Pycnogenol - A Unique and Evidence-based Composition of Nature
Pycnogenol is a unique, premium extract originating from the bark of maritime pine (Pinus pinaster). The trees used for this natural trademark extract grow exclusively in the unspoiled and unpolluted "Les Landes de Gascogne forest" in southwestern France and are free from pesticides and herbicides. Unlike other plants, the maritime pine bark and its active ingredients are not subject to seasonal fluctuations. So, Pycnogenol provides constant proportions of powerful procyanidins, bioflavonoids and phenolic acids. The premium extract not only impresses with inner values but also with scientific arguments. With 40 years of research, 420 scientific publications, and 160 clinical studies, Pycnogenol is one of the world's most studied ingredients.
The Natural Power of Pycnogenol
The naturally programmed composition offers multiple health benefits. As a powerful source of antioxidants, Pycnogenol acts as a potent free radical scavenger, facilities vitamin C regeneration and preserves Vitamin E. Furthermore, it supports vascular function and helps generate collagen hyaluronic acid. These properties make the maritime pine bark extract a multi-talent in several fields.**
Pycnogenol - A Heart-Healthy Strategy**
Keeping the heart and blood vessels healthy is key to sustaining good vitality and overall well-being. Pycnogenol supports cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy circulation, blood flow and blood pressure. Due to its powerful antioxidant effects, the maritime pine bark extract helps protect vascular walls from free radicals. In addition, it supports their integrity by stabilizing collagen membranes and promotes healthy vascular tone by modulating nitric oxide (NO) levels.
Study: Pycnogenol enhances good cholesterol levels**
A vast number of studies indicate that Pycnogenol bears various favorable health benefits for the cardiovascular system – but does this premium extract also influence cholesterol levels? To get to the bottom of this question, researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials with 1,065 participants. The results suggested that while LDL cholesterol ("bad cholesterol") did not change significantly, levels of HDL cholesterol (the good one) increased significantly after taking Pycnogenol®. It can therefore support healthy cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range - a further benefit for cardiovascular health.**
Pycnogenol And Other Major Fields of Application:
Pycnogenol For Cognitive Function**
A well-functioning nervous system is one of the fundamental preconditions for a healthy and self-determined life of all ages. Due to its antioxidant effects, Pycnogenol helps protect the nervous system from oxidative stress. This maritime pine bark extract also supports well-balanced NO levels in the brain. NO promotes healthy blood flow, which supports the oxygen and nutrients supply to brain cells. Furthermore, NO helps regulate nerve functions and modulate important chemical messengers (neurotransmitters).**
Pycnogenol For Skin Care**
The skin is the mirror of the body, reflecting health, age, level of self-care and nutritional status. Many factors affect your outer shell - some of which cannot be influenced, while others can. Pycnogenol, as a dietary supplement, helps support your skin from the inside out. As a potent antioxidant, it contributes to dermal protection against UV rays and photoaging. It participates in the regeneration of collagen and hyaluronic acid, supporting skin elasticity and hydration. Also, Pycnogenol promotes dermal microcirculation, thus supporting the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin and the elimination of waste products.**
Further researched fields of applications are…
- Eye health: Pycnogenol supports the vascular system of the eyes and helps protect the retinal lipids from oxidation.**
- Sports: Pycnogenol promotes blood microcirculation for better blood flow to the muscles. This effect helps the body to achieve peak muscle performance and supports recovery after exercise.**
Are there any side effects?
Most people well tolerate Pycnogenol. However, when taking the pine bark extract for the first time, it is always a good idea to start with a low dose, so you can observe how your body responds. Occasionally, people report side effects such as stomach problems, dizziness, headache, and bad breath. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, pine bark extract is not recommended due to lack of robust safety data.
Is There A Sweet Spot When It Comes to Dosage?
According to the National Institutes of Health, it's possibly safe for adults to supplement 50 to 450 mg of Pycnogenol® daily for up to one year. The optimal amount and the duration depend on the field of application. Consult with your doctor to find out the ideal dose of Pycnogenol for you - This will help you check any potential interactions with medications.
References:
Hadi A et al. 2019. The impact of pycnogenol supplementation on plasma lipids in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Phytother Res. 2019 Feb;33(2):276-287.doi: 10.1002/ptr.6234. Epub 2018 Nov 19.
Zhang Z et al. 2018. Effect of Pycnogenol Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Iran J Public Health. 2018 Jun;47(6):779-787.
Simpson T, Kure C, Stough C. 2019. Assessing the Efficacy and Mechanisms of Pycnogenol ® on Cognitive Aging From In Vitro Animal and Human Studies. Front Pharmacol. 2019 Jul 3;10:694. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00694. eCollection 2019.
Malekahmadi M et al. 2019. Effects of pycnogenol on cardiometabolic health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pharmacol Res. 2019 Dec;150:104472. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104472. Epub 2019 Oct 1.
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/1019.html#Dosage, access: 2021-01-27.
https://www.Pycnogenol® .com/home/, access: 2021-01-27.
https://www.mikronaehrstoffcoach.com/en/micronutrients/micronutrient.401.html, access: 2021-01-27.
Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd. Use of this product may be protected by one or more U.S. patents and other international patents.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
