It also may help those on blood pressure medications to reduce their dose [32]. In a study of 100 healthy women mostly in their early 40s with mild sexual dysfunction, a combination product with Pycnogenol (Lady Prelox) improved sexual function over 8 weeks [74]. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. Perimenopausal women who took pine bark extract for eight weeks noticed decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In a clinical trial of 92 people with tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, Pycnogenol (100-150 mg/day) helped reduce symptoms and improve blood flow in the ears after 4 weeks [80]. It also seems to help with cell regeneration and replication. Learn more about how to get even skin tone. Studies have also safely used Pycnogenol in children and during pregnancy. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. Almost 400 years later, Dr. Jacques Masquelier from France came across Cartiers account and started to look for the active ingredients from the bark of the tree. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) supplementation may decrease symptoms of the common cold and speed up recovery, according to a clinical trial of 146 people. There's good evidence that pycnogenol helps with eye damage caused by diabetes. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Twenty-one patients were given Pycnogenol at 150 mg daily and 18 patients received no treatment for a period of eight weeks. (2017). The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [Abstract]. Learn more. In a study of 33 people with severe osteoarthritis, pycnogenol (200 mg/day) reduced inflammatory markers after 3 weeks. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. Some people seek to manage ADHD symptoms through an ADHD diet. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. She is a strong advocate of integrating scientific knowledge and holistic medicine. Let us discuss them in detail below. Here are 12 benefits of ginkgo biloba. Fundukian, L.J. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body. A trial of 39 people with hay fever found that Pycnogenol may reduce nose and eye symptoms. 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%. Pycnogenol is a substance taken from the pine bark of trees found in the southwest region of France. Our science team is put through the strictest vetting process in the health industry and we often reject applicants who have written articles for many of the largest health websites that are deemed trustworthy. 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. Regardless of what youre using it for, its best to start with the lowest possible dose. Vertigo. Pycnogenol is officially extracted from the French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), which grows in the southwest coast of France. This article reviews tongkat ali, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Symptoms include swelling in ankles and legs, discolored skin and, if the skin is broken, the development of leg ulcers. 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.. Its been noted that taking OPCs and vitamin C supplements at the same time could increase blood pressure if you have hypertension. Read More: Health Benefits of Peanut Butter. Traditionally, people might drink a brew made from pine bark -- rich in pycnogenol -- as a treatment. DOI: Gulati OP. In a study of 72 children undergoing cancer chemotherapy, Pycnogenol reduced painful mouth ulcers, both alone and in combination with vitamin E [79]. Joe Cohen flipped the script on conventional and alternative medicine and it worked. 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. Studies have found that nattokinase thins the blood and dissolves accumulated solids in it. Any medication that you take, including herbal supplements, comes with certain risks. Video: Why You Need Zinc and Where to Find It. However, it's always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. In another good study, 48 patients with diabetes and high blood pressure on ACE inhibitors were randomized to receive either Pycnogenol 125 mg daily or placebo for 12 weeks. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. It does this by improving the time it takes the body to reach a fatigued state through increased serum NAD+ levels. Pycnogenol is the leading ingredient in Isotonix OPC-3, Market America's best-. Typical doses range from 50 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day. 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. In one study, people with high blood pressure were examined to see how the supplement impacted their blood pressure. This nerve affects our balance and hearing by sending signals to the brain. Subjects in the study that took Pycnogenol ended up taking fewer painkillers [51]. (14, 15). Pine bark extract comes from the inner bark of the Pinus pinaster tree, most commonly found in Europe. In clinical research, doses up to about 300 mg/day have been used for up to one year without major safety concerns [33, 37]. In the following sections, well discuss the common forms and dosages of Pycnogenol that are commercially available. DOI: Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 50 to 450 milligrams of pine bark extract daily, Supplements During Pregnancy: Whats Safe and Whats Not, The ADHD Diet: What Works and What Does Not, Berberine A Powerful Supplement With Many Benefits, The Top Health Benefits of Prunes and Prune Juice, What to Know About Andrographis Supplements: Potential Benefits and Uses, Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. But the actual bioavailability of this complex mixture is still unknown. Arginine is a non-essential amino acid because most humans can make it in their bodies. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) given to 44 older healthy people with high oxidative stress improved cognitive function, attention, mental performance, and reduced oxidative stress after 12 months [21]. Pycnogenol has four main components that contribute to its benefits for men's health. 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 . One study involved a four-week treatment period followed by one week of no treatment or observation period. (13). This can cause pain, especially in areas of the body that are used repeatedly, like your hands, fingers, and knees. Blood clots form as a result of platelet aggregation, which is the platelets in the blood clumping together. More research is needed to see how this supplement affects all of these conditions. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. Prunes and prune juice have many health benefits. In a third study, 19 men with fertility problems were given 200 mg Pycnogenol daily for 90 days. As noted, aspirin can cause severe gastrointestinal issues. According to a large analysis, Pycnogenol may reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and pain short-term [45, 46]. This supplement may also increase muscle endurance and performance after a single pre-exercise dose according to a study of 9 cyclists [12, 13]. . 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. In 7 volunteers, Pycnogenol (300 mg) for 5 days may reduce the activity of a crucial inflammatory gene (NF-B) [53]. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. However, it can also be used topically. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, nattokinase has been used to help with pain from arthritis, including that of rheumatoid arthritis. 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. 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. 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]. 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. 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. Pycnogenol supplementation reduced skin redness from UV rays in a trial of 21 people over 8 weeks. Another one of its exemplary effects is helping manage blood pressure levels. According to researchers, it may help prevent the rise in free radicals typically seen after exercise, which could cause muscle fatigue and damage [9]. A clinically studied blend of Pycnogenol and a special bilberry extract (called Mirtogenol ) has been shown to provide benefits for vision and eye health. 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. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. Add to Cart. 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. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. Potential for allergy when taken orally or used on the skin. COPD. Pycnogenol was featured on The Dr. Oz Show in January 2013, . Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may reduce hay fever symptoms, according to a clinical trial of 39 people. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. 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. It is found primarily in southwestern France and is used to help people with asthma, allergies, hay fever, and other health conditions.. Infants and children may not be able to synthesize enough of it, but it is present in many protein-rich . (4). However, its unclear how clinically effective Pycnogenol is for most of these conditions due to the low quality of evidence. Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. Our team comprises of trained MDs, PhDs, pharmacists, qualified scientists, and certified health and wellness specialists. Researchers suggest that it may epigenetically turn off genes responsible for joint damage (ADAMTS) as well as reduce inflammation enzymes (MMP3) and cytokines (IL 1-beta) [47, 48]. Neuroprotective effect of Pycnogenol® following traumatic brain injury. 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 . Taking pine bark extract also increases the blood . It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps inhibit inflammatory factors to support. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. DIM and other plant indoles are found in . For example, Enzogenol is an extract from a pine that grows in California and Mexico (Pinus radiata) that may have cognitive-enhancing effects. 3. 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%). However, research on these two groups is limited [71, 15]. DOI: Marini A, et al. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. A 2006 study found that children who took a daily pine bark extract supplement for four weeks had significantly lower levels of hyperactivity. However, its always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. 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. Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. Regardless, a natural option is available and far worth the wait. In a small/preliminary study of kids with asthma, pycnogenol helped improve symptoms. There are several causes for erectile dysfunction, such as neurological and psychological issues. American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. 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. A study of 50 mildly infertile men found that a combination of L-arginine, L-citrulline, roburins, and Pycnogenol (Prelox R) may improve sperm quality, volume, and concentration [75]. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using pycnogenol supplements. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. 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. 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]. However, a study of 24 adults with ADHD found that pycnogenol did not improve ADHD symptoms better than placebo. Possess Anti-Inflammatory Action. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. New research shows . One study found that Pycnogenol may reduce the activity of the inflammatory enzymes COX1 and COX2, similar to how NSAID drugs work. 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. A clinical trial of 57 ADHD children found that daily Pycnogenol (1 mg/kg) for one month may reduce hyperactivity symptoms. chronic anal fissure may take more than 6 weeks to heal. 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. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with medications. (2006). 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]. The study concluded that Pycnogenol can prevent cramps, muscular pain at rest, and pain after/during exercise healthy people or those with diabetes or claudication. Along with the rest of the crew, he developed symptoms of vitamin-C deficiency. 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. returned. Pine bark distill has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and excitement to torso that has been imposed by exercise. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Improve cardiovascular health. 7. 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". Pycnogenol lotions applied postirradiation reduced this immunosuppression to 22% (0.05% Pycnogenol) and 13% (0.1% Pycnogenol). The dosage in most clinical studies varied between 50-360 mg/day. However, in all the above studies insulin levels did not change. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. 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. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) In contrast, almost 20% of the participants on inhalers alone had to increase their dosage. 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. 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. Too much pressure signals that your heart might be working too hard. 7. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. $31.99. The remaining compounds are phenolic acids, which may also have antioxidant activity [1, 2]. Information is shared for educational purposes only. During week, five without, treatment, reduction of cramps was maintained in all three groups. Moreover, Pycnogenol lowered the chemical, leukotrienes responsible for asthma attacks. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body . The usual recommended duration of treatment for topical application is 7 days for Pycnogenol cream and 6 weeks for Pycnogenol powder. 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. nausea. Used early on, it may prevent eye damage and blindness from diabetes [34]. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. It decreased concussion symptoms in 42 student-athletes with a history of sports-related concussions after 6 weeks. Ginkgo biloba has been widely cultivated across the globe for a variety of uses, most of which are medicinal. Ask your doctor for advice. 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. Erectile dysfunction has increased over the past decade or two, creating a pathway for various medications to land on the shelves of numerous medicine cabinets. Pycnogenol can help control blood pressure, which helps improve overall heart health. Add to Cart. Pycnogenol completely normalized function. For allergies: 50 milligrams twice daily. (2012). You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. He later extracted proanthocyanidins from the European coastal pine tree, which he named Pycnogenol.. ", American Heart Association: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings., Iranian Journal of Public Health: "Effect of Pycnogenol Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. (2004). SelfDecode does not treat, diagnose or cure any conditions, Abdominal pain was by far the most . 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage. The women taking Pycnogenol also experienced improvement in fatigue, sleep, concentration, memory, dizziness, and mood, including less irritability. 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]. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. According to a meta-analysis of 9 trials including 549 people, 150-200 mg/day for at least 12 weeks may reduce both diastolic and systolic blood pressure [36]. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. It can then lead to heart problems like stroke or heart attack. It also slightly decreased blood pressure and increased testosterone [67]. Although these may still be high quality, the active compounds are more likely to vary. 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. 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. Discover what the research says about elimination diets, foods to eat, and more. 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. 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. After stopping Pycnogenol for one month, symptoms Pycnogenol has not been found to cause these issues however, it may take a little longer the feel the relief from pain than aspirin. Another study found this supplement can even halt progression of vision . Another highlight of grapes nutrition is the presence of polyphenols, which have been shown to decrease chronic inflammation. Pycnogenol has several benefits to your health and beauty. Consider pine bark extract through a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. $109.99. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. It is chronic venous insufficiency, a common disease among people who are obese or elderly and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. 3. . With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Your email address will not be published. 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? For poor circulation: 45360 milligrams daily or 50100 milligrams three times daily. Pine bark extract is usually taken by mouth in capsule form. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Add to Cart. Pycnogenol-treated patients had significant improvement in symptoms as well as a reduction in leg swelling as compared to those not receiving treatment. - Please read carefully and implement principles included in the Health Recovery Plan. Its used as a natural supplement for several conditions, including dry skin and ADHD. While pine bark extract is thought to be safe for children, they should only take it for a few weeks at a time. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. Pycnogenol is a standardized supplement formula guaranteed to contain at least 65-75% proanthocyanidins, the active . Pine bark extract has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and inflammation to body that has been imposed by exercise. (9), Related:Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. People who use the supplement along with their traditional medication usually take smaller doses than those who only take the supplement. Pine bark extract can be found in liquid, tablet or capsule form containing 85 percent to 90 percent OPCs. Boost gastrointestinal health. 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. A review was conducted of French maritimepine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. Thirty patients were treated with 150 mg of Pycnogenol a day and the other 10 patients with placebo for a period of two months. They include: We need more research to know for sure if pycnogenol helps treat these conditions. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine what a safe and effective dose of lysine is for specific conditions. In another trial, 30 people with type 2 diabetes received a range of pycnogenol doses. 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 . New research has shown promising results for those dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes. Lutein uses and benefits include helping prevent eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts, skin disorders and skin cancer, several types of cancer, including colon or breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Learn about this tree-based pill and how it might be able to help you. 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 on human subjects have reported few side effects - even . A clinical trial of 60 health professionals found that Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) may improve cognitive function, attention, mental performance and specific professional skills after 12 weeks.