what are the health benefits of pine bark extract

25 Health Benefits of Pine Bark Extract

1. Alleviates oxidative stress by increasing the production of anti-oxidative enzymes that scavenge free radicals.
2. As an anti-inflammatory, pine bark extract can decrease the amount of circulating inflammatory substances in the blood stream.
3. Improves the absorption of other antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E.

More items...

Full Answer

What are the side effects of pine bark extract?

They include:

• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Erectile dysfunction
• High cholesterol
• Memory problems
• Menopause symptoms
• Pain during pregnancy
• Swelling

What does Pycnogenol pine bark extract really do for You?

What Is Pycnogenol Used For?

• Circulation. Pycnogenol has been found to be useful in relieving symptoms in postmenopausal women. ...
• Heart Health. Pycnogenol is often touted as a remedy for high blood pressure, inflammation, and other problems known to increase the risk of heart disease; again here, its effects on ...
• Diabetes. ...
• Tinnitus. ...

Is pine bark extract the same thing as Pycnogenol?

Red pine bark. Pycnogenol is a trademarked name for pine bark extract, and there is little to no difference between the two in terms of composition or effects. You might use pine bark extract or pycnogenol to help treat a variety of medical conditions, including chronic venous insufficiency, retinopathy or erectile dysfunction.

Does pine bark extract interact with cancer?

Pine Bark Extract: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects ... and anti-inflammatory properties have the potential to improve conditions like cancer, ... and immunosuppressants may interact with pine bark.

What are the side effects of pine bark?

Is it safe? No major side-effects have been reported in previous trials, although minor side-effects include stomach upsets and headaches. In theory, pine bark may lower blood pressure and blood sugar level, and these effects have also been reported in some RCTs.

When should you take pine bark extract?

Two capsules are taken 2 hours before the flight and then again 6 hours later. Also, taking pycnogenol 100 mg before a flight, 6 hours after the flight, and the following day appears to reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the veins during long flights.

How much pine bark should I take daily?

Dosing. Maritime pine bark extract has most often been used by adults at a dose of 50 mg, taken 2-3 times daily, for up to one year. It's also used in various products, including creams and topical powders. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition ...

Does pine bark extract raise blood pressure?

Add pine-bark extract to the list of dietary supplements that don't live up to their promises of improved health.

How long does it take for pine bark extract to work?

Effects are more typically felt within 6 hours of taking it. Pine Bark Extract is especially helpful for those suffering from brain fog or memory loss. It helps increase cerebral blood flow and brings more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. Pine Bark Extract is helpful for those dealing with ADHD.

How long does pine bark take to work?

Most of the beneficial substances in pine bark extract should absorb into your system within 24-48 hours.

Is pine bark extract safe to take?

When used as prescribed, pine bark extract is safe and tolerated by most people. Those who are pregnant, older, immunosuppressed, or taking other medications should avoid pine bark extracts.

Is Pycnogenol better than pine bark extract?

Pycnogenol is a trademarked name for pine bark extract, and there is little to no difference between the two in terms of composition or effects. You might use pine bark extract or pycnogenol to help treat a variety of medical conditions, including chronic venous insufficiency, retinopathy or erectile dysfunction.

Is pine bark extract good for your eyes?

A recent study published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics reveals Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, can improve microcirculation, retinal edema and visual acuity in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy.

Which is better grape seed extract or pine bark extract?

The primary sources of OPCs are pine bark extract and grape seed extract. However, the grape seed extract is more widely recommended for its lower cost and because it contains an antioxidant not found in pine bark.

Which is better Pycnogenol or grape seed extract?

When it comes to improving blood flow, the compounds in pycnogenol that improve blood flow are the exact same molecules in grape seed extract that improve blood flow. The benefits of one are the benefits of the other, and the main difference is that grape seed extract is much cheaper.

Who should not take Pycnogenol?

You should also avoid using pine bark extract without talking to your doctor first if you:are pregnant or breastfeeding.have an autoimmune condition.have a bleeding condition.have diabetes.are within two weeks of a scheduled surgery.have liver issues.have a heart condition.

How long does pine bark extract last?

Research suggests that consistently taking pine bark extract for over a month may improve athletic performance. The study found that young adults supplementing with pine bark extract were able to run on a treadmill for a longer duration of time compared to those taking a placebo.

How long before surgery can you take pine bark extract?

Those taking pine bark extract should abstain from taking the supplement at least two weeks before surgery as it may slow blood clotting.

What is the best supplement for kidney function?

Pine bark extract , also known as Pycnogenol, this supplement improves everything from blood pressure to healthy kidney function.

Does pine bark cause dizziness?

Pine bark extract may result in some side effects such as headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal problems, and ulcers in the mouth.

Can pine bark extract cause dizziness?

Before taking this supplement, take the following into consideration: Pine bark extract may result in some side effects such as headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal problems, and ulcers in the mouth.

Can pine bark be used for allergies?

Some people have found that supplementing with pine bark extract before allergy season helped to reduce allergic symptoms in those with an aversion to bark.

Does pine bark help kidneys?

2) Improves Kidney Health. One study found that taking pine bark extract may increase the functioning of kidneys while decre asing the potential for kidney damage resulting from high blood pressure.

What is pine bark extract?

Pine bark extract is an herbal supplement rich in healthy polyphenols like procyan idins, catechins, and phenolic acids.

What are the nutrients in pine bark?

The following is a brief summary of the most notable polyphenol nutrients in pine bark extract and how they may benefit human health: Procyanidins. A type of flavonoid that acts as an antioxidant and appears to have medicinal properties.

Why should pine bark extract be avoided?

Because not enough research has been done supporting its safety in these groups , the use of pine bark extract should be avoided.

What is the name of the French pine bark extract?

Many studies have been conducted on the trademark brand of French maritime pine bark extract known as Pycnogenol. Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, researchers are beginning to investigate it as a possible therapeutic option for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the disease COVID-19 ( 11, 12, 23 ).

How to make maritime pine bark?

Maritime pine bark extract is made by first grinding pine bark, then washing and soaking it in hot water. Next, the solids are removed from the liquid extract ( 2 ).

How long does Pycnogenol help with asthma?

One study including 76 asthma patients found that taking 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol daily for 6 months, in combination with inhaled corticosteroid medications, significantly improved coughing and wheezing and decreased dependency on the corticosteroids ( 31.

What color is the bark of maritime pines?

The bark of maritime pines is thick and grows in various shades of brown, orange, and red.

What Is Pine Bark Extract?

Pine bark extract comes from the inner bark of the Pinus pinaster tree, most commonly found in Europe. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France.

Which is better, pine bark or aspirin?

While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. As noted, aspirin can cause severe gastrointestinal issues. Pycnogenol has not been found to cause these issues — however, it may take a little longer the feel the relief from pain than aspirin. Regardless, a natural option is available and far worth the wait. ( 13)

What is the percentage of OPCs in pine bark?

Pine bark extract can be found in liquid, tablet or capsule form containing 85 percent to 90 percent OPCs. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract.

How long has pine bark been around?

This bark extract has been around for about 450 years. In 1534, a French ship led by the famous explorer Jacques Cartier became stranded in ice near Quebec, Canada. The crew fell extremely ill from scurvy, an extreme lack of vitamin C. Cartier’s crew crossed paths with a Quebec Indian who encouraged them to drink a tea made from pine bark and needles.

Is pine bark good for skin?

Who doesn’t want amazing skin? Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since it’s an antioxidant dynamo.

Does pine bark extract help with pseudomonas?

Staves Off Infections. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. However, healthy people are not immune and can also develop mild infections, ...

Does pine bark help with diabetes?

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. ( 3) 2. Helps Prevent Hearing Loss and Balance.

What is the main function of pine bark extract?

Pine Bark Extract: the main function. The active ingredient in Pine Bark Extract, Pycnogenol, can improve blood flow in vessels. According to studies conducted in 2018, Pycnogenol is responsible for lowering blood pressure to patients with Diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

What is Pine Bark Extract?

Everybody knows it as Pycnogenol; pine bark extract comes from the Pinus Pinaster tree. It is among the most common trees you can find in forests across the world. Some of these trees grow close to the beach. That is why their name refers to the maritime pine tree.

What is the name of the extract that is used to help menstrual cycle?

Belcaro and Rohdewald are famous for their studies on the long-term effects of Pycnogenol on women patients with menstrual cycle disorders. French Maritime Pine Bark Extract is all they need to place their hormones back on track.

How to keep pinus extract?

Pine Bark Extract supplements are convenient to keep at home. You simply need to place the tablets in a dark and well-ventilated place. If you choose to have the Pinus Extract in liquid form, it would be wise to keep it in the refrigerator after opening it.

What is the best natural product for arthritis pain?

People with pain related to arthritis can find their best ailment using the French Pine Bark Extract. To be precise, Maritime Pinus is the best natural product you can try to reduce joint inflammation.

Is pinus bark easy to find?

For that reason, Pine Bark Extract is easy to find. Handling and receiving the Extract is also a significant manufacturing process that involved several steps. Most supplements containing Pinus extract are in the liquid of capsules form so that you can manage to have a stable concentration in your bloodstream.

Who was the first French scientist to correlate the beneficial action of pine bark extract to resist free radicals?

Later on, Masquelier was the first French scientist to correlate the beneficial action of Pine Bark Extract to resist free radicals. He was awarded a US patent for that description study that brought Pycnogenol supplement to the center of the attention.

What is the role of nitric oxide in blood flow?

Nitric oxide is an important molecule that facilitates vasodilation of the blood vessels. Its dilating action on the vessel wall allows it to expand so blood can flow freely. Adequate blood flow means your cells are getting the nutrients and oxygen they need.

Does pycnogenol help with Parkinson's disease?

One study showed that the administration of Pycnogenol®reduced low-grade brain inflammation associated with Parkinson’s disease . It was also able to protect the brain cells from toxic ity and degeneration that worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Does pine bark help with blood sugar?

The therapeutic effects of pine bark and Pycnogenol® on blood sugar and nitric oxide levels protect the heart from diseases like hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Is pine bark good for wounds?

As an antioxidant, pine bark extract are a potent agent against skin problems and skin wounds.

Does pine bark help with diabetes?

Pine bark extract reduces blood sugar levels to a significant degree. One clinical study done on 30 patients with diabetes showed that pine bark extract and Pycnogenol® administration decreased postprandial blood sugar levels as well as HbA1c levels.

Does pine bark help with inflammation?

Pine bark extract produces many beneficial effects that help support the body. It can reduce the risks of developing chronic diseases, and it can also decrease pain and inflammation.

Does pine bark lower cholesterol?

Pine bark and Pycnogenol® have the ability to lower bad cholesterol levels and protect us from its complications like heart diseases and stroke.

How long does pycnogenol 125 mg last?

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. Pycnogenol treatment lowered the ACE-inhibitor dose required to control blood pressure, and lowered fasting glucose levels as well.

Is pycnogenol bad for edema?

In those treated with Pycnogenol, the edema score was increased by 17.9% versus an increase of 58.3% in the control group. Not bad.

Does pycnogenol help with muscle cramps?

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.

Does pycnogenol help with platelet aggregation?

Helps maintain high vitamin C and E blood levels for their antioxidant effects. Inhibits platelet aggregation like low- dose aspirin.

Does pycnogenol speed up ulcer healing?

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.

What Is Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is a patented extract of the French maritime pine bark ( Pinus pinaster ).

How long does it take for pycnogenol to work?

Pycnogenol (up to 200 mg/day) may improve asthma and reduce inflammatory asthma markers in the blood, leukotrienes, after 4 weeks, according to a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 26 asthma patients [ 14 ].

How long does it take for pycnogenol to help with ringing in ears?

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 ].

How long does it take for pycnogenol to improve sexual function?

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 ].

How long does it take for pycnogenol to stop bleeding?

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 contrast, bleeding still occurred in the control group [ 61 ].

Where does pycnogenol come from?

Pycnogenol is officially extracted from the French maritime pine ( Pinus pinaster ), which grows in the southwest coast of France. Its quality is specified in the United States Pharmacopeia [ 3 ].

Does pycnogenol help with ADHD?

A clinical trial of 57 ADHD children found that daily Pycnogenol (1 mg/kg) for one month may reduce hyperactivity symptoms. Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels.