Pycnogenol: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions (2024)

Ahn, J., Grun, I. U., and Mustapha, A. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of natural extracts in vitro and in ground beef. J Food Prot. 2004;67(1):148-155. View abstract.

Ahn, J., Grun, I. U., and Mustapha, A. Effects of plant extracts on microbial growth, color change, and lipid oxidation in cooked beef. Food Microbiol. 2007;24(1):7-14. View abstract.

Aoki, H., Nagao, J., Ueda, T., Strong, J. M., Schonlau, F., Yu-Jing, S., Lu, Y., and Horie, S. Clinical assessment of a supplement of Pycnogenol(R) and L-arginine in Japanese patients with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. Phytother.Res. 2012;26(2):204-207. View abstract.

Araghi-Niknam, M., Hosseini, S., Larson, D., Rohdewald, P., and Watson, R. R. Pine bark extract reduces platelet aggregation. Integr.Med. 3-21-2000;2(2):73-77. View abstract.

Asset, G., Bauge, E., Wolff, R. L., Fruchart, J. C., and Dallongeville, J. Comparison of maritime pine oil and fish oil effects on plasma lipoproteins in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent.Fatty Acids 2000;62(5):307-310. View abstract.

Asset, G., Bauge, E., Wolff, R. L., Fruchart, J. C., and Dallongeville, J. Pinus pinaster oil affects lipoprotein metabolism in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. J Nutr 1999;129(11):1972-1978. View abstract.

Baumann, L. How to prevent photoaging? J Invest Dermatol. 2005;125(4):xii-xiii. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Dugall, M., Hosoi, M., Ippolito, E., Bavera, P., and Grossi, M. G. Investigation of Pycnogenol(R) in combination with coenzymeQ10 in heart failure patients (NYHA II/III). Panminerva Med 2010;52(2 Suppl 1):21-25. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, B. M., Ledda, A., Di Renzo, A., Stuard, S., Dugall, M., Pellegrini, L., Rohdewald, P., Ippolito, E., Ricci, A., Cacchio, M., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., and Hosoi, M. Venous ulcers: microcirculatory improvement and faster healing with local use of Pycnogenol. Angiology 2005;56(6):699-705. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, B. M., Ledda, A., Di, Renzo A., Stuard, S., Dugall, M., Pellegrini, L., Gizzi, G., Rohdewald, P., Ippolito, E., Ricci, A., Cacchio, M., Cipollone, G., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., and Hosoi, M. Diabetic ulcers: microcirculatory improvement and faster healing with pycnogenol. Clin.Appl.Thromb.Hemost. 2006;12(3):318-323. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, B., Di, Renzo A., Grossi, M. G., Ricci, A., Dugall, M., Cornelli, U., Cacchio, M., and Rohdewald, P. Pycnogenol treatment of acute hemorrhoidal episodes. Phytother.Res. 2010;24(3):438-444. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, S., Zulli, C., Errichi, B. M., Vinciguerra, G., Ledda, A., Di Renzo, A., Stuard, S., Dugall, M., Pellegrini, L., Errichi, S., Gizzi, G., Ippolito, E., Ricci, A., Cacchio, M., Cipollone, G., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., Hosoi, M., and Rohdewald, P. Treatment of osteoarthritis with Pycnogenol. The SVOS (San Valentino Osteo-arthrosis Study). Evaluation of signs, symptoms, physical performance and vascular aspects. Phytother.Res. 2008;22(4):518-523. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, S., Zulli, C., Errichi, B. M., Vinciguerra, G., Ledda, A., Di Renzo, A., Stuard, S., Dugall, M., Pellegrini, L., Gizzi, G., Ippolito, E., Ricci, A., Cacchio, M., Cipollone, G., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., Hosoi, M., and Rohdewald, P. Variations in C-reactive protein, plasma free radicals and fibrinogen values in patients with osteoarthritis treated with Pycnogenol. Redox.Rep. 2008;13(6):271-276. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Rohdewald, P., Ricci, A., Ippolito, E., Dugall, M., Griffin, M., Ruffini, I., Acerbi, G., Vinciguerra, M. G., Bavera, P., Di Renzo, A., Errichi, B. M., and Cerritelli, F. Prevention of venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis in long-haul flights with pycnogenol. Clin Appl.Thromb.Hemost. 2004;10(4):373-377. View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M., Silvia, E., Ledda, A., Stuard, S., G V, Dougall, M., Cornelli, U., Hastings, C., and Schonlau, F. Daily consumption of Reliv Glucaffect for 8 weeks significantly lowered blood glucose and body weight in 50 subjects. Phytother.Res. 4-29-2009; View abstract.

Belcaro, G., Luzzi, R., Cesinaro Di, Rocco P., Cesarone, M. R., Dugall, M., Feragalli, B., Errichi, B. M., Ippolito, E., Grossi, M. G., Hosoi, M., Errichi, S., Cornelli, U., Ledda, A., and Gizzi, G. Pycnogenol(R) improvements in asthma management. Panminerva Med. 2011;53(3 Suppl 1):57-64. View abstract.

Berryman, A. M., Maritim, A. C., Sanders, R. A., and Watkins, J. B., III. Influence of treatment of diabetic rats with combinations of pycnogenol, beta-carotene, and alpha-lipoic acid on parameters of oxidative stress. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2004;18(6):345-352. View abstract.

Bors, W., Michel, C., and Stettmaier, K. Electron paramagnetic resonance studies of radical species of proanthocyanidins and gallate esters. Arch Biochem Biophys. 2-15-2000;374(2):347-355. View abstract.

Buz'Zard, A. R., Peng, Q., and Lau, B. H. Kyolic and Pycnogenol increase human growth hormone secretion in genetically-engineered keratinocytes. Growth Horm.IGF.Res. 2002;12(1):34-40. View abstract.

Cesarone, M. R., Belcaro, G., Rohdewald, P., Pellegrini, L., Ippolito, E., Scoccianti, M., Ricci, A., Dugall, M., Cacchio, M., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., Acerbi, G., Vinciguerra, M. G., Bavera, P., Di Renzo, A., Errichi, B. M., and Mucci, F. Prevention of edema in long flights with Pycnogenol. Clin Appl.Thromb.Hemost. 2005;11(3):289-294. View abstract.

Cesarone, M. R., Belcaro, G., Rohdewald, P., Pellegrini, L., Ledda, A., Vinciguerra, G., Ricci, A., Gizzi, G., Ippolito, E., Fano, F., Dugall, M., Acerbi, G., Cacchio, M., Di Renzo, A., Hosoi, M., Stuard, S., and Corsi, M. Comparison of Pycnogenol and Daflon in treating chronic venous insufficiency: a prospective, controlled study. Clin Appl Thromb.Hemost. 2006;12(2):205-212. View abstract.

Cesarone, M. R., Belcaro, G., Rohdewald, P., Pellegrini, L., Ledda, A., Vinciguerra, G., Ricci, A., Gizzi, G., Ippolito, E., Fano, F., Dugall, M., Acerbi, G., Cacchio, M., Di Renzo, A., Hosoi, M., Stuard, S., and Corsi, M. Rapid relief of signs/symptoms in chronic venous microangiopathy with pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study. Angiology 2006;57(5):569-576. View abstract.

Cesarone, M. R., Belcaro, G., Rohdewald, P., Pellegrini, L., Ledda, A., Vinciguerra, G., Ricci, A., Ippolito, E., Fano, F., Dugall, M., Cacchio, M., Di, Renzo A., Hosoi, M., Stuard, S., and Corsi, M. Improvement of signs and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and microangiopathy with Pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(11):835-839. View abstract.

Cesarone, M. R., Belcaro, G., Stuard, S., Schonlau, F., Di, Renzo A., Grossi, M. G., Dugall, M., Cornelli, U., Cacchio, M., Gizzi, G., and Pellegrini, L. Kidney flow and function in hypertension: protective effects of pycnogenol in hypertensive participants--a controlled study. J.Cardiovasc.Pharmacol.Ther. 2010;15(1):41-46. View abstract.

Chayasirisobhon, S. Use of a pine bark extract and antioxidant vitamin combination product as therapy for migraine in patients refractory to pharmacologic medication. Headache 2006;46(5):788-793. View abstract.

Cho, K. J., Yun, C. H., Packer, L., and Chung, A. S. Inhibition mechanisms of bioflavonoids extracted from the bark of Pinus maritima on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2001;928:141-156. View abstract.

Cho, K. J., Yun, C. H., Yoon, D. Y., Cho, Y. S., Rimbach, G., Packer, L., and Chung, A. S. Effect of bioflavonoids extracted from the bark of Pinus maritima on proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7. Toxicol Appl.Pharmacol 10-1-2000;168(1):64-71. View abstract.

Chovanova, Z., Muchova, J., Sivonova, M., Dvorakova, M., Zitnanova, I., Waczulikova, I., Trebaticka, J., Skodacek, I., and Durackova, Z. Effect of polyphenolic extract, Pycnogenol, on the level of 8-oxoguanine in children suffering from attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Free Radic.Res 2006;40(9):1003-1010. View abstract.

Cisar, P., Jany, R., Waczulikova, I., Sumegova, K., Muchova, J., Vojtassak, J., Durackova, Z., Lisy, M., and Rohdewald, P. Effect of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Phytother.Res. 2008;22(8):1087-1092. View abstract.

Clark, C. E., Arnold, E., Lasserson, T. J., and Wu, T. Herbal interventions for chronic asthma in adults and children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Prim.Care Respir.J 2010;19(4):307-314. View abstract.

Dene, B. A., Maritim, A. C., Sanders, R. A., and Watkins, J. B., III. Effects of antioxidant treatment on normal and diabetic rat retinal enzyme activities. J Ocul.Pharmacol Ther 2005;21(1):28-35. View abstract.

Devaraj, S., Vega-Lopez, S., Kaul, N., Schonlau, F., Rohdewald, P., and Jialal, I. Supplementation with a pine bark extract rich in polyphenols increases plasma antioxidant capacity and alters the plasma lipoprotein profile. Lipids 2002;37(10):931-934. View abstract.

Drieling, R. L., Gardner, C. D., Ma, J., Ahn, D. K., and Stafford, R. S. No beneficial effects of pine bark extract on cardiovascular disease risk factors. Arch.Intern.Med. 9-27-2010;170(17):1541-1547. View abstract.

Durackova, B. Trebatický V. Novotný I. Žit®anová J. Breza. Lipid metabolism and erectile function improvement by Pycnogenol®, extract from the bark of Pinus pinaster in patients suffering from erectile dysfunction - a pilot study. Nutrition Research 2003;23(9):1189-1198.

Durackova, Z., Trebaticky, B., Novotny, V., Zitnanova, A., and Breza, J. Lipid metabolism and erectile dysfunction improvement by Pycnogenol(R), extract from the bark of Pinus pinaster in patients suffering from erectile dysfunction -- a pilot study. Nutr.Res. 2003;23:1189-1198.

Dvorakova, M., Jezova, D., Blazicek, P., Trebaticka, J., Skodacek, I., Suba, J., Iveta, W., Rohdewald, P., and Durackova, Z. Urinary catecholamines in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): modulation by a polyphenolic extract from pine bark (pycnogenol). Nutr.Neurosci. 2007;10(3-4):151-157. View abstract.

Dvorakova, M., Paduchova, Z., Muchova, J., Durackova, Z., and Collins, A. R. How does pycnogenol(R) influence oxidative damage to DNA and its repair ability in elderly people? Prague.Med.Rep. 2010;111(4):263-271. View abstract.

Dvorakova, M., Sivonova, M., Trebaticka, J., Skodacek, I., Waczulikova, I., Muchova, J., and Durackova, Z. The effect of polyphenolic extract from pine bark, Pycnogenol on the level of glutathione in children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Redox.Rep. 2006;11(4):163-172. View abstract.

Enseleit, F., Sudano, I., Periat, D., Winnik, S., Wolfrum, M., Flammer, A. J., Frohlich, G. M., Kaiser, P., Hirt, A., Haile, S. R., Krasniqi, N., Matter, C. M., Uhlenhut, K., Hogger, P., Neidhart, M., Luscher, T. F., Ruschitzka, F., and Noll, G. Effects of Pycnogenol on endothelial function in patients with stable coronary artery disease: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. Eur.Heart J. 2012;33(13):1589-1597. View abstract.

Errichi, B. M., Belcaro, G., Hosoi, M., Cesarone, M. R., Dugall, M., Feragalli, B., Bavera, P., Hosoi, M., Zulli, C., Corsi, M., Ledda, A., Luzzi, R., and Ricci, A. Prevention of post thrombotic syndrome with Pycnogenol(R) in a twelve month study. Panminerva Med. 2011;53(3 Suppl 1):21-27. View abstract.

Errichi, S., Bottari, A., Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Hosoi, M., Cornelli, U., Dugall, M., Ledda, A., and Feragalli, B. Supplementation with Pycnogenol(R) improves signs and symptoms of menopausal transition. Panminerva Med. 2011;53(3 Suppl 1):65-70. View abstract.

Ferri, C. and Grassi, D. Antioxidants and beneficial microvascular effects: is this the remedy? Hypertension 2010;55(6):1310-1311. View abstract.

Furumura, M., Sato, N., Kusaba, N., Takagaki, K., and Nakayama, J. Oral administration of French maritime pine bark extract (Flavangenol((R))) improves clinical symptoms in photoaged facial skin. Clin.Interv.Aging 2012;7:275-286. View abstract.

Golanski, J., Muchova, J., Golanski, R., Durackova, Z., Markuszewski, L., and Watala, C. Does pycnogenol intensify the efficacy of acetylsalicylic acid in the inhibition of platelet function? In vitro experience. Postepy Hig.Med Dosw.(Online.) 2006;60:316-321. View abstract.

Grimm, T., Chovanova, Z., Muchova, J., Sumegova, K., Liptakova, A., Durackova, Z., and Hogger, P. Inhibition of NF-kappaB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol). J Inflamm.(Lond) 2006;3:1. View abstract.

Grimm, T., Schafer, A., and Hogger, P. Antioxidant activity and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases by metabolites of maritime pine bark extract (pycnogenol). Free Radic.Biol Med 3-15-2004;36(6):811-822. View abstract.

Grimm, T., Skrabala, R., Chovanova, Z., Muchova, J., Sumegova, K., Liptakova, A., Durackova, Z., and Hogger, P. Single and multiple dose pharmaco*kinetics of maritime pine bark extract (pycnogenol) after oral administration to healthy volunteers. BMC.Clin Pharmacol 2006;6:4. View abstract.

Grossi, M. G., Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Dugall, M., Hosoi, M., Cacchio, M., Ippolito, E., and Bavera, P. Improvement in cochlear flow with Pycnogenol(R) in patients with tinnitus: a pilot evaluation. Panminerva Med. 2010;52(2 Suppl 1):63-67. View abstract.

Hasegawa, N. Stimulation of lipolysis by pycnogenol. Phytother Res 1999;13(7):619-620. View abstract.

Henrotin, Y., Lambert, C., Couchourel, D., Ripoll, C., and Chiotelli, E. Nutraceuticals: do they represent a new era in the management of osteoarthritis? - a narrative review from the lessons taken with five products. Osteoarthritis.Cartilage. 2011;19(1):1-21. View abstract.

Horakova, L., Licht, A., Sandig, G., Jakstadt, M., Durackova, Z., and Grune, T. Standardized extracts of flavonoids increase the viability of PC12 cells treated with hydrogen peroxide: effects on oxidative injury. Arch Toxicol 2003;77(1):22-29. View abstract.

Hosseini S, Pishnamazi S Sadrzadeh SMH Farid F Farid R Watson RR. Pycnogenol in the management of asthma. J Medicinal Food 2001;4(4):201-209.

Hosseini, S., Lee, J., Sepulveda, R. T., fa*gan, T., Rohdewald, P., and Watson, R. R. A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, prospective 16 week crossover study to determine the role of Pycnogenol(R) in modifying blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. Nutr.Res. 2001;21(9):67-76.

Hosseini, S., Pishnamazi, S., Sadrzadeh, S. M., Farid, F., Farid, R., and Watson, R. R. Pycnogenol((R)) in the Management of Asthma. J Med Food 2001;4(4):201-209. View abstract.

Huang, W. W., Yang, J. S., Lin, C. F., Ho, W. J., and Lee, M. R. Pycnogenol induces differentiation and apoptosis in human promyeloid leukemia HL-60 cells. Leuk.Res 2005;29(6):685-692. View abstract.

Huynh, H. T. and Teel, R. W. Effects of intragastrically administered Pycnogenol on NNK metabolism in F344 rats. Anticancer Res 1999;19(3A):2095-2099. View abstract.

Huynh, H. T. and Teel, R. W. Effects of pycnogenol on the microsomal metabolism of the tobacco-specific nitrosamine NNK as a function of age. Cancer Lett 10-23-1998;132(1-2):135-139. View abstract.

Huynh, H. T. and Teel, R. W. Selective induction of apoptosis in human mammary cancer cells (MCF-7) by pycnogenol. Anticancer Res 2000;20(4):2417-2420. View abstract.

Jialal I, Devaraj S Hirany S et al. The effect of pycnogenol supplementation on markers of inflammation. Alternative Therapies 2001;7:S17.

Kim, H. C. and Healey, J. M. Effects of pine bark extract administered to immunosuppressed adult mice infected with Cryptosporidium parvum. Am J Chin Med 2001;29(3-4):469-475. View abstract.

Kim, J., Chehade, J., Pinnas, J. L., and Mooradian, A. D. Effect of select antioxidants on malondialdehyde modification of proteins. Nutrition 2000;16(11-12):1079-1081. View abstract.

Kim, Y. G. and Park, H. Y. The effects of Pycnogenol on DNA damage in vitro and expression of superoxide dismutase and HP1 in Escherichia coli SOD and catalase deficient mutant cells. Phytother.Res 2004;18(11):900-905. View abstract.

Kimbrough, C., Chun, M., dela, Roca G., and Lau, B. H. PYCNOGENOL chewing gum minimizes gingival bleeding and plaque formation. Phytomedicine 2002;9(5):410-413. View abstract.

Kobayashi, M. S., Han, D., and Packer, L. Antioxidants and herbal extracts protect HT-4 neuronal cells against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity. Free Radic.Res 2000;32(2):115-124. View abstract.

Kohama T, Negami M. Effect of Low-dose French Maritime Pine Bark Extract on Climacteric Syndrome in 170 Perimenopausal Women: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial. J Reproductive Med 2013;58(1):39-47.

Ledda, A., Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Dugall, M., and Schonlau, F. Investigation of a complex plant extract for mild to moderate erectile dysfunction in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm study. BJU.Int. 2010;106(7):1030-1033. View abstract.

Liu, X., Wei, J., Tan, F., Zhou, S., Wurthwein, G., and Rohdewald, P. Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves endothelial function of hypertensive patients. Life Sci 1-2-2004;74(7):855-862. View abstract.

Luzzi, R., Belcaro, G., Zulli, C., Cesarone, M. R., Cornelli, U., Dugall, M., Hosoi, M., and Feragalli, B. Pycnogenol(R) supplementation improves cognitive function, attention and mental performance in students. Panminerva Med. 2011;53(3 Suppl 1):75-82. View abstract.

Mach, J., Midgley, A. W., Dank, S., Grant, R. S., and Bentley, D. J. The effect of antioxidant supplementation on fatigue during exercise: potential role for NAD+(H). Nutrients. 2010;2(3):319-329. View abstract.

Macrides, T. A., Shihata, A., Kalafatis, N., and Wright, P. F. A comparison of the hydroxyl radical scavenging properties of the shark bile steroid 5 beta-scymnol and plant pycnogenols. Biochem Mol Biol Int 1997;42(6):1249-1260. View abstract.

Marini, A., Grether-Beck, S., Jaenicke, T., Weber, M., Burki, C., Formann, P., Brenden, H., Schonlau, F., and Krutmann, J. Pycnogenol(R) effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women. Skin Pharmacol.Physiol 2012;25(2):86-92. View abstract.

Maritim, A., Dene, B. A., Sanders, R. A., and Watkins, J. B., III. Effects of pycnogenol treatment on oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2003;17(3):193-199. View abstract.

Mochizuki, M. and Hasegawa, N. Pycnogenol stimulates lipolysis in 3t3-L1 cells via stimulation of beta-receptor mediated activity. Phytother Res 2004;18(12):1029-1030. View abstract.

Mochizuki, M. and Hasegawa, N. Therapeutic efficacy of pycnogenol in experimental inflammatory bowel diseases. Phytother Res 2004;18(12):1027-1028. View abstract.

Moini, H., Arroyo, A., Vaya, J., and Packer, L. Bioflavonoid effects on the mitochondrial respiratory electron transport chain and cytochrome c redox state. Redox.Rep 1999;4(1-2):35-41. View abstract.

Moini, H., Guo, Q., and Packe, L. Xanthine oxidase and xanthine dehydrogenase inhibition by the procyanidin-rich French maritime pine bark extract, pycnogenol: a protein binding effect. Adv.Exp Med Biol 2002;505:141-149. View abstract.

Moini, H., Guo, Q., and Packer, L. Protein binding of procyanidins: studies using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and French maritime pine bark extract. Methods Enzymol. 2001;335:333-337. View abstract.

Nelson, A. B., Lau, B. H., Ide, N., and Rong, Y. Pycnogenol inhibits macrophage oxidative burst, lipoprotein oxidation, and hydroxyl radical-induced DNA damage. Drug Dev.Ind Pharm 1998;24(2):139-144. View abstract.

Ni, Z., Mu, Y., and Gulati, O. Treatment of melasma with Pycnogenol. Phytother.Res. 2002;16(6):567-571. View abstract.

Nikolova, V., Stanislavov, R., Vatev, I., Nalbanski, B., and Punevska, M. [Sperm parameters in male idiopathic infertility after treatment with prelox]. Akush.Ginekol.(Sofiia) 2007;46(5):7-12. View abstract.

Noda, Y., Anzai, K., Mori, A., Kohno, M., Shinmei, M., and Packer, L. Hydroxyl and superoxide anion radical scavenging activities of natural source antioxidants using the computerized JES-FR30 ESR spectrometer system. Biochem Mol Biol Int 1997;42(1):35-44. View abstract.

Ohkita, M., Kiso, Y., and Matsumura, Y. Pharmacology in health foods: improvement of vascular endothelial function by French maritime pine bark extract (Flavangenol). J.Pharmacol.Sci. 2011;115(4):461-465. View abstract.

Packer, L., Rimbach, G., and Virgili, F. Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, pycnogenol. Free Radic.Biol Med 1999;27(5-6):704-724. View abstract.

Pavone, C., Abbadessa, D., Tarantino, M. L., Oxenius, I., Lagana, A., Lupo, A., and Rinella, M. [Associating Serenoa repens, Urtica dioica and Pinus pinaster. Safety and efficacy in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms. Prospective study on 320 patients]. Urologia. 2010;77(1):43-51. View abstract.

Peng, Q. L., Buz'Zard, A. R., and Lau, B. H. Pycnogenol protects neurons from amyloid-beta peptide-induced apoptosis. Brain Res Mol Brain Res 7-15-2002;104(1):55-65. View abstract.

Peng, Q., Wei, Z., and Lau, B. H. Pycnogenol inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced nuclear factor kappa B activation and adhesion molecule expression in human vascular endothelial cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2000;57(5):834-841. View abstract.

Perera, N., Liolitsa, D., Iype, S., Croxford, A., Yassin, M., Lang, P., Ukaegbu, O., and van, Issum C. Phlebotonics for haemorrhoids. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;8:CD004322. View abstract.

Reuter, J., Wolfle, U., Korting, H. C., and Schempp, C. Which plant for which skin disease? Part 2: Dermatophytes, chronic venous insufficiency, photoprotection, actinic keratoses, vitiligo, hair loss, cosmetic indications. J.Dtsch.Dermatol.Ges. 2010;8(11):866-873. View abstract.

Rimbach, G., Virgili, F., Park, Y. C., and Packer, L. Effect of procyanidins from Pinus maritima on glutathione levels in endothelial cells challenged by 3-morpholinosydnonimine or activated macrophages. Redox.Rep 1999;4(4):171-177. View abstract.

Rohdewald P. Bioavailability and metabolism of pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:5-7.

Rohdewald P. Reducing the risk for stroke and heart infarction with pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:14-18.

Rong, Y., Li, L., Shah, V., and Lau, B. H. Pycnogenol protects vascular endothelial cells from t-butyl hydroperoxide induced oxidant injury. Biotechnol Ther 1994;5(3-4):117-126. View abstract.

Roseff SJ, Gulati R. Improvement of sperm quality by pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:33-36.

Roseff, S. J. Improvement in sperm quality and function with French maritime pine tree bark extract. J Reprod Med 2002;47(10):821-824. View abstract.

Rucklidge, J. J., Johnstone, J., and Kaplan, B. J. Nutrient supplementation approaches in the treatment of ADHD. Expert.Rev.Neurother. 2009;9(4):461-476. View abstract.

Ryan, J., Croft, K., Mori, T., Wesnes, K., Spong, J., Downey, L., Kure, C., Lloyd, J., and Stough, C. An examination of the effects of the antioxidant Pycnogenol on cognitive performance, serum lipid profile, endocrinological and oxidative stress biomarkers in an elderly population. J Psychopharmacol. 2008;22(5):553-562. View abstract.

Schafer, A., Chovanova, Z., Muchova, J., Sumegova, K., Liptakova, A., Durackova, Z., and Hogger, P. Inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 activity by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol). Biomed.Pharmacother. 2006;60(1):5-9. View abstract.

Schmidtke I, Schoop W. Pycnogenol: stasis oedema and its medical treatment. Schweizerische Zeitschrift fur GanzheitsMedizin 1995;3:114-115.

Schoonees, A., Visser, J., Musekiwa, A., and Volmink, J. Pycnogenol((R)) for the treatment of chronic disorders. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;2:CD008294. View abstract.

Schoonees, A., Visser, J., Musekiwa, A., and Volmink, J. Pycnogenol(R) (extract of French maritime pine bark) for the treatment of chronic disorders. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;4:CD008294. View abstract.

Segger, D. and Schonlau, F. Supplementation with Evelle improves skin smoothness and elasticity in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 62 women. J Dermatolog.Treat. 2004;15(4):222-226. View abstract.

Sharma, S. C., Sharma, S., and Gulati, O. P. Pycnogenol inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells. Phytother Res 2003;17(1):66-69. View abstract.

Sharma, S. C., Sharma, S., and Gulati, O. P. Pycnogenol prevents haemolytic injury in G6PD deficient human erythrocytes. Phytother Res 2003;17(6):671-674. View abstract.

Siler-Marsiglio, K. I., Paiva, M., Madorsky, I., Serrano, Y., Neeley, A., and Heaton, M. B. Protective mechanisms of pycnogenol in ethanol-insulted cerebellar granule cells. J Neurobiol. 2004;61(2):267-276. View abstract.

Siler-Marsiglio, K. I., Shaw, G., and Heaton, M. B. Pycnogenol and vitamin E inhibit ethanol-induced apoptosis in rat cerebellar granule cells. J Neurobiol. 2004;59(3):261-271. View abstract.

Sime, S. and Reeve, V. E. Protection from inflammation, immunosuppression and carcinogenesis induced by UV radiation in mice by topical Pycnogenol. Photochem.Photobiol. 2004;79(2):193-198. View abstract.

Sivonova, M., Waczulikova, I., Kilanczyk, E., Hrnciarova, M., Bryszewska, M., Klajnert, B., and Durackova, Z. The effect of Pycnogenol on the erythrocyte membrane fluidity. Gen Physiol Biophys. 2004;23(1):39-51. View abstract.

Stanislavov, R., Nikolova, V., and Rohdewald, P. Improvement of seminal parameters with Prelox: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Phytother.Res 2009;23(3):297-302. View abstract.

Stefanescu, M., Matache, C., Onu, A., Tanaseanu, S., Dragomir, C., Constantinescu, I., Schonlau, F., Rohdewald, P., and Szegli, G. Pycnogenol efficacy in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Phytother Res 2001;15(8):698-704. View abstract.

Steigerwalt, R., Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Di, Renzo A., Grossi, M. G., Ricci, A., Dugall, M., Cacchio, M., and Schonlau, F. Pycnogenol improves microcirculation, retinal edema, and visual acuity in early diabetic retinopathy. J.Ocul.Pharmacol.Ther. 2009;25(6):537-540. View abstract.

Stuard, S., Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Ricci, A., Dugall, M., Cornelli, U., Gizzi, G., Pellegrini, L., and Rohdewald, P. J. Kidney function in metabolic syndrome may be improved with Pycnogenol(R). Panminerva Med. 2010;52(2 Suppl 1):27-32. View abstract.

Suzuki, N., Uebaba, K., Kohama, T., Moniwa, N., Kanayama, N., and Koike, K. French maritime pine bark extract significantly lowers the requirement for analgesic medication in dysmenorrhea: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Reprod.Med. 2008;53(5):338-346. View abstract.

Thornfeldt, C. Cosmeceuticals containing herbs: fact, fiction, and future. Dermatol.Surg. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):873-880. View abstract.

Torras, M. A., Faura, C. A., Schonlau, F., and Rohdewald, P. Antimicrobial activity of Pycnogenol. Phytother Res 2005;19(7):647-648. View abstract.

Trebaticka, J., Kopasova, S., Hradecna, Z., Cinovsky, K., Skodacek, I., Suba, J., Muchova, J., Zitnanova, I., Waczulikova, I., Rohdewald, P., and Durackova, Z. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol. Eur.Child Adolesc.Psychiatry 2006;15(6):329-335. View abstract.

van Jaarsveld, H., Kuyl, J. M., Schulenburg, D. H., and Wiid, N. M. Effect of flavonoids on the outcome of myocardial mitochondrial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Res Commun.Mol Pathol.Pharmacol 1996;91(1):65-75. View abstract.

Virgili, F., Kobuchi, H., and Packer, L. Procyanidins extracted from Pinus maritima (Pycnogenol): scavengers of free radical species and modulators of nitrogen monoxide metabolism in activated murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Free Radic.Biol Med 1998;24(7-8):1120-1129. View abstract.

Voss, P., Horakova, L., Jakstadt, M., Kiekebusch, D., and Grune, T. Ferritin oxidation and proteasomal degradation: protection by antioxidants. Free Radic.Res 2006;40(7):673-683. View abstract.

Wang S, Tan D Zhao Y et al. The effect of pycnogenol on the microcirculation, platelet function and ischemic myocardium in patients with coronary artery diseases. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:19-25.

Wei, Z., Peng, Q., and Lau, B. Pycnogenol enhances endothelial cell antioxidant defenses. Redox Report 1997;3:219-224.

Zhang, D., Tao, Y., Gao, J., Zhang, C., Wan, S., Chen, Y., Huang, X., Sun, X., Duan, S., Schonlau, F., Rohdewald, P., and Zhao, B. Pycnogenol in cigarette filters scavenges free radicals and reduces mutagenicity and toxicity of tobacco smoke in vivo. Toxicol Ind Health 2002;18(5):215-224. View abstract.

Zibadi, S., Rohdewald, P. J., Park, D., and Watson, R. R. Reduction of cardiovascular risk factors in subjects with type 2 diabetes by Pycnogenol supplementation. Nutr.Res. 2008;28(5):315-320. View abstract.

Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Ricci A, et al. Control of edema in hypertensive subjects treated with calcium antagonist (nifedipine) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost 2006;12:440-4. View abstract.

Arcangeli P. Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Fitoterapia 2000;71:236-44. View abstract.

Bito T, Roy S, Sen CK, Packer L. Pine bark extract pycnogenol downregulates IFN-gamma-induced adhesion of T cells to human keratinocytes by inhibiting inducible ICAM-1 expression. Free Radic Biol Med 2000;28:219-27.. View abstract.

Blazso G, Gabor M, Schonlau F, Rohdewald P. Pycnogenol accelerates wound healing and reduces scar formation. Phytother Res 2004;18:579-81. View abstract.

Branchey L, Branchey M, Shaw S, Lieber CS. Relationship between changes in plasma amino acids and depression in alcoholic patients. Am J Psychiatry 1984;141:1212-5. View abstract.

Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Nicolaides AN, et al. Prevention of venous thrombosis in long-haul flights with Flite Tabs: The LONFLIT-FLITE randomized, controlled trial. Angiology 2003;54:531-9. View abstract.

Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, et al. Improvement of diabetic microangiopathy with Pycnogenol: A prospective, controlled study. Angiology 2006;57:431-6. View abstract.

Cheshier JE, Ardestani-Kaboudanian S, Liang B, et al. Immunomodulation by pycnogenol in retrovirus-induced or ethanol-fed mice. Life Sci 1996;58:87-96. View abstract.

Corrigan JJ Jr. Coagulation problems relating to vitamin E. Am J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 1979;1:169-73. View abstract.

Dauer A, Metzner P, Schimmer O. Proanthocyanidins from the bark of Hamamelis virginiana exhibit antimutagenic properties against nitroaromatic compounds. Planta Med 1998;64:324-7. View abstract.

Durackova Z, Trebaticky B, Novotny V, et al. Lipid metabolism and erectile function improvement by Pycnogenol, extract from the bark of Pinus pinaster in patients suffering from erectile dysfunction-a pilot study. Nutr Res 2003;23:1189-98..

Farid R, Mirfeizi Z Mirheidari M Z Rezaieyazdi Mansouri H Esmaelli H. Pycnogenol® supplementation reduces pain and stiffness and improves physical function in adults with knee osteoarthritis. Nutrition Research 2007;27(11):692-697.

Fitzpatrick DF, Bing, Rohdewald P. Endothelium-dependent vascular effects of Pycnogenol. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 1998;32:509-15. View abstract.

Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler's Honest Herbal, 4th ed., Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.

Grosse Duweler K, Rohdewald P. Urinary metabolites of French maritime pine bark extract in humans. Pharmazie 2000;55:364-8. View abstract.

Gulati OP. Pycnogenol in venous disorders: a review. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:8-13.

Hasegawa N. Inhibition of lipogenesis by pycnogenol. Phytother Res 2000;14:472-3. View abstract.

Heiman SW. Pycnogenol for ADHD? J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 1999;38:357-8. View abstract.

Hosseini S, Lee J, Sepulveda RT, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective, 16 week crossover study to determine the role of pycnogenol in modifying blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. Nutr Res 2001;21:1251-60.

Institute of Medicine. The role of protein and amino acids in sustaining and enhancing performance. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1999. Available at: http://books.nap.edu/books/0309063469/html/309.html#pagetop

Jialal I, Devaraj S, Hirany S, et al. The effect of pycnogenol supplementation on markers of inflammation. Alternative Therapies 2001;7:S17.

Koch R. Comparative study of venostatin and pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Phytother Res 2002:16:S1-S5. Phytother Res 2002:16:S1-S5. View abstract.

Kohama T, Inoue M. Pycnogenol alleviates pain associated with pregnancy. Phytother Res 2006;20:232-4. View abstract.

Kohama T, Suzuki N, Ohno S, Inoue M. Analgesic efficacy of French maritime pine bark extract in dysmenorrhea: an open clinical trial. J Reprod Med 2004;49:828-32. View abstract.

Kohama T, Suzuki N. The treatment of gynecological disorders with pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:30-2.

Lau BH, Riesen SK, Truong KP, et al. Pycnogenol as an adjunct in the management of childhood asthma. J Asthma 2004;41:825-32. View abstract.

Liu F, Lau BHS, Peng Q, Shah V. Pycnogenol protects vascular endothelial cells from beta-amyloid-induced injury. Biol Pharm Bull 2000;23:735-7. View abstract.

Liu FJ, Zhang YX, Lau BH. Pycnogenol enhances immune and haemopoietic functions in senescence-accelerated mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 1998;54:1168-72. View abstract.

Liu X, Wei J, Tan F, et al. Antidiabetic effect of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in patients with diabetes type II. Life Sci 2004;75:2505-13. View abstract.

Liu X, Zhou HJ, Rohdewald P. French maritime pine bark extract pycnogenol dose-dependently lowers glucose in type 2 diabetic patients (letter). Diabetes Care 2004;27:839. View abstract.

Mensink RP, Katan MB. An epidemiological and an experimental study on the effect of olive oil on total serum and HDL cholesterol in healthy volunteers. Eur J Clin Nutr 1989;43 Suppl 2:43-8. View abstract.

Ohnishi ST, Ohnishi T, Ogunmola GB. Sickle cell anemia: a potential nutritional approach for a molecular disease. Nutrition 2000;16:330-8. View abstract.

Packer L, Midori H, Toshikazu Y, eds. Antioxidant Food Supplements in Human Health. San Diego: Academic Press, 1999.

Park YC, Rimbach G, Saliou C, et al. Activity of monomeric, dimeric, and trimeric flavonoids on NO production, TNF-alpha secretion, and NF-KB-dependent gene expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages. FEBS Letters 2000:465;93-7. View abstract.

Pavlovic P. Improved endurance by use of antioxidants. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:26-9.

Petrassi C, Mastromarino A, Spartera C. Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Phytomedicine 2000;7:383-8. View abstract.

Putter M, Grotemeyer KH, Wurthwein G, et al. Inhibition of smoking-induced platelet aggregation by aspirin and pycnogenol. Thromb Res 1999;95:155-61. View abstract.

Rice-Evans CA, Packer L, eds. Flavonoids in Health and Disease. Manhattan, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 1998.

Rohdewald P. Bioavailability and metabolism of pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:5-7.

Rohdewald P. Reducing the risk for stroke and heart infarction with pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:14-18.

Roseff SJ, Gulati R. Improvement of sperm quality by pycnogenol. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:33-6.

Saliou C, Rimbach G, Molni H, McLaughlin L, Hosseini S, Lee J, et al. Solar ultraviolet-induced erythema in human skin and nuclear factor-kappa-b-dependent gene expression in keratinocytes are modulated by a French Maritime pine bark extract. Free Radic Biol Med 2001;30:154-60. View abstract.

Schmidtke I, Schoop W. Pycnogenol: stasis oedema and its medical treatment. Schweizerische Zeitschrift fur GanzheitsMedizin 1995;3:114-5.

Skyrme-Jones RA, O'Brien RC, Berry KL, Meredith IT. Vitamin E supplementation improves endothelial function in type I diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. J Am Coll Cardiol 2000;36:94-102. View abstract.

Spadea L, Balestrazzi E. Treatment of vascular retinopathies with pycnogenol. Phytother Res 2001;15:219-23. View abstract.

Stanislavov R, Nikolova V. Treatment of erectile dysfunction with pycnogenol and L-arginine. J Sex Marital Ther 2003;29:207-13.. View abstract.

Steigerwalt, R. D., Gianni, B., Paolo, M., Bombardelli, E., Burki, C., and Schonlau, F. Effects of Mirtogenol on ocular blood flow and intraocular hypertension in asymptomatic subjects. Mol Vis 2008;14:1288-1292. View abstract.

Tenenbaum S, Paull JC, Sparrow EP, et al. An experimental comparison of Pycnogenol and methylphenidate in adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). J Atten Disord 2002;6:49-60.. View abstract.

Tixier JM, et al. Evidence by in vivo and in vitro studies that binding of pycnogenols to elastin affects its rate of degradation by elastases. Biochem Pharmacol 1984;33:3933-9. View abstract.

Vinciguerra G, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, et al. Cramps and muscular pain: prevention with Pyconogenol in normal subjects, venous patients, athletes, claudicants and in diabetic microangiopathy. Angiology 2006;57:331-9. View abstract.

Virgili F, Kim D, Packer L. Procyanidins extracted from pine bark protect alpha-tocopherol in ECV 304 endothelial cells challenged by activated RAW 264.7 macrophages: role of nitric oxide and peroxynitrite. FEBS Letters 1998;431:315-8. View abstract.

Virgili F, Pagana G, Bourne L, et al. Ferulic acid excretion as a marker of consumption of a French maritime pine (Pinus maritima) bark extract. Free Radic Biol Med 2000;28:1249-56.. View abstract.

Wang S, Tan D, Zhao Y, et al. The effect of pycnogenol on the microcirculation, platelet function and ischemic myocardium in patients with coronary artery diseases. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:19-25.

Watson RR. Reduction of cardiovascular disease risk factors by French maritime pine bark extract. CVR&R 1999;June:326-9.

Wilson D, Evans M, Guthrie N et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study to evaluate the potential of pycnogenol for improving allergic rhinitis symptoms. Phytother Res 2010;24:1115-9. View abstract.

Yang HM, Liao MF, Zhu SY, et al. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Pycnogenol on the climacteric syndrome in peri-menopausal women. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2007;86:978-85. View abstract.

Pycnogenol: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Prof. Nancy Dach

Last Updated:

Views: 6341

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (77 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Prof. Nancy Dach

Birthday: 1993-08-23

Address: 569 Waelchi Ports, South Blainebury, LA 11589

Phone: +9958996486049

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Web surfing, Scuba diving, Mountaineering, Writing, Sailing, Dance, Blacksmithing

Introduction: My name is Prof. Nancy Dach, I am a lively, joyous, courageous, lovely, tender, charming, open person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.