pine bark extract

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

pine bark extract, also known as Pycnogenol, is a natural supplement derived from the French maritime pine tree. The action of pine Bark Extract includes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Its spectrum of benefits may include improving cardiovascular health, supporting skin health, enhancing cognitive function, and reducing symptoms associated with various conditions such as venous insufficiency and chronic venous disease. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

gastric discomfort 

nausea 

dizziness 

headache 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There were no specific black box warnings associated with pine Bark Extract. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Allergic Reactions: Individuals who are allergic to pine or related substances should avoid pine Bark Extract. Allergic reactions might include skin rash, itching, swelling, or respiratory symptoms. 
• Medication Interactions: pine Bark Extract may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants and medications for high blood pressure. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are taking any prescription medications. 
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Limited information is available regarding the safety of pine Bark Extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Caution: 

• Blood Pressure: pine Bark Extract may have a blood pressure-lowering effect. If you have low blood pressure (hypotension), use it with caution and monitor your blood pressure regularly. 
• Bleeding Disorders: Given its mild anticoagulant properties, individuals with bleeding disorders should use pine Bark Extract with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. 
• Surgery: pine Bark Extract may have mild anticoagulant effects, so individuals scheduled for surgery should inform their healthcare providers about their use of the supplement. Discontinuing the supplement before the surgical procedure may be recommended.

Comorbidities: 

• Hypotension: pine Bark Extract may have blood pressure-lowering effects. If you have hypotension, using this supplement may further reduce your blood pressure. Monitoring your blood pressure regularly is essential if you choose to use pine Bark Extract. 
• Liver Disease: Individuals with liver disease should use pine Bark Extract cautiously, as it may affect liver enzymes. Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance. 
• Allergies: If you have known allergies to pine or similar substances, it is important to exercise caution when using pine Bark Extract, as it may lead to allergic reactions. Allergic reactions could manifest as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory symptoms. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

pregnancy category: not assigned 

Lactation: excreted into human milk: unknown   

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

pine bark extract, commonly known as Pycnogenol, is derived from the French maritime pine tree (Pinus pinaster) and contains a mixture of bioflavonoids, procyanidins, and organic acids. Its pharmacological actions are primarily attributed to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pycnogenol supports the production of nitric oxide, which helps to improve blood vessel function and circulation.

Additionally, Pycnogenol has been reported to inhibit the activation of certain inflammatory enzymes and modulate immune responses. These mechanisms make pine bark extract a valuable natural supplement with potential benefits for cardiovascular health, skin health, and overall well-being. It is often used as an adjunct in the management of various conditions, including chronic venous insufficiency, allergies, and skin aging, due to its broad pharmacological effects.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Antioxidant Activity: Pycnogenol is a potent antioxidant that neutralize harmful free radicals & reduce the oxidative stress in the body. It does so by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. This antioxidant action protects cells and tissues from damage caused by oxidative processes. 
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: pine Bark Extract contains bioflavonoids and procyanidins that can help modulate the inflammatory response. By inhibiting the activation of certain enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade, Pycnogenol has the potential to reduce inflammation and its associated symptoms. 
• Improved Blood Flow: Pycnogenol supports the production of nitric oxide that dilates blood vessels. This vasodilatory effect enhances blood flow and circulation, making it valuable in conditions related to blood vessel function, like chronic venous insufficiency and cardiovascular health. 
• Immune System Modulation: Pycnogenol has shown some ability to modulate immune responses, helping to regulate the immune system’s activity. This can be beneficial in conditions influenced by immune dysregulation, such as allergies.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

After oral ingestion of pine Bark Extract supplements, the active compounds are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The absorption may vary depending on the specific formulation of the supplement. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, the active components of pine Bark Extract are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. The procyanidins and bioflavonoids present in the extract have the potential to reach various tissues and organs. 

Metabolism 

Some compounds in pine Bark Extract may undergo metabolism in the liver. However, details about specific metabolic pathways or metabolites are limited. 

Elimination and excretion 

Elimination pathways for pine Bark Extract or its metabolites are not extensively documented. It is not clear whether it is primarily excreted via urine or feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Dosage: The appropriate dosage of pine Bark Extract can vary based on the specific health concern you are addressing and the product’s concentration. Typical dosages may range from 50 mg to 300 mg per day. 
• Frequency: The frequency of administration can also vary, but it has commonly taken once or twice a day with meals. 
• Duration: The duration of use should be based on the specific reason for taking pine Bark Extract. Short-term use may be suitable for addressing acute issues, while some individuals use it long-term for its potential health benefits. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: pine bark extract 

Pronounced: (pine bark ex-trakt)  

Why do we use pine bark extract? 

pine bark extract is rich in antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which can help combat oxidative stress and reduce free radical damage in the body. Some people use pine bark extract for its potential to promote skin health. It is believed to enhance skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and protect against the damage from UV radiation. pine bark extract may help manage joint discomfort and stiffness, making it a popular choice for those with osteoarthritis and other joint-related conditions.