However, in all the above studies insulin levels did not change. A good-quality study was conducted in 77 diabetic patients who received their standard antidiabetic treatment along with 100 mg Pycnogenol a day or placebo for 12 weeks. For asthma in children: 1 milligram per pound of body weight given in two divided doses. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. 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. 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. All rights reserved. Dizziness. 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. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin is being researched as a potential complementary treatment for multiple . However, these studies appear to be methodologically sound and reliable, with no blatant errors in the study design and data collection. According to researchers, it may help prevent the rise in free radicals typically seen after exercise, which could cause muscle fatigue and damage [9]. Systolic blood pressure measures how much blood is pumping from your heart to your arteries. In one trial of 77 people with type 2 diabetes, pycnogenol (100 mg/day) for 12 weeks lowered both blood sugar levels and HbA1c, a marker of long-term blood glucose levels [31]. Reduces Pain. 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. But, as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. There havent been any studies looking at long-term liver damage. Finally, research suggests that Pycnogenol may improve triathlon time while possibly reducing cramps and post-running pain [10]. Studies have also safely used Pycnogenol in children and during pregnancy. Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a plant indolea plant compound with health-promoting properties. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. 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. (2013). Researchers suggest it may boost sustained attention, memory, executive functions, mood, and reduce oxidative stress [19]. Pycnogenol is a standardized supplement formula guaranteed to contain at least 65-75% proanthocyanidins, the active . Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. In clinical research, doses up to about 300 mg/day have been used for up to one year without major safety concerns [33, 37]. Pycnogenol can help control blood pressure, which helps improve overall heart health. Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since its so high in powerful antioxidants. In 24 people with early eye damage from diabetes, Pycnogenol improved vision, reduced eye swelling, and improved circulation in the eye after 2 months. (2012). A 2021 review in the Arab Journal of Urology listed it first among "promising herbal remedies" for ED. As a skin powder, however, you can use it safely for up to six weeks. 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]. According to research, Pycnogenol may have a multitude of health benefits, which are likely due to this extracts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In a small/preliminary study of kids with asthma, pycnogenol helped improve symptoms. There were 88 in the control group and 81 in the Pycnogenol group. Pycnogenol seems to help with asthma and allergies. Beta 1-3D Glucan is recognized by cells in the immune system, and can modify your immune system responses. Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since its an antioxidant dynamo. Headaches. , Improves Symptoms Associated With Menopause, A number of women experience physical discomfort due to symptoms of menopause. In a study of 20 postmenopausal women, 12 weeks of pycnogenol supplementation improved hydration and elasticity of the skin. 5) Inflammation and Allergies. Lets begin with asthma. Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) may reduce leg swelling, spider veins, and cramps according to a study of 133 women with varicose veins who recently gave birth. A study of 68 people found that Pycnogenol, started 2 days prior to flying, may reduce the duration of jet lag symptoms [83]. Talk to your own doctor about Pycnogenol if youre interested in using it for your own health. Learn more about how to get even skin tone. In the study, many of the participants on Pycnogenol reduced their dosage of high-blood-pressure medication (nifedipine) [37]. Another 2006 study examined the effects of the antioxidant activity of pine bark extract on oxidative stress, which is thought to be one of the nongenetic factors contributing to ADHD. Pycnogenol-treated patients had significant improvement in symptoms as well as a reduction in leg swelling as compared to those not receiving treatment. The study suggests it may increase desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and reduce pain [70]. Helps Increase Athletic Performance. Another highlight of grapes nutrition is the presence of polyphenols, which have been shown to decrease chronic inflammation. The antibacterial activity was assessed indicating that the essential oil of pine bark, specifically the proanthocyanidins, were effective against P. aeruginosa, significantly inhibiting its growth. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. 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. It also may enhance swimming, biking, and running scores in professional athletes preparing for a triathlon (at 150 mg/day). Pycnogenol (100 mg/day) supplementation may decrease symptoms of the common cold and speed up recovery, according to a clinical trial of 146 people. Your email address will not be published. So it . According to the lab results of 10 volunteers, a higher Pycnogenol dose (300 mg) may impact these enzymes after just 30 minutes [52]. 3. Organika Pycnogenol 50mg 100 Tablets. In one human study, some of the reported side effects of chanca piedra supplementation included: abdominal pain. Researchers from the study suggest that low Pycnogenol dosage and short study duration may explain the lack of benefits [44]. As I mentioned, pine bark extract is superior when it comes to antioxidants. Researchers suggest this benefit may be due to an increase in glutathione and SOD, two antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in Crohns [76]. With time, the participants were able to handle more UV radiation without experiencing skin damage [63]. The goal of one study was to evaluate whether or not Pycnogenol could prevent edema (fluid build-up) during long-haul flights in healthy people. 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. In those treated with Pycnogenol, the edema score was increased by 17.9% versus an increase of 58.3% in the control group. Research suggests that taking pycnogenol improves mental function and memory in both young adults and the elderly. Also, be sure to talk with your doctor first if you have an underlying medical condition or take other medications. Clearer skin, healthier hair there are a lot of claims about the health benefits of biotin. Studies have shown that the tree bark can help decrease common symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and others. Pycnogenol is officially extracted from the French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), which grows in the southwest coast of France. Pycnogenol is considered possibly safe when taken orally or when applied topically as a cream or ointment. A high number signals high blood pressure. 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. Pycnogenol: A miracle component in reducing ageing and skin disorders. Diabetic retinopathy is a type of eye injury caused by complications from diabetes. DOI: Trebatick J, et al. Pycnogenol is known under different names in some countries, such as Oligopin, and Flavangenol in Japan [4, 5]. In the Pycnogenol-treated group, blood sugar levels were significantly lowered as compared to those not on Pycnogenol. The top benefits of nattokinase include the following: Regulate blood pressure. SelfDecode does not treat, diagnose or cure any conditions, (14, 15). Blazs G, et al. 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. Are there any risks to taking it? There is currently insufficient evidence to determine what a safe and effective dose of lysine is for specific conditions. Pycnogenol improved symptoms, circulation, and reduced complications in 156 people with deep vein thrombosis (blot clots in deep leg veins) in a 12-month study. Symptoms include swelling in ankles and legs, discolored skin and, if the skin is broken, the development of leg ulcers. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark brand name of French maritime pine bark extract. As a skin cream, its safe to use for about seven days. . 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. You can gradually increase how much you take once you get a better idea of how your body reacts to it. 5. If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. 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. For example, Enzogenol is an extract from a pine that grows in California and Mexico (Pinus radiata) that may have cognitive-enhancing effects. Eye health. ( 1) 2. Pycnogenol treatment resulted in more normal-looking sperm. The first studied group included 66 healthy subjects in whom the number of muscle cramps was recorded two weeks before entering the study and during the fourth and fifth week. 4 Items . Researchers suggest this effect may be due to reduced dopamine and adrenaline levels and increased glutathione levels. Prenatal nutrition can be confusing. In contrast, almost 20% of the participants on inhalers alone had to increase their dosage. Purity and potency of Pycnogenolare continuously monitored . Read More: Health Benefits of Peanut Butter. Trees of this pine have been naturalized in Australia and New Zealand, where most Enzogenol is now made [7]. (11, 12), While both eliminate pain, the pine bark extract is a far better choice. DOI: Gulati OP. We believe that the most accurate information is found directly in the scientific source. In 19 smokers, increased platelet aggregation was more significantly reduced by 200 mg than either 10 mg or 100 mg of Pycnogenol. It can then lead to heart problems like stroke or heart attack. Blood pressure is an important measure of how much blood is pumping from your heart to the rest of your body. A small 2017 study examined the effects of pine bark extract in treating cardiovascular risk factors associated with menopause. In the study, women taking Pycnogenol were more satisfied and compliant to the regimen [24]. Our science team must pass long technical science tests, difficult logical reasoning and reading comprehension tests. Considering that about 1 of 3 adults in the U . (2006). 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]. $47.99. High-dose Pycnogenol (360 mg/day) for 4 weeks had the same LDL-lowering benefits in another study of 40 people [32, 56]. Results failed to show any efficacy of Pycnogenol or methylphenidate when compared to placebo. More research is needed to see how this supplement affects all of these conditions. They were treated with 200 mg of Pycnogenol daily or with placebo. 3. This study adds to a body of research showing the benefits of Pycnogenol . Still, more research is needed to better understand these findings and pine bark extracts role in reducing damage from head trauma. It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps inhibit inflammatory factors to support. A study of 32 people with heart failure lasting 12 weeks suggests that a combination of Pycnogenol with CoQ10 (PycnoQ10) may improve blood pressure, heart function, edema, and capacity for physical activity [40]. Pycnogenol treatment lowered the ACE-inhibitor dose required to control blood pressure, and lowered fasting glucose levels as well. Pycnogenol is the US trademarked name for an antioxidant made from Mediterranean tree bark. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation [Abstract]. People who use the supplement along with their traditional medication usually take smaller doses than those who only take the supplement. Pycnogenol was featured on The Dr. Oz Show in January 2013, . For people who have symptoms that are more severe, traditional medicine is probably more effective. There's good evidence that pycnogenol helps with eye damage caused by diabetes. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. A number of clinical trials suggest that Pycnogenol may lower blood glucose if taken daily for at least 12 weeks. He later extracted proanthocyanidins from the European coastal pine tree, which he named Pycnogenol.. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Used early on, it may prevent eye damage and blindness from diabetes [34]. The researchers of the study propose that pycnogenol may reduce pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation in people with blood vessel problems [11]. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, nattokinase has been used to help with pain from arthritis, including that of rheumatoid arthritis. In a smaller study of 58 people, pycnogenol reduced the inflammatory marker CRP [49, 50]. Chestnut seed extract did not do as well. 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]. 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. It has been studied for its effects on everything from mental function to treating high blood pressure. According to a large analysis, Pycnogenol may reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and pain short-term [45, 46]. nausea. Chemistry. 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. Thirty patients with diabetic ulcers were treated with 150 mg Pycnogenol daily for four weeks and another group of 30 comparable patients received no treatment. Skin irritation. Regardless of what youre using it for, its best to start with the lowest possible dose. But a month after pycnogenol was stopped, the symptoms came back, suggesting that it may need to be used regularly to achieve the benefits [41]. Diarrhea. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of natures super antioxidants? Upset stomach. Clinical research suggests that Pycnogenol is possibly effective for improving athletic performance. Today's Dietitian: "Pycnogenol Supplement Offers Promise for Managing a Variety of Conditions." Asthma is caused by inflammation in the lungs, which makes it hard to breathe. In another study, 61 children with ADHD were given one mg per kg/day of Pycnogenol or placebo over four weeks. What gives pine bark extract its notoriety as a powerful ingredient and super antioxidant is that its loaded with oligomeric proanthocyanidin compounds, OPCs for short. A 2015 review indicates that pine bark extract can be used to treat metabolic syndrome and related disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Pycnogenol, an extract of French maritime pine bark, helps the body fight normal aging by supporting vascular health and healthy circulation. Helps Treat Erectile Dysfunction. 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. Pycnogenol has several benefits to your health and beauty. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. These benefits appeared to persist for some time even after stopping supplementation [72]. 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. Here are some basic guidelines as reported by WebMD: While most studies do not indicate major side effects, pine bark extract may cause irritability and fatigue, and could interact with other drugs. (3), Ototoxicity is ear poisoning and can occur when exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as cisplatin, that damage the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve. The women taking Pycnogenol also experienced improvement in fatigue, sleep, concentration, memory, dizziness, and mood, including less irritability. A total of 40 patients with retinopathy (damage to the retina part of the eye) from diabetes and other vascular causes were enrolled in one study. The following purported benefits of Pycnogenol are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. 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. Proper nutrition is essential for ADHD treatment. Another group of men who took just l-arginine didnt improve [66]. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) All included participants had subclinical cognitive impairment, which looks like typical brain fog [22]. Researchers suggest that it may have stronger benefits than elastic compression stockings. Possess Anti-Inflammatory Action. This bark extract has been around for about 450 years. This condition is due to the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower legs. Pain score in the Pycnogenol-treated group was reduced by 56%, as compared to 9.6% reduction in the placebo group. You should also avoid using pine bark extract without talking to your doctor first if you: You should also do additional research or talk to your doctor before taking pine bark extract if you also take: While pine bark extract is a natural supplement, it can have powerful effects on your health, both positive and negative. According to some researchers, when you take Pycnogenol [8]: Research suggests that Pycnogenol may protect cells in the body against oxidative stress. 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. One study of 211 found that Pycnogenol may help prevent edema and ankle swelling from long flights [27]. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. 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. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Risks. This supplement may also increase muscle endurance and performance after a single pre-exercise dose according to a study of 9 cyclists [12, 13]. 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. Staves Off Infections. 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]. 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].
March 11, 2023