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What is Pine Bark Extract?

Pine Bark Extract, another name for proanthocyanidin, is a bioflavanoid complex extracted from the bark of Pinus Massoniana Lamb. It is a powerful antioxidant, and is being studied as a treatment for disorders caused by free radicals, including Alzheimers, cancer, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and senility. Antioxidants play a crucial role in repairing and protecting cells in the body. They help shield against free radicals, which are harmful byproducts of metabolism and exposure to environmental pollutants. Free radical damage is believed to contribute to aging, as well as to severe conditions including heart disease and cancer. Popular antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and the mineral selenium. Researchers have termed the group of antioxidants found in pine bark extract oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or simply OPCs. OPCs (also referred to as PCOs) are some of the most potent antioxidants available.

OPCs are available in many common foods and they are at the center of what has been dubbed the French paradox. The French paradox pertains to the fact that the French eat as much cholesterol as Americans, yet have a significantly lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. Researchers report that one of the main causes for this paradox is the French consumption of red wine with meals. Red wine is abundant in bioflavonoids, including OPCs, which have been demonstrated to protect blood vessels from cholesterol. Another OPC supplement on the market besides pine bark extract is grape seed extract, one of the cheapest and most widely used source of OPCs today.

Much research has been focused and done on OPCs and on pine bark extract. In France, pine bark extract and OPCs have gone through the most rigorous testing to ensure safety and effectiveness, which is why it earned its place as a registered drug. Pine bark extract has been confirmed to have a powerful antioxidant that keeps cells from damage caused by free radicals at the same time increasing the effectiveness of vitamin C. Pine bark extract has been clinically demonstrated to help lower cholesterol, and to lower the risk and severity of atherosclerosis, or damage to the arteries. It has been shown to help strengthen and repair tissues made of collagen, a protein that builds blood vessels, skin, and connective tissue. The OPCs in pine bark extract have also been shown to help treat swelling and inflammation in the body.

Pine Bark Extract-based products should not be confused with products containing Grape Seed Extract (GSE). Although both Pine Bark Extract and GSE both contain the antioxidant proanthocyanidin [also called Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPC) and Procyanidolic Oligomers (PCO)], they are two distinct, chemically different substances. Pine Bark Extract has been shown to be a more effective antioxidant than either vitamin C or vitamin E, because absorption in the bloodstream only takes 20 minutes and works for up to 72 hours. It also works synergistically with vitamin C to assist the body in recycling vitamin E, and is one the select antioxidants that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier to help protect brain tissue. Because Pine Bark Extract is such an effective free-radical neutralizer, it is thought to help regenerate systems that generally break down with age, thus improving immune resistance, vision, brain function, and skin elasticity. It may also shield cellular DNA from the oxidative damage and cell mutations that can cause cancer.

There is strong evidence that Pine Bark Extract can improve the circulatory system by helping to strengthen capillaries and veins. Improved circulation helps fight both cardiovascular disease and Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), a circulatory disorder characterized by itching skin, swelling, ulcers, edema, and varicose veins. In addition, Pine Bark Extract keeps blood platelets from sticking together and forming hazardous blood clots. Some studies have shown that Pine Bark Extract eases allergic or inflammatory symptoms by inhibiting the release and synthesis of certain compounds that promote inflammation, such as histamine, serine protease, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. Pine Bark Extract may also help heal stress-related ulcers by reducing histamine secretion and by binding to and protecting connective tissue in mucous membranes.

What is Pine Bark Extract used for and who uses it?

Pine Bark Extract, more popularly known as Pycnogenol, is used in chronic venous deficiency, allergies, asthma, hypertension, muscle soreness, pain, osteoarthritis, diabetes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, dysmenorrhea, erectile dysfunction, and retinopathy. It is also utilized preventing stroke, cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease and varicose veins, as well as in slowing the aging process, maintaining skin health, and improving athletic endurance and sperm morphology.

Pine Bark Extract is highly valued for its high levels of Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs), extremely potent antioxidants that can scavenge free radicals from the human body. Recent clinical studies and research have shown numerous health benefits from the supplementation of Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins that may include protective effects from environmental stresses such as cigarette smoking, pollution, and as well as enhancing normal metabolic health processes. Additional benefits include reducing blood fat and lowering blood pressure, reduction of blood vessel scleroses, lowering blood viscidity, and acting as an anti-thrombosis agent. Research also suggests that Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins may also offer anti-mutagenic benefits and can help avert or reduce chromosomal mutation. Pine Bark also appears to recycle ascorbyl and tocopheryl radicals, thus helping to preserve healthy vitamin C and E levels.

Some research suggests that Pine Bark might be useful in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. In studies and in vitro, pycnogenol prevents oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and shields DNA from harmful effects of free radicals, as well as preventing free-radical induced endothelial damage in vitro. Preliminary evidence suggests that Pine Bark might stimulate the immune system. It seems to stimulate and bolster natural killer cell activity and enhances T- and B-cell function in animal subjects. Pine Bark might have some activity in Alzheimer's disease as well. In vitro, pycnogenol protects animal brain cells from the toxic and damaging effects of high amounts of glutamate, and also from the debilitating effects of amyloid-beta-protein, which is found in the plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. There is a developing interest in using Pine Bark to prevent obesity. In vitro, Pine Bark appears to inhibit insulin-induced lipogenesis and may stimulate lipolysis.

How pure is your Pine Bark Extract?

This food grade pure bulk powder Pine Bark Extract is assayed by the manufacturer to be 90%+ Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPC). You will receive a sealed and labeled heavy duty 4 mil polyethylene bag containing this reddish-brown powdered extract. It contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents.

Antioxidants work in many ways to lessen or keep the effects of free radicals at bay. They can significantly minimize the damage caused by free radicals, stop them from forming to begin with, or "oxidize" them by combining with them thus neutralizing their harmful effects through stabilization. To ensure all the bases in neutralizing free radicals are covered, supplement with a wide variety of antioxidants. Antioxidants have excellent preventative ability and can add youth, health, and strength to your body. However, it is difficult if not impossible to get the amount of OPC needed for antioxidant protection from dietary sources alone. Since it‘s impracticable to try and consume enough OPC from your daily or regular diet, supplementation is generally recommended.

What is the difference between Pine Bark Extract and Pycnogenol™?

Pycnogenol™ is a trademarked name brand product owned by a Japanese corporation. As such, you get a trade marked name brand product with all the marketing hype and advertising and retail packaging and four color glossy brochures that go with it. But if you just want the active ingredient in Pycnogenol™ you can certainly buy any number of generic OPC supplement powders including Grape Seed Extract or Pine Bark Extract. Pycnogenol™ and generic Pine Bark Extract are typically standardized for a 90% OPC extraction percentage.

As a bulk powder Grape Seed Extract or Pine Bark extract appear almost identical. They are the same color, they have the same taste and smell, and the feel the same. You'd be hard pressed to tell the difference. Why? Because after extracting the OPCs to a high concentration that's about all you have left such that the OPCs from each are almost identical. But consider that both are extremely bitter tasting and you may want to encapsulate your OPC powder for daily dosing purposes. Typically you can fit about 500mg of either one in a (00) double ought capsule and this makes a very good daily or every other day dose. Because the OPCs have a 72 hour half-life you don't necessarily need to take them every day. You can take them every other day if you want.

What is the daily suggested dose of Pine Bark Extract?

Recommended doses for Pine Bark Extract (90%+ Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins, or OPC) range from 100-600mg per day, depending upon individual needs. While some researchers suggest that daily doses higher than 500mg should not taken without the direct care and supervision of licensed physician or health practice professional, most researchers believe that Pine Bark Extract is safe and effective in doses as high as 1 gram or more per day. For adults weighing between 150 and 200 pounds (68 to 90 kilograms) a reasonably effective dose for Pine Bark Extract might involve taking a level 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 355 milligrams) dose once or twice per day. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Pine Bark Extract here.

As always, if you have concerns or questions, consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements. Before taking any kind of medicine, check with your doctor to ensure that the supplement you want to take is right for you. You may be allergic or you may have a sensitive stomach which may raise the need for special instruction as far as dosage goes.

What kind of results do people anticipate while taking Pine Bark Extract?

Pine Bark Extract has been dubbed as the most potent, natural anti-oxidant ever discovered. It is 50 times more potent than Vitamin E and 20 times more potent than Vitamin C in terms of anti-oxidant activity. It has been used for attention deficit disorder, allergies, Alzheimer's, atherosclerosis, arthritis, asthma, depression, fibromyalgia, heart disease, hemorrhoids, lupus, macular degeneration, manic depression, PMS, phlebitis, ulcers, and varicose veins. It helps prevent the release of histamines and thus reduces allergy symptoms. Aside from supporting the circulatory system, it gives your skin and tissues more elasticity and strength (less wrinkles) by preventing breakdown of collagen. Pine Bark Extract reduces prostate inflammation, and strengthens capillaries, arteries, veins and blood vessel walls.

Precautions and Potential Side Effects of Pine Bark Extract

While pine bark extract is used in the nutritional treatment of many conditions, it is not meant to replace proper medical supervision. Pine bark extract has been extensively tested for safety, and no dangerous side effects have been observed with its use. The effectiveness of pine bark extract may be increased with the use of other antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, and the mineral selenium. Diets rich in foods that contain antioxidants and bioflavonoids, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, may also contribute to its effectiveness.

Pine Bark Extract is believed to have few if any side effects when taken in doses up to 600mg per day. However, nausea is occasionally reported at doses above 400 milligrams in a single dose. If you experience nausea when taking Pine Bark Extract reduce your dose. If nausea persists at lower doses discontinue and consult your physician before resuming this supplement.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Suggested preparation of Pine Bark Extract

Pine bark extract is available in health food stores as powder and capsules. For prevention and general health, a daily dosage of 50 mg is recommended. For treatment of health conditions, the dosage may be increased to 300 mg or more, depending on the advice of a physician and the specific condition. Pine bark extract can be taken either with or between meals.

Pine Bark Extract seems to work best when used in conjunction with other antioxidants and minerals. When combined with vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A (beta carotene), and minerals zinc, selenium, and manganese with the addition of CoEnzyme Q10, the pine bark extract in Pine Bark Extract has been shown to reduce the effects of free radical damage associated with acute and chronic inflammations, senility, poor circulation, nervous disorders, and immune system suppression. Studies indicate that Pine Bark Extract may be useful in treating or preventing a host of illnesses and disorders, including ADD/ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, asthma, fibromyalgia, cellulite, diabetic retinopathy and neuropathy, lung cancer, premenstrual syndrome, macular degeneration, myocardial ischemia, skin disorders, phlebitis, poor night vision, pelvic pain, prostate disease, cellulite, atherosclerosis, autoimmune disorders, strokes, and high blood pressure.

Pine Bark Extract is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

Twinlab Pycnogenol, NOW Enzogenol, Nature's Way Pycnogenol Pine Bark Extract, NSI Pine Bark Extract 95% OPC, Source Naturals Opc-85 Pine Bark Extract, Swanson Superior Herbs Pine Bark Extract, OPC-85 Pine Bark Extract, Grapeseed, Green Tea & Pine Bark Complex, Planetary Herbals Full Spectrum Pine Bark Extract, Natrol Pine Bark Extract, Now Foods Pine Bark Extract

References & Further Research

Pycnogenol Improves Microcirculation, Retinal Edema and Visual Acuity in Early Diabetic Retinopathy
The growing numbers of diabetes cases in the developed world are followed by increasing numbers of people diagnosed with diabetic complications. Diabetic microangiopathies in the eye lead to the development of retinopathy involving gradual loss of vision. Previous studies with Pycnogenol showed effectiveness for stopping progression of preproliferative stages of retinopathy. The aim of our study was to show protective effects of Pycnogenol in early stages of retinopathy, characterized by mild to moderate retinal edema in the absence of hemorrhages or hard exudates in the macula center. The major positive observation of this study is the visual improvement, which was subjectively perceived by 18 out of 24 patients in the Pycnogenol group. Testing of visual acuity using the Snellen chart showed a significant improvement from baseline 14/20 to 17/20 already, after 2 months treatment, whereas no change was found in the control group. Pycnogenol taken at this early stage of retinopathy may enhance retinal blood circulation accompanied by regression of edema, which favorably improves vision of patients.

Inhibitory effect of pine extract on alpha-glucosidase activity and postprandial hyperglycemia
This study investigated the inhibitory effect of pine bark extract and needle extract on carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes and the hypoglycemic effect in diabetic mice. The pine bark extract showed competitive inhibition against salivary alpha-amylase and the combination of non-competitive and uncompetitive inhibition against yeast alpha-glucosidase. In animal experiments, pine bark extract effectively suppressed the increase of postprandial blood glucose level by delaying absorption of diet, and body weights of the group that received pine bark extract were significantly lower than that in the control group. Overall data suggests pine bark extract can be used to suppress postprandial hyperglycemia of diabetic patients. It also can be applied for control of obesity by decreasing the food efficiency ratio, especially carbohydrates.

Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves endothelial function of hypertensive patients
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group study was performed with 58 patients to investigate effects of French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol, on patients with hypertension. Supplementation of the patients with 100 mg pine bark extract over a period of 12 weeks helped to reduce the dose of the calcium antagonist nifedipine in a statistically significant manner. Study results support a supplementation with pine bark extract for mildly hypertensive patients.

Pine Bark Extract for International Customers

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Buying Pine Bark Extract Bulk or Wholesale

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