Pycnogenol is the trademarked name for the antioxidant from the French
Maritime Pine tree. But it is basically the same anthocyanin compound
found in grape seed extract. Pycnogenol, like grape seed extract, is a
water-soluble flavonoid, or polyphenol, complex with powerful antioxidant
properties and ability to reduce blood clotting. As an antioxidant, pycnogenol
is thought to offer cardioprotection (reduces risk of atherosclerosis);
reduce cancer risk; improve vascular strength (stronger blood vessels);
reduce edema (both inflammation and swelling); promote eye health (reduces
risk of macular degeneration and cataracts). Research shows that antioxidants
like pycnogenol, grape seed, and green tea are generally 10-100 times
more powerful than common nutrient antioxidants such as vitamins C and
E.
Specific research shows that pycnogenol may be effective in reducing damage
to skin caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun; may be helpful in
reducing cancer cell growth and in modulating chronic inflammation as
shown in cell culture. In human studies, pycnogenol prevents excessive
platelet aggregation (blood clotting) caused by cigarette smoking and
stress. In one study, 100 mg of pycnogenol was as effective as 500 mg
of aspirin for reducing platelet aggregation. But pycnogenol does not
prolong bleeding time like aspirin.
Dosage: 100-200 mg of pycnogenol per day is recommended
as a general antioxidant.
Side Effects: No significant side effects are expected
at recommended intake levels – but intakes of over 600mg per day
could increase bleeding time.
(Source: www.supplementwatch.com)
Research Overview
Research on Pycnogenol shows the following effects:
1. Improves sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction
2. Reduces blood glucose levels
3. Effectively manages chronic asthma
4. Is a free radical scavenger
5. Is an antioxidant
6. Is an antiinflammatory
7. Stops mast cells from releasing histamine
8. Reduces gingival bleeding when utilized in chewing gum
9. Improves capillary resistance
10. Reduces reactive oxygen species apoptosis
11. Reduces retina leakage
12. Protects and regenerates vitamins C and E
13. Protects against UV radiation
14. Effective in treating inflammation in lupus
15. Reduces platelet aggregation in smokers
16. Is a mild antihypertensive
17. Relieves cramping in PMS
18. Improves cognitive function in ADHD
Pycnogenol
Abstracts (35)
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