Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol is a patented herbal supplement by the same name with the ability to treat a variety of disorders such as: Asthma, Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) with enough scientific evidence to support the possibility. Other diseases that can be treated with the help of this medicine are: ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), muscular pains, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, gingival bleeding, high blood pressure, high cholesterol etc. Though claims have been made with this regard treatment of such disorders are not supported with scientific evidence as in case of Asthma and CVI.

Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract found in the French maritime pine and exclusively grown in southwest France. The marketed supplement comprises of genetically programmed non varying proportions of: bioflavonoids, procyanidins and organic acids. The inherent properties of this natural extract claim to be an effective antioxidant, powerful anti-inflammatory drug and helps vasodilate blood vessels (a process by which blood vessels become wider). Vasodilation also helps reduce blood pressure as it induces improved blood flow.

Since its inception the safety of the product has been studied in over 190 articles and scientific trials to prove the efficacy of the drug.

Most studies indicate the absence of toxic substances and ensure efficacy of the product with regard to having beneficial results in treating disorders such as diabetes, inflammation, asthma, allergies and cardio vascular disorders.

The drug is available in tablets and capsule form. The dosage of Pycnogenol ranges from 25 mg to 200 mg daily. Precautions to be taken when consuming this medicine indicate pregnant and nursing mother must avoid intake of Pcynogenol supplements. Pycnogenol is absorbed in the blood stream in a short period ranging from 15-20 minutes. The effects of the medicine are expected to last for the next 72 hours until it excretes through urine. Pycnogenol is not a substitute for vitamin supplements and one should not discontinue intake of vitamin supplements if considering intake of Pycnogenol supplements.

Intake of Pycnogenol may cause a minor stomach ache or uneasiness due to its astringent taste. It is therefore suggested to consider consuming Pycnogenol along with meals or post meals. The patented drug ‘Pycnogenol’ claims to be included in a considerable number of cosmetic products, functional foods, beverages and vitamin and dietary supplements.

It is important to note that the U.S FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate herbs and supplements. The purity and safety of product is therefore at consumer’s risk. Additional care should be rendered incase you have a medical condition as intake of such supplements may have varying effects. Consulting a medical practitioner with regard to intake of such supplements is recommended.

Submitted on February 24, 2009