A 2006 study found that children who took a daily pine bark extract supplement for four weeks had significantly lower levels of hyperactivity. 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. 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. Another study of 47 women found that supplementing with 30 mg Pycnogenol twice daily for over 1 month may reduce menstrual pain [73]. It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. 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). Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? It can then lead to heart problems like stroke or heart attack. Pycnogenol is the US trademarked name for an antioxidant made from Mediterranean tree bark. Pycnogenol health benefits. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and thehigh-antioxidant foodswe should eat regularly. Take Helpful Supplements. 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. Top 9 Natural Allergy Relief Home Remedies - Dr. Axe 1 week ago from draxe.com Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet. Grapes: Health Benefits, Nutrition, Recipes and Risks - Dr. Axe Pycnogenol is a patented formulation of Pine Bark Extract which is standardized to 65-75% Procyanidin compounds by weight. 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. A number of clinical trials suggest that Pycnogenol may lower blood glucose if taken daily for at least 12 weeks. Upset stomach. Buy Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super Antioxidant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Cardiovascular Support), . Pycnogenol has not been found to cause these issues however, it may take a little longer the feel the relief from pain than aspirin. Pycnogenol lotions applied postirradiation reduced this immunosuppression to 22% (0.05% Pycnogenol) and 13% (0.1% Pycnogenol). The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 . Lets begin with asthma. Another 2006 study examined the effects of the antioxidant activity of pine bark extract on oxidative stress, which is thought to be one of the nongenetic factors contributing to ADHD.