Pine Bark (2024, 2007) - hypertension and cardiovascular health

2024

Pycnogenol has been a well-known and studied patented extract from French Maritime pine bark that holds many health benefits, including eye health. Among its effects it acts as an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, has a positive effect on blood circulation, and a supporting effect on the extracellular matrix (network surrounding and supporting cells in tissues and organs). Studies have shown Pycnogenol to beneficially affect cardiovascular health, eye health, cognition, joint health, skin health, women's health, respiratory health, chronic venous insufficiency, oral health, sports performance, etc.

Weichmann F, Rohdewald P. (2024). Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical studies. Front Nutr. May 2;11:1389374.

2007

A number of diseases involve inflammation and impairment of endothelial layers: these include not only some vision conditions but hypertension and heart disease. The endothelium is the inner lining of blood vessels. Such dysfunction is generally defined as there being an imbalance between the ability of blood vessels' ability to contract and expand.

Various studies have determined that the relationship between obesity, inflammation and other risk factors is a critical factor in such endothelial dysfunction which causes circulation problems such as hypertension.

A two week study found that extract of French maritime pine bark (pycnogenol) supported the ability of blood vessels to appropriately dilate for adequate blood supply. However, placebo used in the study did not affect vasodilation.

The researchers concluded that pycnogenol would be useful in treating diseases involving endothelial dysfunction.

Researchers: K. Nishioka, T. Hidaka, et al
Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans, Hypertension Research, September, 2007.