Research
Pycnogenol
103 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
Pharmacological interventions in primary or secondary male anorgasmia: A systematic review.
Systematic review of pharmacological therapies for male anorgasmia, including cabergoline, yohimbine, bupropion, and pycnogenol. Cabergoline improved orgasm in 66% of patients, yohimbine in 55%, and pycnogenol improved ASEX scores. Mild side effects were reported, with amantadine requiring discontinuation due to depression.
Effects of pycnogenol on cardiometabolic health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 RCTs with 1594 participants evaluating pycnogenol supplementation on cardiometabolic health. Pycnogenol significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, blood pressure, body mass index, LDL cholesterol, and increased HDL cholesterol, suggesting a potential role in preventing cardiometabolic disease.
Effect of pycnogenol supplementation on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 clinical trials with 922 participants examining the effect of pycnogenol supplementation on blood pressure. Pycnogenol was found to reduce systolic blood pressure by -3.22 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by -1.91 mmHg. The effect was more pronounced in studies with longer duration and when pycnogenol was combined with other treatments.
Effect of Pycnogenol on Blood Pressure: Findings From a PRISMA Compliant Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Studies.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 RCTs involving 626 participants assessed the impact of pycnogenol on blood pressure. The analysis found no significant improvement in systolic, diastolic, mean arterial, or pulse pressure following pycnogenol treatment.
The impact of pycnogenol supplementation on plasma lipids in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials with 1,065 participants assessed the impact of pycnogenol supplementation on plasma lipids. The analysis found a significant increase in HDL-C levels, while changes in TC, TAG, and LDL-C were not clinically relevant. Pycnogenol may play a role in cardiovascular disease prevention due to its effect on HDL-C.
The Effect of Pycnogenol Supplementation on Plasma C-Reactive Protein Concentration: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of five trials with 324 participants examining the effect of Pycnogenol supplementation on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The pooled effect size showed a significant reduction in CRP, suggesting Pycnogenol has an anti-inflammatory effect.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of pycnogenol on plasma lipids.
A meta-analysis of 7 controlled trials with 442 patients assessed the effects of Pycnogenol on lipid parameters. The analysis found no significant effect of Pycnogenol on total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, or triglycerides. A dose-effect association was noted for LDL-C, but no other significant associations were found.
Pycnogenol(®) for the treatment of chronic disorders.
Meta-analysis of 15 trials with 791 participants evaluating Pycnogenol for the treatment of seven chronic disorders, including asthma, ADHD, chronic venous insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction, hypertension, and osteoarthritis. Due to small sample sizes and risk of bias, no definitive conclusions regarding efficacy or safety can be drawn.
Pycnogenol® (extract of French maritime pine bark) for the treatment of chronic disorders.
Systematic review of 15 trials with 791 participants evaluating Pycnogenol for the treatment of seven chronic disorders, including asthma, ADHD, chronic venous insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction, hypertension, and osteoarthritis. Due to small sample sizes and risk of bias, no definitive conclusions regarding efficacy or safety can be drawn.
Pycnogenol for diabetic retinopathy. A review.
Review of five clinical trials involving 1289 patients testing Pycnogenol for diabetic retinopathy. Studies showed Pycnogenol retains progression of retinopathy, partly recovers visual acuity, improves capillary resistance, and reduces retinal leakages. Treatment efficacy was comparable to calcium dobesilate with good tolerance and rare side effects.
Impact of a Dietary Supplementation with French Maritime Pine Bark Extract Pycnogenolon Salivary and Serum Inflammatory Biomarkers During Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy-A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Trial.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial studied the effects of Pycnogenol supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers in saliva and serum during non-surgical periodontal therapy. Pycnogenol significantly reduced salivary MMP-8 and serum IL-6 levels compared to placebo, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory effect on gingival inflammation.
Oral Pycnogenol® Intake Benefits the Skin in Urban Chinese Outdoor Workers: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, and Crossover Intervention Study.
RCT of oral Pycnogenol intake (2 x 50 mg/day for 12 weeks) in 76 Han Chinese outdoor workers in Beijing. Pycnogenol prevented skin hydration decrease, transepidermal water loss, and skin darkening during dry autumn, and improved viscoelastic skin properties.
The effect of medicated, sugar-free chewing gum on plaque and clinical parameters of gingival inflammation: a systematic review.
Systematic review of studies on medicated, sugar-free chewing gum containing antimicrobial agents or herbal extracts. Chlorhexidine gum showed a beneficial effect on plaque inhibition, with other ingredients like eucalyptus, acacia, funoran, pycnogenol, and mastic also showing positive outcomes on plaque scores. Limited data on gingivitis scores indicated positive effects from magnolia, eucalyptus, and chlorhexidine.
A randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of Pycnogenol and Bacopa CDRI08 herbal medicines on cognitive, cardiovascular, and biochemical functioning in cognitively healthy elderly people: the Australian Research Council Longevity Intervention (ARCLI) study protocol (ANZCTR12611000487910).
The ARCLI study is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial investigating the effects of Bacopa monnieri and Pycnogenol on cognitive performance, cardiovascular, and biochemical functioning in 465 cognitively healthy elderly participants over 12 months. The study aims to explore cognitive enhancement and potential mechanisms such as cardiovascular and biochemical changes.
French maritime pine bark extract (pycnogenol) in association with triple combination cream for the treatment of facial melasma in women: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 44 women with facial melasma to compare the efficacy of 75 mg pycnogenol taken orally twice a day versus a placebo. The pycnogenol group showed superior reductions in mMASI scores and colorimetric contrast compared to the placebo group, with no adverse effects related to oral treatment.
Pycnogenol supplementation as an adjunct treatment for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction.
Randomized, open-label study of 72 outpatients with depression, comparing escitalopram with and without 50 mg/day Pycnogenol co-treatment for 4 months. Pycnogenol co-treatment attenuated antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction and increased heart rate, likely due to its vasodilatory effects.
Natural polyphenols improve erectile function and lipid profile in patients suffering from erectile dysfunction.
RCT of 53 patients with erectile dysfunction, including those with diabetes, assessing the effects of Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol improved erectile function by 45% in the DM group and 22% in the NDM group. It also lowered total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and glucose levels in the DM group.
Effect of Pycnogenol® on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.
This phase III trial is a 10-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo and active treatment controlled multicentre trial comparing the effect of Pycnogenol to MPH and placebo on the behaviour of 144 paediatric ADHD and ADD patients. The study evaluates behaviour, immunity, oxidative stress, serum zinc, neuropeptide Y levels, urinary catecholamines, and physical complaints.
Normalization of cardiovascular risk factors in peri-menopausal women with Pycnogenol®.
RCT of 70 peri-menopausal women evaluating Pycnogenol supplementation at 100mg/day for 8 weeks. Pycnogenol decreased cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, blood pressure, homocysteine, and CRP levels, and improved menopausal symptoms significantly compared to control.
Allergic Rhinitis: A Proprietary Extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol) Is Found to Improve the Symptoms Associated With Allergic Rhinitis.
The paper discusses the use of a proprietary extract of Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pycnogenol) in improving symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis.
Circulating levels of reactive oxygen species in patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy and the influence of antioxidant supplementation: 6-month follow-up.
RCT of 68 patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy evaluating antioxidant supplementation with pycnogenol, Vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10. Group A showed significant reductions in reactive oxygen species levels and central macular thickness over 6 months, while Group B showed increased ROS levels and no significant change in CMT.
Improvement of erectile function by a combination of French maritime pine bark and roburins with aminoacids.
RCT evaluating the effects of a combination of Pycnogenol, roburins, L-arginine, and L-citrulline on erectile function in 50 men with moderate ED. Treatment over one month restored erectile function to normal.
Pycnogenol® improves cognitive function, attention, mental performance and specific professional skills in healthy professionals aged 35-55.
This 12-week registry study evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol supplementation on cognitive function, attention, and mental performance in 60 healthy professionals aged 35-55. The Pycnogenol group showed significant improvements in cognitive function, mood, and oxidative stress compared to controls.
Sperm quality in men is improved by supplementation with a combination of L-arginine, L-citrullin, roburins and Pycnogenol®.
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study of 50 subfertile men testing Prelox®R, a combination of Pycnogenol®, L-arginine, L-citrulline, and roburins. Supplementation improved sperm volume, concentration, motility, vitality, and morphology significantly versus placebo, with no adverse effects reported.
Effect of low-dose French maritime pine bark extract on climacteric syndrome in 170 perimenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
RCT of 170 perimenopausal women treated with 30 mg Pycnogenol or placebo twice daily for 3 months. Pycnogenol significantly improved climacteric symptoms, especially vasomotor and insomnia/sleep problems, compared to placebo. Total Kupperman's index decreased significantly by 56% with Pycnogenol.
Lady Prelox® improves sexual function in generally healthy women of reproductive age.
RCT evaluating the effect of Lady Prelox supplementation on sexual function in 100 healthy women with moderate sexual dysfunction. The FSFI scores significantly improved in the Lady Prelox group compared to controls, and oxidative stress levels decreased significantly.
A controlled study shows daily intake of 50 mg of French Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol®) lowers plasma reactive oxygen metabolites in healthy smokers.
RCT of 78 smokers supplemented with 50 mg Pycnogenol for eight weeks, showing significant reduction in plasma reactive oxygen metabolites compared to placebo. Pycnogenol lowered d-ROM values by 25.3% and increased BAP values, indicating reduced oxidative stress.
Evaluation of the effects of supplementation with Pycnogenol® on fitness in normal subjects with the Army Physical Fitness Test and in performances of athletes in the 100-minute triathlon.
This registry study evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol supplementation on physical fitness in normal individuals and athletes. In the Army Physical Fitness Test, Pycnogenol improved running times, push-ups, sit-ups, and reduced oxidative stress. In triathlon training, Pycnogenol improved performance times, reduced cramps and pain, and enhanced metabolic recovery compared to controls.
Pycnogenol® supplementation improves health risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome.
This open, controlled study evaluated the effects of 6-month supplementation with Pycnogenol on health risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Pycnogenol supplementation decreased waist circumference, triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and increased HDL cholesterol levels. It also lowered fasting glucose and reduced plasma free radicals more effectively than controls.
Prevention of post thrombotic syndrome with Pycnogenol® in a twelve month study.
This twelve-month registry study compared the efficacy of compression stockings and oral Pycnogenol on post-thrombotic syndrome in 156 patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis. Pycnogenol was more effective than compression stockings in reducing edema symptoms from six months onwards, and the combination of both treatments was superior to either alone. No new DVT cases occurred in the Pycnogenol groups, and patient compliance was higher with Pycnogenol.
Pycnogenol® improvements in asthma management.
RCT evaluating the efficacy of Pycnogenol® in asthma management over six months. Pycnogenol® improved asthma control, reduced the need for inhaled corticosteroids, and decreased asthma symptoms compared to ICS-only treatment. No serious adverse events were observed.
Pycnogenol® supplementation improves cognitive function, attention and mental performance in students.
RCT of Pycnogenol supplementation in 53 students over 8 weeks, showing improvements in sustained attention, memory, executive functions, and mood ratings. The Pycnogenol group performed better in university examinations compared to controls.
Clinical assessment of a supplement of Pycnogenol® and L-arginine in Japanese patients with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.
A double-blind parallel group RCT in Japanese patients with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction assessed the efficacy of a supplement containing Pycnogenol and L-arginine. The supplement improved the IIEF-5 score, particularly in 'hardness of erection' and 'satisfaction with sexual intercourse', and decreased blood pressure. No adverse reactions were observed.
Improvement of signs and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and microangiopathy with Pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study.
Prospective, controlled study evaluating the efficacy of Pycnogenol in 98 patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Patients were treated with Pycnogenol, compression stockings, or both. After 8 weeks, Pycnogenol alone was more effective than compression alone, and the combination treatment showed the best results. No side-effects were observed.
Pycnogenol treatment of acute hemorrhoidal episodes.
RCT investigating the efficacy of orally and topically applied Pycnogenol for acute hemorrhoidal attacks in 84 subjects. Pycnogenol-treated groups showed significantly greater improvement in signs and symptoms compared to placebo, with complete absence of hemorrhoidal bleeding in treated patients after seven days and at 14 days follow-up.
Kidney function in metabolic syndrome may be improved with Pycnogenol®.
RCT investigating Pycnogenol as an adjunct to hypotensive medication in metabolic syndrome patients with micro-albuminurea. Pycnogenol improved kidney function, reduced CRP levels, lowered fasting blood glucose and HbA1c, and decreased BMI. Limited improvement in blood lipid profile was observed.
Improvement in cochlear flow with Pycnogenol® in patients with tinnitus: a pilot evaluation.
Pilot evaluation of Pycnogenol in 58 patients with mild-to-moderate tinnitus to assess its efficacy in improving cochlear flow. Patients were divided into two groups receiving 150 mg/day and 100 mg/day of Pycnogenol, respectively. Results showed significant improvement in cochlear flow velocity in the treatment groups compared to controls, suggesting Pycnogenol may relieve tinnitus symptoms by enhancing cochlear blood flow.
Kidney flow and function in hypertension: protective effects of pycnogenol in hypertensive participants--a controlled study.
This controlled study evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol as an adjunct to ramipril in hypertensive patients with early renal function issues. The group taking Pycnogenol showed significant reductions in diastolic blood pressure, urinary albumin, and CRP levels, as well as enhanced kidney cortical flow velocities compared to the ramipril-only group.
How does pycnogenol® influence oxidative damage to DNA and its repair ability in elderly people?
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigating the effect of Pycnogenol on oxidative DNA damage and repair ability in elderly people. Three months of Pycnogenol administration showed no effect on oxidative damage to DNA or repair ability, though a relationship between oxidative damage and repair ability was observed.
Improvement of seminal parameters with Prelox: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial.
RCT with 50 infertile patients using a cross-over design to compare Prelox (l-arginine aspartate and Pycnogenol) to placebo. Prelox significantly improved semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, enhancing the fertility index to normal values. No adverse effects were reported.
Daily consumption of Reliv Glucaffect for 8 weeks significantly lowered blood glucose and body weight in 50 subjects.
RCT of 50 overweight subjects comparing Glucaffect to an inactive control for 8 weeks. Glucaffect significantly lowered blood-fasting glucose, Hba1c, weight, and BMI, suggesting benefits for metabolic syndrome management.
Variations in C-reactive protein, plasma free radicals and fibrinogen values in patients with osteoarthritis treated with Pycnogenol.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 156 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were treated with Pycnogenol for 3 months. Pycnogenol significantly decreased joint pain, improved joint function, and reduced plasma free radicals, CRP, and fibrinogen levels, indicating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Treatment of osteoarthritis with Pycnogenol. The SVOS (San Valentino Osteo-arthrosis Study). Evaluation of signs, symptoms, physical performance and vascular aspects.
This double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy of 100 mg Pycnogenol daily in patients with osteoarthritis over 3 months. The treatment group showed a 56% decrease in WOMAC scores, improved walking distance, reduced use of antiinflammatory drugs, and decreased gastrointestinal complications compared to placebo.
French maritime pine bark extract significantly lowers the requirement for analgesic medication in dysmenorrhea: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
RCT of 116 women aged 18-48 years comparing Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) to placebo for menstrual pain in dysmenorrhea. Pycnogenol significantly lowered pain scores and reduced the requirement for analgesic medication, with effects persisting after discontinuation.
Pycnogenol may alleviate adverse effects in oncologic treatment.
Pilot trial exploring Pycnogenol supplementation in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Pycnogenol reduced the frequency and severity of side effects such as soreness, ulceration, nausea, vomiting, and cognitive impairment compared to placebo. The study suggests Pycnogenol's potential benefits in alleviating treatment-related side effects.
An examination of the effects of the antioxidant Pycnogenol on cognitive performance, serum lipid profile, endocrinological and oxidative stress biomarkers in an elderly population.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT with 101 elderly participants examining the effects of 150 mg daily Pycnogenol on cognitive performance and biochemical measures over three months. Pycnogenol improved working memory and decreased concentrations of F2-isoprostanes compared to the control group.
Effect of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT of 100 patients with knee osteoarthritis stages I and II, treated with 150 mg Pycnogenol per day for 3 months. Pycnogenol improved WOMAC index and alleviated pain significantly compared to placebo, and reduced the use of analgesics.
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Pycnogenol on the climacteric syndrome in peri-menopausal women.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 200 peri-menopausal women, of which 155 completed the study, evaluated the effect of Pycnogenol on climacteric syndrome. Pycnogenol improved climacteric symptoms, increased antioxidative status, and favorably altered LDL/HDL ratio without side effects.
[Sperm parameters in male idiopathic infertility after treatment with prelox].
Double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over RCT investigating the effects of Prelox on sperm parameters in 50 men with idiopathic infertility. The study found that Prelox improved sperm quality, with better therapeutic responses in middle-aged men compared to younger men. Pycnogenol, a constituent of Prelox, was noted for its antioxidative influence on spermatozoa function.
Improvement of erectile function with Prelox: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial.
RCT with 50 patients with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction using a combination of L-arginine aspartate and Pycnogenol (Prelox) for 1 month. Erectile function was restored to normal, intercourse frequency doubled, and significant increases in e-NOS and testosterone levels were observed. Cholesterol levels and blood pressure were lowered without unwanted effects.
Urinary catecholamines in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): modulation by a polyphenolic extract from pine bark (pycnogenol).
RCT testing the effects of Pycnogenol, a polyphenolic extract from pine bark, on ADHD children. Treatment with Pycnogenol reduced hyperactivity, normalized catecholamine concentrations, and reduced oxidative stress.
Comparison of Pycnogenol and Daflon in treating chronic venous insufficiency: a prospective, controlled study.
Prospective controlled study comparing the efficacy of oral Pycnogenol to Daflon in 86 patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency. Pycnogenol showed significant improvements in microcirculatory results, symptomatic venous score, and reduction in edema compared to Daflon, with significant effects observed after 4 weeks.
Cramps and muscular pain: prevention with pycnogenol in normal subjects, venous patients, athletes, claudicants and in diabetic microangiopathy.
This study assessed the preventive action of Pycnogenol on cramps and muscular pain in various groups, including healthy subjects, athletes, and patients with venous disease, claudication, and diabetic microangiopathy. Over a 5-week period, Pycnogenol significantly reduced the number of cramp episodes and muscular pain scores compared to baseline and placebo groups, suggesting its effectiveness in reducing pain and cramps during retraining and rehabilitation.
Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol.
RCT of 61 children with ADHD comparing 1 mg/kg/day Pycnogenol to placebo over 4 weeks. Pycnogenol significantly reduced hyperactivity and improved attention, visual-motor coordination, and concentration. No positive effects were found in the placebo group, and symptoms relapsed after stopping Pycnogenol.
Control of edema in hypertensive subjects treated with calcium antagonist (nifedipine) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with Pycnogenol.
This 8-week study evaluated the efficacy of Pycnogenol in preventing edema caused by antihypertensive treatments in hypertensive patients. A significant decrease in capillary filtration was observed in the Pycnogenol groups, suggesting it helps control edema and allows for reduced doses of antihypertensive drugs.
The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effect of Pycnogenol on glutathione levels and total antioxidant status in children with ADHD. Pycnogenol administration significantly decreased oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and increased reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, improving the GSH/GSSG ratio and normalizing total antioxidant status.
Pycnogenol alleviates pain associated with pregnancy.
The study investigated the effect of Pycnogenol supplementation at 30 mg/day in women in the third trimester of pregnancy experiencing various types of pain. A significant reduction in pain scores was observed in the Pycnogenol group compared to the control group, with no unwanted effects reported.
Effect of polyphenolic extract, Pycnogenol, on the level of 8-oxoguanine in children suffering from attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
RCT testing the effect of Pycnogenol on oxidative DNA damage and total antioxidant status in children with ADHD. Pycnogenol administration reduced oxidative DNA damage, normalized TAS, and improved attention in ADHD children.
Prevention of edema in long flights with Pycnogenol.
RCT evaluating the prevention of edema during long-haul flights with Pycnogenol in 169 asymptomatic subjects. The Pycnogenol group showed significantly less increase in edema score, RAS, and ankle circumference compared to the control group, indicating a positive effect on edema prevention.
Prevention of venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis in long-haul flights with pycnogenol.
RCT evaluating Pycnogenol for preventing deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) in long-haul flights. 198 subjects at moderate to high risk were included. The Pycnogenol group had no thrombotic events, while the control group had five. Pycnogenol was effective in reducing thrombotic events during flights.
Antidiabetic effect of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in patients with diabetes type II.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multi-center study with 77 type II diabetes patients investigated the anti-diabetic effects of Pycnogenol. Supplementation with 100 mg Pycnogenol for 12 weeks significantly lowered plasma glucose levels and improved endothelial function compared to placebo. Pycnogenol was well-tolerated with no significant changes in ECG, electrolytes, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen.
Pycnogenol as an adjunct in the management of childhood asthma.
A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study with 60 children aged 6-18 years evaluated the effect of Pycnogenol on mild-to-moderate asthma over 3 months. The Pycnogenol group showed significant improvements in pulmonary functions and asthma symptoms, reduced use of rescue inhalers, and decreased urinary leukotrienes compared to placebo.
Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves endothelial function of hypertensive patients.
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group study with 58 hypertensive patients investigated the effects of Pycnogenol. Supplementation with 100 mg Pycnogenol over 12 weeks reduced the dose of nifedipine needed and decreased endothelin-1 concentrations significantly compared to placebo. The study supports Pycnogenol supplementation for mildly hypertensive patients.
French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol dose-dependently lowers glucose in type 2 diabetic patients.
The study investigates the effects of Pycnogenol, a French maritime pine bark extract, on glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients, finding a dose-dependent reduction in glucose.
Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical studies
Narrative review of 39 randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving 2,009 subjects, examining the effects of Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract. The extract showed beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, chronic venous insufficiency, cognition, joint health, skin health, eye health, women’s health, respiratory health, allergies, oral health, and sports performance.
Distribution of Constituents and Metabolites of Maritime Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol®) into Serum, Blood Cells, and Synovial Fluid of Patients with Severe Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
RCT investigating the in vivo distribution of Pycnogenol® constituents in 33 patients with severe osteoarthritis. The study found variability in polyphenol pharmacokinetics, with catechin and taxifolin primarily in blood cells and synovial fluid, and ferulic acid absent in the control group. This suggests polyphenols distribute into synovial fluid, supporting clinical efficacy studies.
Cellular pharmacodynamic effects of Pycnogenol® in patients with severe osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled pilot study.
Randomized controlled pilot study of 33 patients with severe osteoarthritis receiving 100 mg of Pycnogenol twice daily or no treatment before knee arthroplasty. Pycnogenol intake downregulated gene expression of cartilage degradation markers and reduced protein concentrations of ADAMTS-5, indicating positive effects on catabolic and inflammatory markers.
Effect of Pycnogenol on the Healing of Venous Ulcers.
This randomized clinical trial evaluated the effect of pycnogenol and diosmin/hesperidin on the healing of venous ulcers in 30 patients. Both treatments significantly decreased the circumference of affected limbs, suggesting pycnogenol has an adjuvant effect similar to diosmin/hesperidin.
A dietary supplement improves facial photoaging and skin sebum, hydration and tonicity modulating serum fibronectin, neutrophil elastase 2, hyaluronic acid and carbonylated proteins.
RCT testing VISCODERM Pearls, a dietary supplement containing Pycnogenol, collagen, coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine sulfate, on facial photoaging in 30 women. The supplement improved VAS photoaging score, skin hydration, sebum, and tonicity, and altered serum levels of fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, neutrophil elastase 2, and carbonylated proteins compared to placebo.
Effect of natural polyphenols (Pycnogenol) on oxidative stress markers in children suffering from Crohn's disease--a pilot study.
Pilot RCT studying the effect of Pycnogenol on oxidative stress markers in 15 pediatric Crohn's disease patients in remission. Pycnogenol positively influenced oxidative stress parameters after 10 weeks of administration, showing potential benefits for gut health and inflammation.
Effects of Pycnogenol on endothelial function in patients with stable coronary artery disease: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study.
This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol on endothelial function in 23 patients with coronary artery disease. Pycnogenol treatment improved flow-mediated dilatation and reduced oxidative stress, indicating improved endothelial function compared to placebo.
Pycnogenol® effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women.
RCT of 20 healthy postmenopausal women supplemented with Pycnogenol for 12 weeks. Pycnogenol significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity, with increased gene expressions of hyaluronic acid synthase and collagen type I, suggesting benefits for skin aging.
Supplementation with Pycnogenol® improves signs and symptoms of menopausal transition.
RCT of 38 women using 100 mg Pycnogenol daily for eight weeks to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Significant improvements were observed in symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and oxidative stress levels compared to a control group.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study to evaluate the potential of pycnogenol for improving allergic rhinitis symptoms.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial explored Pycnogenol for relieving allergic rhinitis symptoms. In 2009, 39 subjects treated 5-8 weeks before the birch allergy season showed lower eye and nasal symptoms compared to placebo. The study suggested better symptom relief with longer pre-exposure supplementation.
Pycnogenol improves microcirculation, retinal edema, and visual acuity in early diabetic retinopathy.
RCT of 46 patients with early diabetic retinopathy comparing Pycnogenol to placebo for 3 months. Pycnogenol group showed significant improvements in retinal edema, retinal thickness, and visual acuity, with enhanced retinal blood circulation.
Reduction of cardiovascular risk factors in subjects with type 2 diabetes by Pycnogenol supplementation.
RCT of 48 subjects with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, testing Pycnogenol supplementation (125 mg daily) vs placebo for 12 weeks. Pycnogenol improved blood pressure control, reduced plasma endothelin-1, lowered HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and LDL cholesterol, and decreased urinary albumin levels, indicating improved diabetes control and reduced cardiovascular risk factors.
Effects of Mirtogenol on ocular blood flow and intraocular hypertension in asymptomatic subjects.
RCT evaluating the effects of Mirtogenol on intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular blood flow in 38 asymptomatic subjects with intraocular hypertension. Mirtogenol significantly lowered IOP and improved ocular blood flow compared to untreated controls after three months, suggesting it may help prevent glaucoma.
Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans.
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effects of Pycnogenol on endothelium-dependent vasodilation in healthy young men. Pycnogenol augmented forearm blood flow response to acetylcholine, indicating increased nitric oxide production and improved endothelial function.
Improvement of diabetic microangiopathy with pycnogenol: A prospective, controlled study.
Prospective controlled study investigating the efficacy of oral Pycnogenol in patients with diabetic microangiopathy. Patients treated with Pycnogenol showed improvement in microcirculatory and clinical evaluations, including decreased skin flux at rest and improved venoarteriolar response, compared to controls.
Rapid relief of signs/symptoms in chronic venous microangiopathy with pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study.
Prospective controlled study investigating the efficacy of oral Pycnogenol in patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency. Patients treated with Pycnogenol showed a progressive decrease in skin flux, significant decrease in capillary filtration, improvement in symptomatic score, and reduction in edema over 8 weeks, while controls showed no visible effects.
Venous ulcers: microcirculatory improvement and faster healing with local use of Pycnogenol.
This study evaluated the local effects of Pycnogenol on venous ulcer healing associated with venous hypertension over 6 weeks. In 18 patients, the combination of oral and local Pycnogenol treatment resulted in faster healing of venous ulcers compared to oral treatment alone.
Inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 activity by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol).
The study investigated the inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 activity by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of Pycnogenol. Blood samples from volunteers showed moderate inhibition of COX activities after 5 days of 200 mg Pycnogenol intake, and a significant increase in inhibition 30 minutes after a single 300 mg dose, indicating rapid bioavailability of active compounds.
Analgesic efficacy of French maritime pine bark extract in dysmenorrhea: an open clinical trial.
Open clinical trial of 47 patients with menstrual pain treated with Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) at 30 mg orally twice a day. Pycnogenol significantly lowered abdominal pain scores and reduced the number of days with pain, showing potential analgesic effects on menstrual pain.
Comparative study of Venostasin and Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency.
Comparative study of Venostasin (horse chestnut seed extract) and Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) in 40 patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Pycnogenol significantly reduced limb circumference and improved symptoms, while also decreasing cholesterol and LDL levels. Venostasin showed moderate effects without significant changes in lipid values.
PYCNOGENOL chewing gum minimizes gingival bleeding and plaque formation.
Double-blind RCT comparing chewing gums with and without 5 mg PYCNOGENOL in 40 human subjects over 14 days. PYCNOGENOL gums significantly reduced gingival bleeding and prevented plaque accumulation, unlike control gums.
Treatment of melasma with Pycnogenol.
RCT of 30 women with melasma taking 75 mg Pycnogenol daily for 30 days. The treatment reduced melasma area and pigmentary intensity significantly, with an 80% effective rate and no side effects. Associated symptoms like fatigue and anxiety also improved.
Supplementation with a pine bark extract rich in polyphenols increases plasma antioxidant capacity and alters the plasma lipoprotein profile.
RCT of 25 healthy subjects receiving 150 mg/day of Pycnogenol for 6 weeks. Pycnogenol increased plasma antioxidant capacity and improved lipid profile by reducing LDL-cholesterol and increasing HDL-cholesterol. Effects on LDL reversed after washout, but HDL increase persisted.
An experimental comparison of Pycnogenol and methylphenidate in adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study of Pycnogenol and methylphenidate in 24 adults with ADHD. Neither Pycnogenol nor methylphenidate outperformed placebo in improving ADHD symptoms, as measured by various rating scales and tests.
Solar ultraviolet-induced erythema in human skin and nuclear factor-kappa-B-dependent gene expression in keratinocytes are modulated by a French maritime pine bark extract.
RCT investigating the effect of oral supplementation of Pycnogenol on UV-induced erythema in human skin. Pycnogenol increased the UVR dose necessary to achieve minimal erythema dose (MED) and inhibited NF-kappaB-dependent gene expression in keratinocytes, suggesting a protective effect against UV-induced skin damage.
Pycnogenol efficacy in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus patients.
Pilot study evaluating Pycnogenol in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Pycnogenol treatment significantly reduced ROS production, apoptosis, p56(lck) specific activity, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and SLE disease activity index compared to placebo.
Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency.
RCT of 40 patients with chronic venous insufficiency comparing Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) to placebo for 2 months. Pycnogenol significantly reduced subcutaneous edema, heaviness, and pain in the legs, with 60% of patients experiencing complete disappearance of edema and pain.
PYCNOGENOL in chronic venous insufficiency.
The study investigated the efficacy of Pycnogenol in treating chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) through a double-blind phase with 20 patients and an open phase with another 20 patients. Pycnogenol significantly improved leg heaviness, subcutaneous edema, and reduced venous pressure, demonstrating its therapeutic efficacy in CVI. No side effects or changes in blood biochemistry were observed.
Inhibition of smoking-induced platelet aggregation by aspirin and pycnogenol.
The study assessed the effects of Pycnogenol on platelet function in smokers. Smoking increased platelet aggregation, which was prevented by 500 mg Aspirin or 100-125 mg Pycnogenol. A single 200 mg dose of Pycnogenol remained effective for over 6 days against smoking-induced platelet aggregation. Aspirin increased bleeding time significantly, while Pycnogenol did not, suggesting a favorable risk-benefit ratio for Pycnogenol.
Investigation of Pycnogenol® in combination with coenzymeQ10 in heart failure patients (NYHA II/III).
This single-blinded, 12-week observational study investigated the benefits of a Pycnogenol and coenzyme Q10 combination (PycnoQ10) in stable heart failure patients. The study found significant improvements in NYHA class, heart ejection fraction, walking distance, and reduction in distal edema in the PycnoQ10 group compared to controls.
Neurodevelopmental disorders and gut-brain interactions: exploring the therapeutic potential of pycnogenol through microbial-metabolic-neural networks
This narrative review explores the therapeutic potential of pycnogenol, a polyphenol extract of pine bark, in neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as ADHD, ASD, and epilepsy. It discusses the role of the gut-brain axis in NDDs and suggests that pycnogenol may influence this axis through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially affecting the intestinal microbial community.
Review of the pharmacokinetics of French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol®) in humans
This narrative review summarizes the pharmacokinetics of Pycnogenol®, a French maritime pine bark extract, in humans. It discusses the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of its constituents and metabolites, highlighting their bioavailability and distribution in various body compartments.
The COFU3 Study. Improvement in cognitive function, attention, mental performance with Pycnogenol® in healthy subjects (55-70) with high oxidative stress.
This 12-month product registry study evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol supplementation on cognitive function, attention, and mental performance in healthy subjects aged 55-70 with high oxidative stress. Significant improvements were observed in cognitive function and oxidative stress levels in the Pycnogenol group compared to controls.
Facilitated Uptake of a Bioactive Metabolite of Maritime Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) into Human Erythrocytes
The study analyzed the binding of constituents and the metabolite δ-(3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-γ-valerolactone (M1) from pine bark extract Pycnogenol to human erythrocytes. It found that M1 accumulates in erythrocytes via facilitated transport through the GLUT-1 transporter and undergoes further metabolism by conjugation with glutathione.
Inhibition of NF-κB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol)
Study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Pycnogenol in human plasma after oral intake. Plasma samples from seven volunteers inhibited MMP-9 release and NF-κB activation, suggesting bioavailable active principles of Pycnogenol exert anti-inflammatory effects.
Pycnogenol does not impact the antioxidant or vitamin C status of healthy young adults.
Nonrandom intervention study with 27 healthy young adults to assess the impact of Pycnogenol on vitamin C concentration and total antioxidant capacity. Results showed no significant increase in fasting vitamin C concentration or antioxidant capacity after Pycnogenol supplementation.