Pycnogenol

An Overview of Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol is a pine bark extract produced from the French maritime pine trees that grow in coastal region of southwest France. ^{[1, 2, 3]} Pycogenol is patented blend of bioflavonids which versatility and extensive health benefits make it one of the main bioflavonoid combinations which protect the body at cellular level. ^[4] Pycnogenol is trademarked name of extract of pine bark which is the first discovered source of Oilgomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPC), was patented in 1950. ^[2] Oilgomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) make pycnogenol a unique compound as they possess antioxidant activity superior to even vitamin C and E. ^[1] The active component of pycnogenol plays a legendary role because they have ability to provide antioxidant support, improve circulation, respiratory challenges, and heal wounds. ^[1] Various researches on pycnogenol have skyrocketed and it is revealed that it plays a brightest role in cardiovascular health. ^[1]

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Role of Active Component of Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol serves as a main source of oilgomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) which is naturally occurring substances present in a variety of food. They are unique phytochemcial known as flavonoids that have powerful antioxidant capabilities. OPCs are extremely water soluble, so the body is able to absorb them rapidly. Some clinical trials suggest that OPCs to the extent fifty times more powerful than vitamin E and twenty times more potent than vitamin C in antioxidant activity.

OPCs work with another antioxidant glutathione to recycle and restore vitamin C and boost the effectiveness of vitamins. OPCs have ability to avoid brain and spinal cord from free radical damage. As it has antioxidant effect so it may helpful for supporting the liver health and quench free radical damage. ^[2]

Health Benefits of Pycnogenol

Positive Effects on Cardiovascular Health

The potential health benefits of this unique compound are far-reaching for human wellness. ^[1] Some of the remarkable findings profoundly focused on the role that pycnogenol seems to play in cardiovascular health. ^{[1, 2, 4]}

Effects on Blood Vessels

Pycnogenol contains OPCs which are considered as most potent and effective antioxidant of all antioxidants. This antioxidant ability of OPCs supports blood vessels health and stop free radical damage because blood vessels are constantly under free radical attack. ^[1] Pycnogenol increases the levels of vitamin C in the body which may help strengthen the capillary walls against the kind of traumatic injury that causes bruises. ^{[4, 5]}

Wholesome Effects on Blood Pressure

Scientists conducted numerous studies on pycnogenol and have universally agreed the pycnogenol is appears to exhibits its positive effects on high blood pressure and modifies it to healthy level. ^[1]

Healthy Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol is one the most common warning signs of heart problems. Pycongenol has ability to boost good cholesterol level and decrease the level of bad cholesterol. ^[1]

Effects on Circulatory System

Poor circulation can lead to different life threatening conditions; in this regard pycnogenol plays a key role in providing beneficial effects in restoring healthy circulation throughout the body. ^[1]

Favorable Effects on Wound Healing

Researches are continued to explore more health benefits of pycongenol and some of the most impressive findings suggest that pycnogenol possess healing properties ^{[1, 4]} and it may strengthen and repair the connective tissues. ^{[2, 3]}

Effects on Skin Health

Pycnogenol shows its positive effects on skin health ^{[2, 4, 6]} and also slow down the process of aging. ^[2]

Advantageous Effects on Immunity

Pycnogenol supports immune system and moderates allergic and inflammatory responses of the body. ^{[2, 4]}

References:

1. Marcia Zimmerman, CN & Jayson Kroner, CSN. (2006). 7-Syndrome Healing. Page No. 126, 127, 128. Chico, California: Nutrition Solution Publications.
2. Phyllis A. Balch, CNC & James F. Balch, M.D. (2000). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. (3rd edition) Page No. Penguin Putnam INC. New York: Avery.
3. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-pycnogenol.html
4. Dr. Richard Firshein (1998) The Nutraceutical Revolution. Page No. 315, 316. London: Vermilion
5. James A. Duke (1997). The Green Pharmacy. Page No. 99. Pennsylvania: Rodale Press Emmaus.
6. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/wounds-000175.htm

Disclaimer

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease.