Pycnogenol = Antioxidant

Pycnogenol is an Antioxidant Let's Learn About "Antioxidants"

According to Lobo et al. in 2010, antioxidants are molecules that help prevent or slow down cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can react with various cellular structures, causing cumulative damage. 

Having sufficient levels of antioxidants helps reduce the risk of many chronic diseases and can also slow down premature aging processes.

Sources of Antioxidants 

Antioxidants are found both in food and in our bodies. Food sources rich in antioxidants include:

• Colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, dark leafy greens, and oranges

• Nuts and seeds

• Green and black tea

• Dark chocolate 

According to a 2008 study by Pham-Huy et al., the body can also produce certain antioxidants on its own, such as glutathione.

What is Pycnogenol? 

According to Rohdewald's 2002 research, Pycnogenol is a trademark name for an extract from pine bark found in southwestern France (Pinus pinaster). It is rich in phenolic compounds, especially procyanidins, which have high antioxidant properties. In other words, Pycnogenol is one of the sources of antioxidants.

Health Benefits of Pycnogenol 

Several research studies have shown various health benefits of Pycnogenol:

1. Vascular Health

According to Gulati's 2015 research, Pycnogenol helps improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of venous diseases.

2. Anti-inflammatory

Studies by Canali et al. in 2009 indicated that Pycnogenol helps reduce inflammation in the body, which is a cause of many chronic diseases.

3. Skin Health

According to Grether-Beck's 2016 study, Pycnogenol helps protect collagen and elastin in the skin, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.

4. Immune System

Research by Belcaro et al. in 2013 also indicated that Pycnogenol helps strengthen the body's immune system.

Using Pycnogenol for Health and Beauty 

Pycnogenol is available in dietary supplements and as an ingredient in skincare products. Taking Pycnogenol supplements may help improve overall health, and according to Furumura et al.'s 2012 study, using skincare products containing Pycnogenol may help protect the skin from damage caused by sunlight and pollution.

References

• Lobo, V., Patil, A., Phatak, A., & Chandra, N. (2010). Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(8), 118-126.

• Pham-Huy, L. A., He, H., & Pham-Huy, C. (2008). Free radicals, antioxidants in disease and health. International Journal of Biomedical Science, 4(2), 89-96.

• Rohdewald, P. (2002). A review of the French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), a herbal medication with a diverse clinical pharmacology. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 40(4), 158-168.

• Gulati, O. P. (2015). Pycnogenol® in venous disorders: A review. Phytotherapy Research, 29(3), 317-324.

• Canali, R., Comitato, R., Schonlau, F., & Virgili, F. (2009). The anti-inflammatory pharmacology of Pycnogenol® in humans involves COX-2 and 5-LOX mRNA expression in leukocytes. International Immunopharmacology, 9(10), 1145-1149.

• Grether-Beck, S., Marini, A., Jaenicke, T., & Krutmann, J. (2016). French Maritime Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol®) Effects on Human Skin: Clinical and Molecular Evidence. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 29(1), 13-17.

• Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Genovesi, D., Ledda, A., Vinciguerra, G., Ricci, A., ... & Dugall, M. (2013). Pycnogenol® may alleviate adverse effects in oncologic treatment. Panminerva Medica, 55(3 Suppl), 1-8.

• Furumura, M., Sato, N., Kusaba, N., Takagaki, K., & Nakayama, J. (2012). Oral administration of French maritime pine bark extract (Flavangenol®) improves clinical symptoms in photoaged facial skin. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 7, 275-286.