Pycnogenol is a natural health supplement made from the bark of the maritime pine tree. It can help fight aging, diabetes, cholesterol, arthritis, retinal disease, and strengthen the immune system. It has been extensively researched and may improve cardiovascular health, arthritis, asthma, and allergies. The recommended dosage varies and side effects are rare but can occur. It is not recommended for people with autoimmune diseases or pregnant women.
Pycnogenol is the trademark of the antioxidant dietary supplement made from the bark of the maritime pine tree known as Pinus pinaster. Pycnogenol is said to be one of the most researched natural health products on the market. It can be used to help fight aging, diabetes, cholesterol, arthritis, retinal disease, and to strengthen the immune system. The recommended dosage varies. Although rare, Pycnogenol can have unpleasant side effects, and it is not known if it is safe to take during pregnancy.
More than 230 clinical trials and scientific articles have been published on the safety and benefits of Pycnogenol. Research tends to show that Pycnogenol supplements may help the cardiovascular system, arthritis, asthma, and allergies. The main compounds in Pycnogenol are procyanidins, bioflavinoids, and organic acids. These compounds act as free radical scavengers, reduce inflammation, bind collagen and elastin, and increase endothelial nitric oxide production, which promotes circulation.
A study published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacological Therapy showed that Pycnogenol supplements improved vision in diabetics who had early diabetic retinopathy. A study on diabetics revealed that Pycnogenol improved blood sugar control, reduced cardiovascular risk factors, and reduced the amount of blood pressure medication needed. When people with mild to moderate arthritis took 150 mg of Pycnogenol over the course of three months, they had less pain. Subjects did not need to take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for arthritis pain during this time.
There is no recommended daily average for Pycnogenol supplements, but studies have shown that up to 450 mg per day is safe. The most common doses range from 1 mg per pound of body weight for children with asthma, up to 360 mg per day for people with poor circulation. Pycnogenol supplements are generally available at local markets or health food stores and online stores. They generally come in bottles of 30mg, 50mg, or 100mg capsules and tablets.
Although rare, users have sometimes reported dizziness, digestive problems, headaches, and canker sores after taking Pycnogenol supplements. People with an autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis should avoid Pycnogenol supplements because immune system activity is increased when it is taken. The effectiveness of immunosuppressive medication could also be thwarted, causing an increase in symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
Initial research on the safety of Pycnogenol supplementation during pregnancy shows that it may be safe to take late in pregnancy. As this is only initial research, doctors advise pregnant women, women who could become pregnant, or women who are breastfeeding to avoid it. Additionally, the manufacturers of Pycnogenol recommend that children under the age of six not take the supplement as there has been no research with Pycnogenol and young children. If you’re considering Pycnogenol, it’s probably best to talk to a qualified healthcare professional first.
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