Pycnogenol

Benefits and Features

Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract is a powerful scavenger of free radicals involved in inflammatory processes. It supports the elasticity and integrity of collagen in joints, capillaries, blood vessels, and skin. This premium French maritime pine bark extract contains numerous bioactive compounds that support capillary and connective tissue function and provide antioxidant protection.

What Pycnogenol Is Used For:

• To reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting overall cellular health.
• Commonly used for improving circulation and reducing symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
• Supports skin health and elasticity, making it popular for anti-aging and sun protection.
• May enhance cognitive function and memory in aging populations.
• Used for menstrual discomfort, endometriosis, and other inflammation-driven gynecological issues.
• Supports athletic recovery and reduces exercise-induced oxidative damage.

What Pycnogenol Does For Your Body:

• Neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting DNA and cellular structures.
• Enhances endothelial function, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
• Reduces inflammation markers like CRP and cytokines.
• Supports collagen and elastin production, aiding skin integrity and vascular flexibility.
• May support blood sugar regulation and reduce diabetic complications.

What Pycnogenol Does In Eastern Medicine:

• Invigorates Blood and promotes circulation, which is especially useful for conditions involving Blood stagnation.
• Clears Heat and toxins from the Blood, aligning with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.
• Nourishes the Liver and Kidney systems, promoting tissue regeneration and anti-aging effects.
• Calms Shen by improving microcirculation in the brain and heart, supporting emotional balance and mental clarity.

What Pycnogenol Does For Fertility:

• Improves endometrial blood flow to prepare for implantation.
• May reduce oxidative stress in reproductive tissues, improving egg and sperm quality.
• Helpful in managing endometriosis by reducing inflammation and pelvic pain.
• May assist male fertility by enhancing sperm motility and reducing DNA fragmentation.

What Pycnogenol Does For Your Hormones:

• Reduces menstrual-related discomfort by lowering prostaglandin and inflammatory mediator levels.
• Supports hormonal balance in estrogen-dominant conditions like endometriosis and PMS.
• May help alleviate perimenopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and cognitive fog.
• Enhances adrenal and vascular resilience during stress-induced hormonal changes.
• Promotes healthy skin and collagen.

Cautions:

• Generally well-tolerated, but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or dizziness in sensitive individuals.
• Should be used with caution in individuals taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.
• Not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data.
• May lower blood pressure—use with caution if hypotension is a concern.

What the Research Says:

• Pycnogenol® significantly lowers menstrual pain and the quantity of required analgesic medication in a multi-center study with four hospitals in Japan. (PMID: 18567279)
• Pycnogenol® reduces symptoms of endometriosis (PMID: 17879831)