Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark)
Standardised pine bark extract with RCT signal for chronic venous insufficiency, microcirculation and mild hypertension.
Why
Pycnogenol is a standardised extract of French maritime pine bark (Pinus pinaster) containing oligomeric procyanidins, catechins and phenolic acids. RCTs and a Cochrane review report effects on chronic venous insufficiency oedema comparable to horse chestnut. A separate body of work documents reductions in retinal microcirculation impairment in diabetes and mild blood pressure reductions. Travel-related oedema and post-thrombotic syndrome have additional small RCT signal.
How it works
Procyanidins and catechins improve endothelial nitric oxide production, reduce platelet aggregation, and protect microvascular permeability. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the vascular wall.
Expected onset · Vascular effects emerge over 4–8 weeks; BP effects over 8–12 weeks
How to take
Dosage
100–300 mg/day divided. Most CVI trials use 150–300 mg/day; blood pressure trials use 100–200 mg/day.
Timing
Divided morning and evening with food
On the label
Look specifically for 'Pycnogenol' (trademarked French maritime pine bark extract). Other 'pine bark extracts' are not equivalent to the standardised material used in trials.
Ideal for
Adults with chronic venous insufficiency, microvascular complaints, or seeking modest blood pressure support.
Safety
Evidence
Cochrane 2012 SR on Pycnogenol for chronic disorders found generally positive signal across CVI, asthma and ADHD but flagged trial quality and selective reporting concerns. Cesarone 2010 Angiology RCT (n=86 CVI): Pycnogenol 100 mg three times daily improved oedema, heaviness and ankle circumference vs placebo at 8 weeks. Effect size moderate; brand-specific evidence (other pine bark extracts not equivalent).
Where to get it
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