Pine Bark Extract Benefits

Some claim that pine bark extract is a wonder drug and provides the remedy for countless disorders. While anecdotal support is high, true scientific evidence about its benefits is limited.

Names

• Pine bark extract is derived from maritime pines (Pinus maritime or Pinus pinaster), native to the western Mediterranean. It is also known as procyanidin oligomers, Procyanidolic Oligomers, PCO and PCOs; its brand name, Pycnogenol, is a registered trademark.

Pine Bark as an Antioxidant

• Some proponents believe pine bark is one of the most powerful antioxidants available and that it is highly effective at blocking the action of free radicals, thus providing protection from cancer, heart disease and arthritis.

Other Uses

• Pine bark is also purported to be beneficial for lowering blood pressure, reducing various inflammations, improving blood flow and circulation, and alleviating erectile dysfunction and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Evidence

• While animal studies have shown that pine bark has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and exhibits an immunostimulant effect, human studies have been very small. According to the American Cancer Society in 2008, "There are not enough data from clinical trials to support most of the health claims made for any form of pine bark extract, although interest in proanthocyanidins among medical researchers is growing."

Side Effects and Warnings

• Although pine bark is reported to be safe, some people report mild headache, nausea and upset stomach. Additionally, it may interfere with chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy.