Medicinal Properties of Pine Bark

Studies into pine bark extract were inspired by the story of Jaques Cartier and crew. They were ice-bound in Quebec during the winter of 1535, and many would have died of scurvy if not for a native American who showed them how to brew tea from tree bark. The extract contains naturally occurring chemicals called proanthocyanidins. The American Cancer Society believes these are high in antioxidants, neutralizers of disease causing free radicals.

Hypertension

• According to Gianni Belcaro, lead researcher of a 2010 study in Italy, pine bark extract pygenol not only reduces blood pressure but decreases damage to kidneys caused by hypertension. It helps protect against hardening of the arteries which, if left unchecked, can lead to raised blood pressure. Further effects on circulation include the lowering of the "bad" LDL-cholesterol and raising the "good" HDL-cholesterol. It reduces ankle swelling, cramps and muscular pain, and strengthens weak capillaries.

Osteoarthritis

• In a 2008 study led by Belcaro, the effectiveness of using pine bark extract to ease osteoarthritis was shown to permit users to decrease their use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It appears to reduce inflammation, pain and stiffness in the joints and increases flexibility.

Healthy brain function

• Pine park extract improves circulation and increases nitric oxide to the brain, which enhances memory and clear thinking. The Herbal Powers website also discusses how the bioflavonoids in pine bark extract helps Vitamin C synthesize neurotransmitters. This allows serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine act more effectively to support healthy brain functions.

Skin health

• Skin aging is caused by oxidation damage. The antioxidants in pine bark extract counteract this and the bioflavinoids block elastase, an enzyme involved in the aging process. Pine bark acts to protect collagen, the protein involved in maintenance of skin, from free radical attack. The effects of visible skin aging are consequently much slower as a result of pine bark extract supplementation.

Eye Health

• Retinopathy, the slow break down of the retina, is a common symptom for sufferers of diabetes or arterioslerosis. The Herbal Powers website discusses a 2009 study conducted by Robert Steigerwalt that shows patients who took pine bark extract improved their visual performance.