DOI: Dvorkov M, et al. During the first month on L-arginine, only five percent of patients experienced normal erection. Pycnogenol led to a reduction of muscle cramps from 4.8 a week to 1.3 at week four. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. The crew fell extremely ill from scurvy, an extreme lack of vitamin C. Cartiers crew crossed paths with a Quebec Indian who encouraged them to drink a tea made from pine bark and needles. Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural. The Many Benefits of Grape Seed Extract - Mercola.com However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. It may cause side effects such as: Risks. 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. Ginkgo biloba has been widely cultivated across the globe for a variety of uses, most of which are medicinal. 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]. Both supplements are antioxidants, which have been shown to help with blood flow and erectile function. Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. Top 9 Natural Allergy Relief Home Remedies - Dr. Axe 1 week ago from draxe.com Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet. Pycnogenol is officially extracted from the French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), which grows in the southwest coast of France. The study showed that many people who participated had a drop in their systolic blood pressure after taking Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol supplementation reduced skin redness from UV rays in a trial of 21 people over 8 weeks. A clinically studied blend of Pycnogenol and a special bilberry extract (called Mirtogenol ) has been shown to provide benefits for vision and eye health. Learn about all the potential benefits of Pycnogenol and find out which ones are most supported by science. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. Normalization of cardiovascular risk factors in peri-menopausal women with Pycnogenol [Abstract]. Mental function. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) $109.99. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Folic Acid Benefits, Deficiency, Foods, Side Effects, More - Dr. Axe In long-haul flights, Pycnogenol could be an effective prevention for blood clots. Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) supplementation may decrease symptoms of the common cold and speed up recovery, according to a clinical trial of 146 people. . 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]. Ana spent years working with patients who suffer from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in endurance performance of trained athletes. Learn more. In contrast, bleeding still occurred in the control group [61]. Pycnogenol: Uses and Risks - WebMD . Pycnogenol can help control blood pressure, which helps improve overall heart health. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. 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. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. Benefits of Pycnogenol - Healthy Directions Pycnogenol has several benefits to your health and beauty. 3. For most people, pine bark extract doesn't cause any side effects. 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. In a smaller study of 58 people, pycnogenol reduced the inflammatory marker CRP [49, 50]. 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. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. Pycnogenol treatment reduced the need for painkillers by 58% versus one percent in the placebo-treated group. 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. Seems like it must be pretty amazing, but lets look closer. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. The same study showed that a single, 200-mg Pycnogenol dose remained effective over six days in preventing cigarette-induced enhanced platelet aggregation. There's good evidence that pycnogenol helps with eye damage caused by diabetes. 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. Lowers Blood Pressure. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. Ana received her MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade. Buying Effective Supplements for ED - Verywell Health Start with a low dose so you can be sure it doesnt cause any side effects. While pine bark extract is thought to be safe for children, they should only take it for a few weeks at a time. They also had normalized fasting glucose levels and blood pressure, which can also reduce a persons risk of heart problems. In the following sections, well discuss the common forms and dosages of Pycnogenol that are commercially available. A small 2012 study on postmenopausal women found that pine bark extract improved hydration and elasticity of skin. According to research, Pycnogenol may have a multitude of health benefits, which are likely due to this extracts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 100 Tablets. Chanca Piedra: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, and More - Healthline Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease caused primarily by tobacco use. The flesh of the grape contains approximately 1/20th-1/100th of the total antioxidant capacity of the seed or the skin. Traditionally, people might drink a brew made from pine bark -- rich in pycnogenol -- as a treatment. A trial of 39 people with hay fever found that Pycnogenol may reduce nose and eye symptoms. This can cause pain, especially in areas of the body that are used repeatedly, like your hands, fingers, and knees. This bark extract has been around for about 450 years. After stopping Pycnogenol for one month, symptoms Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. 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]. (2006). These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. Speak with your doctor before supplementing. They include: We need more research to know for sure if pycnogenol helps treat these conditions. Studies have also safely used Pycnogenol in children and during pregnancy. Pycnogenol; Pycnogenol. These benefits appeared to persist for some time even after stopping supplementation [72]. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of Pycnogenol for any of the uses listed below. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. For asthma in children: 1 milligram per pound of body weight given in two divided doses. Pycnogenol has been well-tolerated in most studies performed thus far. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. A 2017 review reported on the many benefits of using pine bark extract to reduce the effects of aging on skin. Natural Factors Pycnogenol 100mg 30 Veggie Caps. 5) Inflammation and Allergies. 6 Vinpocetine Benefits + How It Works & Side Effects Forty-seven Japanese men with mild erectile dysfunction were given supplementation L-arginine and French maritime pine bark extract over a period of time. Take Helpful Supplements. 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. 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.. All rights reserved. New research has shown promising results for those dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may reduce hay fever symptoms, according to a clinical trial of 39 people. Grape Seed Extract: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions The study suggests it may increase desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and reduce pain [70]. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . Theres some evidence that Pycnogenol acts similar to a sustained-release formulation. Benefits, Nutrition, Uses & How It Compares vs. Blackberries. The dosage in most clinical studies varied between 50-360 mg/day. 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]. Pycnogenol is a patented formulation of Pine Bark Extract which is standardized to 65-75% Procyanidin compounds by weight. 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. If youre native to Oregon, you likely know all about marionberries. For most people, pine bark extract doesnt cause any side effects. Its true. . 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage. Pine bark extract is composed of 80% to 85% proanthocyanidins, the monomers catechin and taxifolin (5%), and phenolic acids, including derivatives of benzoic and cinnamic acids (2% to 4%). She is a strong advocate of integrating scientific knowledge and holistic medicine. (14, 15). There were 88 in the control group and 81 in the Pycnogenol group. Various studies, referenced at uofmhealth.org, have shown that a daily dosage of Pycnogenol . The active ingredients in pycnogenol can also be extracted from other sources, including peanut skin, grape seed, and witch hazel bark. Pine bark extract has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and inflammation to body that has been imposed by exercise. Twenty-one patients were given Pycnogenol at 150 mg daily and 18 patients received no treatment for a period of eight weeks. Maritime Pine Uses, Benefits & Dosage - Drugs.com Herbal Database (5). is a clickable link to peer-reviewed scientific studies. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. Grape seed extract may have heart-health benefits. In another study, Pycnogenol increased glutathione levels and total antioxidants after a month in children with ADHD [42, 43]. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. This supplement may also increase muscle endurance and performance after a single pre-exercise dose according to a study of 9 cyclists [12, 13]. $31.99. The specific tree from which the bark is extracted is called a maritime pine. 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 popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. (8). It also seems to help with cell regeneration and replication. Lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The Best Supplements for Healthy Digestion, How to Get the Protective Power of Vitamin K. 32 Pycnogenol & Pine Bark Extract Benefits + Dosage Prenatal nutrition can be confusing. Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all) is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and phenolic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. No side effects were noted, unlike its synthetic counterpart. Health Benefits of L-Arginine - WebMD A 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. More research is needed to see how this supplement affects all of 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. Another study of 47 women found that supplementing with 30 mg Pycnogenol twice daily for over 1 month may reduce menstrual pain [73]. Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. Some studies have suggested it may modestly improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. Most anal fissures heal with home treatment after a few days or weeks. It can then lead to heart problems like stroke or heart attack. Rare cases of liver disease. 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. Staves Off Infections. Pain score in the Pycnogenol-treated group was reduced by 56%, as compared to 9.6% reduction in the placebo group. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. 6 Amazing Benefits of Nattokinase | Organic Facts Required fields are marked *. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. A trial of children with ADHD found that Pycnogenol may improve attention, possibly by increasing the total antioxidant status and reducing DNA damage. Pine bark extract appears to reduce the creation of free radicals, which are molecules linked to several skin conditions. - Please read carefully and implement principles included in the Health Recovery Plan. DOI: Scheff SW, et al. He learned about the seemingly omnipotent antioxidant within it and how those antioxidants increase the absorption of vitamin C. Continued research showed that the pine bark contained flavonols and bioflavonoids, which hold tissue-repairing properties. Boost gastrointestinal health. What Are These Tiny Red Spots on My Skin (Petechiae)? 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 . You can find out your systolic blood pressure by looking at the top number of a blood pressure test. Depending on the extraction process and the source Pinus species used (P. radiata or P. pinaster), the exact composition will vary. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in survival performance of train athletes. After taking a break for one to two weeks, they can start taking it again for several weeks. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. Vertigo. But, as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. 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. Video: Why You Need Zinc and Where to Find It. 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%. Helps Increase Athletic Performance. Pycnogenol is the leading ingredient in Isotonix OPC-3, Market America's best-. Vinpocetine is a well-known substance in the health-hacking community with a variety of claimed health benefits. Pycnogenol is considered safe when taken orally in a dose of 50 to 450 mg per day for one year. PQQ Supplements: Overview, Benefits, and Side Effects - Healthline 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. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. This supplement possibly activates the immune system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. 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. Pine bark extract contains active ingredients that can also be found in peanut skin, grape seed, and witch hazel bark. 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). 1. Lets begin with asthma. Some small studies suggest it may also protect against coronary artery disease and blood clots. 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. The usual recommended duration of treatment for topical application is 7 days for Pycnogenol cream and 6 weeks for Pycnogenol powder. 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 . Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol [Abstract]. This ensures that there is a healthy flow of blood to and from the heart. Pycnogenol is a substance taken from the pine bark of trees found in the southwest region of France. In a study of 77 people with symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) improved symptoms and reduced the frequency of attacks [77]. DOI: Luzzi R, et al. In a clinical trial of 116 women, Pycnogenol (60 mg/day) reduced menstrual pain and the need for additional painkillers, taken over 2 cycles. With time, the participants were able to handle more UV radiation without experiencing skin damage [63]. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. In a study of 20 postmenopausal women, 12 weeks of pycnogenol supplementation improved hydration and elasticity of the skin. 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]. All rights reserved. A clinical trial of 57 ADHD children found that daily Pycnogenol (1 mg/kg) for one month may reduce hyperactivity symptoms. Millions are hospitalized each year for . Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark name for a French formula. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. Clearer skin, healthier hair there are a lot of claims about the health benefits of biotin. Pycnogenol-treated subjects experienced an improvement in all menopausal symptoms. 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. Add to Cart. According to a study of 11 patients with lupus, pycnogenol may reduce symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative stress [54]. It also may enhance swimming, biking, and running scores in professional athletes preparing for a triathlon (at 150 mg/day). Not bad. Pycnogenol, French Maritime Pine Bark Extract, 100 mg, 60 caps - Life Based on another study of 6 trained and 7 untrained people, an antioxidant combination product containing Pycnogenol (Lactaway) may increase endurance. Certain studies used combination products, so its unknown what the contribution of Pycnogenol itself was. 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. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. Pycnogenol may help with other conditions as well.