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%. More research is needed to see how this supplement affects all of these conditions. In a clinical trial of 116 women, Pycnogenol (60 mg/day) reduced menstrual pain and the need for additional painkillers, taken over 2 cycles. Set Ascending Direction. Also, its important to note that some of these studies were funded by Horphag Research, the original developers and exclusive marketers of Pycnogenol. It is chronic venous insufficiency, a common disease among people who are obese or elderly and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements, but that does not guarantee that they are safe or effective. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. 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]. 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. Upset stomach. Pine bark extract has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and inflammation to body that has been imposed by exercise. It also may enhance swimming, biking, and running scores in professional athletes preparing for a triathlon (at 150 mg/day). Helps Treat Erectile Dysfunction. Disease of the retina in the eye. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. 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]. Researchers suggest that Pycnogenol may reduce cough, night-awakenings, improve airway flow, and the need for additional asthma medication [16]. DOI: Gulati OP. This ensures that there is a healthy flow of blood to and from the heart. 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. It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps inhibit inflammatory factors to support. Enzogenol, a slightly different pine bark extract, may help improve brain function after mild concussions. Headaches. Chestnut seed extract did not do as well. Are there any risks to taking it? The review found evidence that pine bark extract may: Similar to its neuroprotective benefits, the metabolic benefits of pine bark extract seem to be related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find out your systolic blood pressure by looking at the top number of a blood pressure test. 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. You can refer to the National Institutes of Healths dosage guidelines for specific conditions. Pycnogenol may help reduce symptoms of melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation, possibly because it protects against UV rays. (2006). Pycnogenol significantly improved the heavy feeling as well as the swelling. ", Mayo Clinic: High blood pressure (hypertension)., Panminerva Medica: "Pycnogenol improvements in asthma management. Let us discuss them in detail below. Discover what the research says about elimination diets, foods to eat, and more. The study showed that many people who participated had a drop in their systolic blood pressure after taking Pycnogenol. Buy Healthy Origins Pycnogenol 100 mg (Nature's Super Antioxidant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Cardiovascular Support), . Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Diarrhea. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. They also had normalized fasting glucose levels and blood pressure, which can also reduce a persons risk of heart problems. 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]. They include: We need more research to know for sure if pycnogenol helps treat these conditions. 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. 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. In 1535, a French explorer by the name of Jacques Cartier found himself ice-bound on the St. Lawrence River. Pycnogenol is a patented formulation of Pine Bark Extract which is standardized to 65-75% Procyanidin compounds by weight. In the study, many of the participants on Pycnogenol reduced their dosage of high-blood-pressure medication (nifedipine) [37]. painful urination. The study provided clear evidence that Pycnogenol does, indeed, offer photoprotection however, it came out even better than expected, showing that it may be used to reduce hyperpigmentation of human skin while improving the skin barrier function and extracellular matrix homeostasis. (6). We believe that the most accurate information is found directly in the scientific source. According to a study of 11 patients with lupus, pycnogenol may reduce symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative stress [54]. (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. Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. 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%. Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since its so high in powerful antioxidants. A review was conducted of French maritimepine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. However, in all the above studies insulin levels did not change. While the aspirin reduced the risk for cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer, among other cancers, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding outweighed those benefits, creating more risks to the body. Known for its antioxidant properties, Pycnogenol offers a wide range of potential health benefits. The combination of L-arginine and Pycnogenol may help in erectile dysfunction by boosting nitric oxide, which potentially could improve blood flow in men [66]. Andrographis is a medicinal herb used to treat many health conditions, such as the common cold, osteoarthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Pycnogenol supplementation reduced skin redness from UV rays in a trial of 21 people over 8 weeks. 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 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. Taking pycnogenol daily for 2 months seems to slow or prevent further worsening of retinal disease caused by diabetes, atherosclerosis, or other diseases. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. As I mentioned, pine bark extract is superior when it comes to antioxidants. 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. The results showed that the combination of local and systemic applications of Pycnogenol were the best in terms of ulcer healing even though local application of Pycnogenol also speeded up ulcer healing. A 2017 review reported on the many benefits of using pine bark extract to reduce the effects of aging on skin. New research shows . 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. Consequently, blood pressure is lowered. . American Cancer Society: "Pine Bark Extract.". but is for informational and educational purposes alone. 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. This supplement possibly activates the immune system. Studies have found that supplementing with pycnogenol effectively strengthens the blood vessels, stabilizing blood pressure. Pine bark extract is usually taken by mouth in capsule form. Pycnogenol led to a reduction of muscle cramps from 4.8 a week to 1.3 at week four. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. We are dedicated to providing the most scientifically valid, unbiased, and comprehensive information on any given topic. Erythritol: Is This Healthy Sweetener the Real Deal? It also may help those on blood pressure medications to reduce their dose [32]. A 2004 animal study also found that applying a gel containing pine bark extract sped up the wound-healing process. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. (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. Pycnogenol significantly reduced the swelling as well as the feeling of heaviness. 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. Diabetes-associated small blood vessel changes is the leading cause of diabetic ulcers. Finally, research suggests that Pycnogenol may improve triathlon time while possibly reducing cramps and post-running pain [10]. Helps Increase Athletic Performance. Some studies also suggest it can help guard against coronary artery disease and blood clots, per webmd.com. Pycnogenol treatment lowered the ACE-inhibitor dose required to control blood pressure, and lowered fasting glucose levels as well. A trial of children with ADHD found that Pycnogenol may improve attention, possibly by increasing the total antioxidant status and reducing DNA damage. Moreover, Pycnogenol treatment reduced the use of painkillers. Although the preliminary studies show many health benefits with the use of Pycnogenol, future larger and better studies are needed. chronic anal fissure may take more than 6 weeks to heal. Pycnogenol is similar to grape seed extract and cocoa polyphenols as those are the three most common . This article reviews tongkat ali, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Theres evidence that Pycnogenol may be a promising nootropic for various groups of people, including middle-aged professionals, students, and people with mild cognitive decline like brain fog. 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. (9), Related:Top 7 Benefits of Green Tea: The No. 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? Enzogenol also may reduce mental fatigue and sleep problems [82]. Vinpocetine is a well-known substance in the health-hacking community with a variety of claimed health benefits. ", Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database web site: "Pycnogenol.". Early research shows that taking it at least 5 weeks before the start of allergy season seems to lessen symptoms. 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. We take a look at what the science actually says. ", 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. Pycnogenol has four main components that contribute to its benefits for men's health. For poor circulation: 45360 milligrams daily or 50100 milligrams three times daily. 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 . Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. Seems like it must be pretty amazing, but lets look closer. Here are 12 benefits of ginkgo biloba. These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 100 Tablets. According to researchers, it may help prevent the rise in free radicals typically seen after exercise, which could cause muscle fatigue and damage [9]. Vertigo. But, as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. 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. Pycnogenol seems well-tolerated for use in adults for up to 6 months. Commonly called arthritis, osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage on your joints begins to wear down. Cigarette smoking increases platelet aggregation. There are also several other natural ADHD remedies you can try. We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and thehigh-antioxidant foodswe should eat regularly. Diabetic retinopathy is a type of eye injury caused by complications from diabetes. Learn more. 1) Encourages Healthy Blood Pressure. The . Lets begin with asthma. 5 6 However, evidence is conflictingother studies have shown no effect on the same measures. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking Pycnogenol. Both supplements are antioxidants, which have been shown to help with blood flow and erectile function. Another study found this supplement can even halt progression of vision . COPD. Ana received her MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade. Four hundred years later, a French researcher named Jacques Masquelier did some studies to understand why this natural remedy was so effective. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of Pycnogenol for any of the uses listed below. Take Helpful Supplements. 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. (2012). Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. Most anal fissures heal with home treatment after a few days or weeks. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) reduced LDL and increased HDL cholesterol in a trial of 25 healthy people after 6 weeks [55]. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) supplementation may decrease symptoms of the common cold and speed up recovery, according to a clinical trial of 146 people. Regardless of what youre using it for, its best to start with the lowest possible dose. This can cause pain, especially in areas of the body that are used repeatedly, like your hands, fingers, and knees. Ac., CYT, 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba (Plus Side Effects & Dosage), Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Everything You Need to Know, reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, are within two weeks of a scheduled surgery, medications, herbs, and supplements that affect the blood or clotting. Joe Cohen flipped the script on conventional and alternative medicine and it worked. All rights reserved. (7). Some pycnogenol supplements are mixed with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. Pine bark extracts other than pycnogenol are also sold. Taking pine bark extract supports healthy blood pressure. The specific tree from which the bark is extracted is called a maritime pine. If possible, try to get pine bark extract from a local supplier, such as a health food store. One way to add some extra flavor and nutrients to your day is by adding prune juice to your diet. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. Another group of men who took just l-arginine didnt improve [66]. 1 Anti-Aging Beverage, An surprisingstudy found that pine bark extract was far better than aspirin at inhibiting smoking-induced clotting, using lower amounts without the bleeding often found when using aspirin. Blazs G, et al. However, this was a relatively small study, so larger ones are needed to fully understand pine bark extracts role in these findings. There havent been enough studies yet to change practice protocols for treating children. 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 []. A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. The Best Supplements for Healthy Digestion, How to Get the Protective Power of Vitamin K. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) improved menopausal symptoms and quality of life in a clinical trial of 35 women after 8 weeks [68]. This bark extract has been around for about 450 years. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. ", Journal of Medicinal Food: "Review on Sustained Relief of Osteoarthritis Symptoms with a Proprietary Extract from Pine Bark, Pycnogenol. Along with the rest of the crew, he developed symptoms of vitamin-C deficiency. Optimal doses of pycnogenol have not been set for any condition. Side Effects of Pycnogenol. This nerve affects our balance and hearing by sending signals to the brain. In the control group, there were five thrombotic events; whereas the Pycnogenol-treated subjects only experienced nonthrombotic, local flare-ups. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. - Please read carefully and implement principles included in the Health Recovery Plan. It seems to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the legs. 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]. Pycnogenol effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women [Abstract]. Dr. Steven Lamm did a great job at explaining the new benefits of pycnogenol. 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. 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 . Pycnogenol is the leading ingredient in Isotonix OPC-3, Market America's best-. In the following sections, well discuss the common forms and dosages of Pycnogenol that are commercially available. Grape seed extract may have heart-health benefits. Pine bark distill has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and excitement to torso that has been imposed by exercise. These antioxidants scavenge those damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. 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. 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 . It has many health benefits, and may help protect against several chronic conditions. The top benefits of nattokinase include the following: Regulate blood pressure. 10 Day Erection Delay Sex Pills. ( 4) Thus, this powerful extract works as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. However, its always a good idea to start with a low dose so you can monitor how your body responds. 4. In a third study, 19 men with fertility problems were given 200 mg Pycnogenol daily for 90 days. 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. Pycnogenol in metabolic syndrome and related disorders [Abstract]. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. 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. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. 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. 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. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. Dizziness. Last medically reviewed on January 24, 2018. 40 years of research has been dedicated to establishing the safety of Pycnogenol and its benefits for human health. However, it is also important to see beyond the pyncogenol marketing campaign and understand the possible dangers associated with this natural supplement. Blood clots form as a result of platelet aggregation, which is the platelets in the blood clumping together. In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. 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]. It is found primarily in southwestern France and is used to help people with asthma, allergies, hay fever, and other health conditions..