Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract

Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract

30 capsules

Item Catalog Number: K1670EN

Every day, we are exposed to free radicals and oxidative stress. Many clinical studies have shown that natural antioxidants may offer strong protection against oxidative damage.

Among other antioxidants, Pycnogenol® stands out for its exceptional effectiveness in neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. 

The unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids naturally contained in the maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol® shows four basic properties: it's a powerful antioxidant, shows strong anti-inflammatory effects, supports collagen and hyaluronic acid production and supports endothelial nitric oxide production, which helps to dilate blood vessels.[1,2]

Benefits at a Glance:

• Inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress

• Supports cardiovascular health

• Supports cognitive health and shows neuroprotective properties

• Supports glucose control in diabetics

• Combats key aging mechanisms

• Shows anti-aging properties and improves skin condition

• 100% plant-derived

Pycnogenol®, inflammation and oxidative stress

Inflammation and oxidative stress are crucial in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases: type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. Therefore, reducing inflammation and reducing oxidative stress may prove to be very important in the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases.[4]

The anti-inflammatory effect of Pycnogenol® is based on inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators caused by oxidative stress. By stimulating antioxidant pathways, Pycnogenol® reduces the number of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers, which, among other things, prevents lipid peroxidation. [5,6]

Pycnogenol® and its metabolites alsso inhibit the release of tissue-destroying enzymes and inhibit the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase, which is responsible for the development of inflammation and associated pain. [7,8]

Pycnogenol® and the cardiovascular system

Pycnogenol® may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people with type 2 diabetes. [9,10,11]

Twenty-three people with coronary artery disease participated in an 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. The aim of the study was to determine the efficacy of Pycnogenol® supplementation as an adjunct to standard therapy for coronary artery disease. Study participants received Pycnogenol® 200 mg/day followed by placebo or vice versa.[9-13]

The study showed that Pycnogenol® improves endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease by reducing oxidative stress.[9-13]

Pycnogenol® and cognitive health

A 12-week study examining the effects of Pycnogenol® on cognitive function, mental performance and attention involved 30 healthy professionals exposed to increased oxidative stress related to their work. The study participants consumed 150 mg/day of Pycnogenol®. After 12 weeks of the study, the participants receiving Pycnogenol® showed significant improvement over the control group. There was a greater than 30% reduction in oxidative stress. The study participants who consumed Pycnogenol® also showed improved alertness, reduced anxiety, and increased happiness.[14]

The study showed that supplementation with Pycnogenol® for 12 weeks may improve cognitive function and alleviate oxidative stress in healthy individuals aged 35-55.[14]

Further research is being conducted on new applications of the unique extract Pycnogenol®. Comprehensive research and development programs are being carried out in cooperation with scientists and specialist companies around the world, and new applications of Pycnogenol® are being studied every year.[15]

Pycnogenol® and Diabetes

Pycnogenol supports blood glucose control, which is crucial for diabetes. Liu et al.'s (2004) study showed that after 8 weeks of supplementation, fasting glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes dropped by an average of 23%, and insulin sensitivity increased by 52% [17]. These results suggest that Pycnogenol may support diabetes management and reduce the risk of complications related to blood vessel damage.

Pycnogenol® combats key mechanisms of aging

In laboratory studies, Pycnogenol® has been shown to directly and indirectly turn off at least five key mechanisms of aging: oxidative stress, cell membrane damage, DNA damage, inflammation, glycation.[18]

In addition to reducing skin aging, Pycnogenol® prevents wrinkling and even reduces skin symptoms of cardiovascular disease. In addition, Pycnogenol® reduces the risk of other age-related diseases: heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, and arthritis. Pycnogenol® strengthens the body's natural defenses against premature aging.[18]

Pycnogenol® and skin condition

The 12-week study involved 20 postmenopausal women. The study assessed the effect of Pycnogenol® supplementation on skin condition. Skin condition was assessed before, during and throughout the study. Pycnogenol® supplementation was well tolerated by all study participants.[3]

Pycnogenol® supplementation significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity, especially in participants who had dry skin before the study began.[3]

Pycnogenol® supplementation increased both skin hydration and elasticity, which is most likely due to increased synthesis of hyaluronic acid and collagen. Pycnogenol® supplementation may therefore be useful in counteracting clinical signs of skin aging.[3]

Supplement Facts

Serving Size: 1 capsule

Product suitable for vegetarians

Clean label - capsules contain only active ingredients, without binders, fillers, glidants or other additives

Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd. This product may be covered by one or more US or foreign patents.

Vcaps® is a trademark of Lonza or its affiliates.

Dosage and Use

Unless your doctor recommends otherwise, take 1 capsule daily.