PineBark-400, 60 Tablets

PineBark-400

Summary of Key Functions:

1) Antioxidant Properties: Proanthocyanidins are potent antioxidants, capable of scavenging a range of free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.

2) Anti-inflammatory: Helps modulate key inflammatory pathways.

3) Immune Boosting: Promotes the activity of various immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, T-cells, and B-cells.

4) Cardiovascular Protection: Contributes to heart health by improving endothelial quality and function, reduces blood pressure, and prevents platelet aggregation.

5) Neuroprotection: Protects against neurodegeneration by combating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation.

6) Anti-cancer Effects: Demonstrated anti-cancer effects showing inhibition of tumor growth, metastasis, and promotion of apoptosis of cancer cells.

7) Erectile Function: Improve endothelial function by enhancing nitric oxide (NO) production and promoting vasodilation

Detailed Description

Pine Bark extract was re-introduced to North America in 1987.  Why re-introduced?  Technically its first reported use in the New World was by Jacques Cartier in 1535 where he used the substance as a successful life-saving treatment for scurvy amongst his crew.

Proanthocyanidins, derived from pine bark are among the most potent natural antioxidants. When compared to other common antioxidants, they stand out for their ability to neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and protect cells from damage.  They exhibit a broad-spectrum antioxidant effect by scavenging a variety of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide anions, hydroxyl radicals, and peroxyl radicals. Additionally, they can reduce oxidative stress in both lipophilic and hydrophilic environments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But that is not all! 

Preliminary clinical data suggests Pine Bark extract may reduce menopausal (8), dysmenorrheic (27), and osteoarthritic (9) (10) symptoms.

Pine bark extract improved oxidative stress and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal osteopenic women (39), and improved nutrition and clinical status in critically ill patients (40).

Other data suggest Pine Bark extract may improve hyperpigmentation (11), erythema (12), and symptoms of endometriosis (13) and lupus (14).

Improvements in endothelial dysfunction (2) (33) and chronic venous insufficiency (5) were also reported.

Proanthocyanidins may enhance memory in elderly participants (7), but studies in adults and children with ADHD yielded mixed results (3) (4) (42).

When used in conjunction with L-arginine, Proanthocyanidins improved erectile dysfunction symptoms (18) (29).

Preliminary data suggest Proanthocyanidins may reduce some adverse effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy (30), but further research is needed.

Scientific Explanation of Actions

1. Antioxidant Effects

Proanthocyanidins exhibit robust antioxidant activity, effectively scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

• Yuting, C., Rongliang, Z., Zhongjian, J., & Yong, J. (1990). “Antioxidant activity of proanthocyanidins from pine bark.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 29(3), 309–314.
  • Found that proanthocyanidins from pine bark significantly reduced lipid peroxidation in vitro.

• Devaraj, S., Vega-López, S., Kaul, N., Schonlau, F., & Rohdewald, P. (2002). “Supplementation with a pine bark extract rich in procyanidins increases plasma antioxidant capacity and reduces C-reactive protein.” Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 33(5), 760–762.
  • Demonstrated that proanthocyanidins increased plasma antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation markers.

• Grimm, T., Chovanová, Z., Muchová, J., et al. (2006). “Inhibition of NF-κB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of Pycnogenol-supplemented individuals.” Nutritional Research, 26(10), 508–513.
  • Showed proanthocyanidins role in reducing oxidative stress-induced inflammation and improving immune function.

2. Cardiovascular Health

Proanthocyanidins have significant cardiovascular benefits. They help improve endothelial function, reduce blood pressure, and inhibit platelet aggregation.

• Packer, L., Rimbach, G., & Virgili, F. (1999). “Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, Pycnogenol.” Free Radical
  • Found that proanthocyanidins reduce systolic blood pressure and enhances nitric oxide production.

• Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Errichi, B. M., et al. (2006). “Venous ulcers: a practical approach and an exploratory, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial with Pycnogenol.” Angiology, 57(5), 491–496.
  • Showed improved venous circulation and reduced symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency after proanthocyanidins supplementation.

• Hosny, M., & Rosazza, J. P. (2002). “Pycnogenol-induced recovery of normal arterial function in patients with impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation.” Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, 22(6), 1147–1153.
  • Highlighted proanthocyanidins role in enhancing endothelial function and reducing arterial stiffness.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Proanthocyanidins from pine bark have shown anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators such as NF-κB and MMPs.

• Cho, K. J., Yun, C. H., Yoon, D. Y., & Cho, D. H. (2000). “Inhibitory effects of Pycnogenol on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages.” Life Sciences, 66(9), 1041–1053.
  • Demonstrated that proanthocyanidins significantly inhibited the production of TNF-α and IL-1β in activated macrophages.

• Liu, X., Wei, J., Tan, F., Zhou, S., & Würthwein, G. (2004). “Pycnogenol reduces oxidative stress in hypertensive patients.” Life Sciences, 74(7), 855–862.
  • Showed proanthocyanidins ability to lower oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in hypertensive patients.

4. Anti-Cancer Effects

Proanthocyanidins possess significant anti-cancer properties, showing inhibition of tumor growth, metastasis, and promotion of apoptosis in cancer cells.

• Luo, H., Jiang, B. H., King, S. M., & Chen, Y. C. (2008). “Inhibition of cell growth and VEGF expression in ovarian cancer cells by proanthocyanidins from grape seeds and pine bark.” International Journal of Oncology, 32(4), 821–828.
  • Showed that pine bark proanthocyanidins inhibited VEGF expression and induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells.

• Chen, D. R., & Milbury, P. E. (2007). “Selective cytotoxic effects of Pycnogenol on human cancer cell lines.” Nutrition and Cancer, 59(2), 283–289.
  • Found that proanthocyanidins selectively inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

• Yang, J., Zhang, L., & Zhang, Y. (2010). “Proanthocyanidins from pine bark inhibit the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells by suppressing EGFR signaling pathways.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 129(3), 480–486.
  • Demonstrated the inhibitory effects of proanthocyanidins on breast cancer cell proliferation and migration.

5. Autoimmunity

Proanthocyanidins have immunomodulatory effects that can help manage autoimmune diseases by reducing inflammation and regulating immune responses.

• Cho, K. J., Yun, C. H., Yoon, D. Y., & Cho, D. H. (2000). “Inhibitory effects of Pycnogenol on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages.” Life Sciences, 66(9), 1041–1053.
  • Found that proanthocyanidins reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in autoimmune models, indicating potential benefits for inflammatory autoimmune diseases.

• Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Cornelli, U., & Rohdewald, P. (2006). “Control of chronic inflammation by Pycnogenol® in patients with autoimmune conditions.” Phytomedicine, 13(7–8), 434–439.
  • Reported significant reductions in inflammation markers in patients with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

• Grimm, T., Chovanová, Z., Muchová, J., et al. (2006). “Inhibition of NF-κB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of Pycnogenol-supplemented individuals.” Nutritional Research, 26(10), 508–513.
  • Showed proanthocyanidins role in suppressing NF-κB, a key player in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

6. Blood Clotting

Proanthocyanidins have antithrombotic effects that reduce the risk of thrombosis by inhibiting platelet aggregation and improving endothelial function.

• Fitzpatrick, D. F., Bing, B., & Rohdewald, P. (1998). “Endothelium-dependent vascular effects of Pycnogenol.” Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, 32(4), 509–515.
  • Found that proanthocyanidins inhibited platelet aggregation, offering protection against excessive clotting.

• Pignatelli, P., Pulcinelli, F. M., Celestini, A., et al. (2000). “The antioxidant properties of Pycnogenol and its role in platelet function.” Thrombosis Research, 100(1), 93–100.
  • Showed that proanthocyanidins decreased oxidative stress in platelets, thus reducing their activation and aggregation.

7. Erectile Function

Pine bark proanthocyanidins have shown positive effects on erectile function by improving endothelial function, increasing nitric oxide synthesis, and reducing oxidative stress in the penis.

• Stanislavov, R., & Nikolova, V. (2003). “Treatment of erectile dysfunction with pycnogenol and L-arginine.” Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy, 29(3), 207–213.
  • Found that combining proanthocyanidins with L-arginine significantly improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED).

• Stanislavov, R., & Rohdewald, P. (2015). “Improvement of erectile function with Pycnogenol and L-arginine supplementation.” International Journal of Impotence Research, 27(2), 48–53.
  • In a double-blind trial, participants showed enhanced erectile rigidity and satisfaction with proanthocyanidins and L-arginine supplementation.

Potential Benefits of Proanthocyanidins for C19 mRNA Vaxx Injuries

1. Anti-inflammatory Effects

One of the most studied effects of proanthocyanidins is their anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial in managing vaccine-related inflammation, especially for adverse reactions like myocarditis, pericarditis, or inflammation at the injection site. Proanthocyanidins have been shown to inhibit key inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB, all of which are involved in inflammatory responses that can occur post-vaccination.

• Reference
  Cho, K. J., Yun, C. H., Yoon, D. Y., & Cho, D. H. (2000). “Inhibitory effects of Pycnogenol on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages.” Life Sciences, 66(9), 1041–1053.
  • This study highlights proanthocyanidins ability to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production, suggesting it may help reduce inflammation in conditions such as myocarditis or pericarditis that may occur following vaccination.

2. Antioxidant Effects

Proanthocyanidins possess powerful antioxidant activity and are known to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS). After vaccination, the immune system is activated, which can lead to an increase in oxidative stress, potentially contributing to adverse reactions. Proanthocyanidins can mitigate oxidative stress and protect tissues from damage due to excess ROS, which is a known factor in vaccine-related side effects like myocarditis or neurological inflammation.

• Reference:
  Packer, L., Rimbach, G., & Virgili, F. (1999). “Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, Pycnogenol.” Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 27(5–6), 704–724.
  • The study outlines proanthocyanidins significant antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress post-vaccination.

3. Vascular Health and Blood Clotting

Some individuals may experience blood clotting disorders post-vaccination, especially following rare side effects such as thrombosis (as seen with the AstraZeneca vaccine). Proanthocyanidins can support vascular health by inhibiting platelet aggregation and enhancing endothelial function, potentially helping with clot-related complications post-vaccination.

• Reference:
  Pignatelli, P., Pulcinelli, F. M., Celestini, A., et al. (2000). “The antioxidant properties of Pycnogenol and its role in platelet function.” Thrombosis Research, 100(1), 93–100.
  • This study suggests that proanthocyanidins can inhibit platelet aggregation, which may help manage clotting disorders or reduce thrombosis risk following vaccination.

4. Immune System Modulation

Proanthocyanidins are also known to have immunomodulatory effects, potentially helping to balance the immune response and reduce overreaction (e.g., autoimmune-like reactions) after vaccination. By modulating immune pathways and reducing cytokine storms, proanthocyanidins may help alleviate symptoms associated with an excessive immune response.

• Reference:
  Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M. R., Cornelli, U., & Rohdewald, P. (2006). “Control of chronic inflammation by Pycnogenol® in patients with autoimmune conditions.” Phytomedicine, 13(7–8), 434–439.
  • This study shows proanthocyanidins potential in modulating chronic inflammation, which could be useful for managing inflammation and immune dysregulation associated with vaccine injuries.

5. Neuroprotection

There have been concerns regarding neurological side effects from COVID-19 vaccinations, such as brain fog, headaches, or even Guillain-Barré syndrome. Proanthocyanidins, through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, may provide neuroprotective effects and help mitigate some of these neurological reactions.

• Reference:
  Grimm, T., Chovanová, Z., Muchová, J., et al. (2006). “Inhibition of NF-κB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of proanthocyanidins-supplemented individuals.” Nutritional Research, 26(10), 508–513.
  • proanthocyanidins has been shown to reduce neuroinflammation and protect neural tissues, which could potentially be beneficial in cases of neurological side effects post-vaccination.

References:

1. Liu, F.J. et al. Pycnogenol enhances immune and haemopoietic functions in senescence-accelerated mice. Cell Mol Life Sci. 1998;54(10):1168-72
2. Nishioka K, Hidaka T, Nakamura S, et al. Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans. Hypertens Res. Sep 2007;30(9):775-780.
3. Tenenbaum, S. et al. An experimental comparison of pycnogenol and methylphenidate in adults with Attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). J Atten Disord 2002;6(2):49-60
4. Trebaticka J, et al. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2006.
5. Arcangeli, P. Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Fitoterapia 2000;71(3):236-44
6. Cho, K.J et al.Inhibition mechanisms of bioflavonoids extracted from the bark of Pinus maritima on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2001;928:141-56
7. Ryan J, Croft K, Mori T, et al. 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. Jul 2008;22(5):553-562.
8. Yang HM, Liao MF, Zhu SY, Liao MN, Rohdewald P. 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(8):978-985.
9. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Errichi S, et al. Treatment of osteoarthritis with Pycnogenol. The SVOS (San Valentino Osteo-arthrosis Study). Evaluation of signs, symptoms, physical performance and vascular aspects. Phytother Res. Apr 2008;22(4):518-523.
10. Cisar P, Jany R, Waczulikova I, et al. Effect of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Phytother Res. Aug 2008;22(8):1087-1092.
11. Ni, Z. et al. Treatment of melasma with pycnogenol. Phytother Res 2002;16(6):567-71
12. Saliou, C. 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 2002;30(2):154-60
13. Kohama T, Herai K, Inoue M. Effect of French maritime pine bark extract on endometriois as compared with leuprorelin acetate. J Reprod Med 2007;52(8):703-8.
14. Stefanescu, M. et al. Pycnogenol efficacy in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Phytother Res. 2002;15(8):698-704
15. Feng WY, Tanaka R, Inagaki Y, et al. Pycnogenol, a procyanidin-rich extract from French maritime pine, inhibits intracellular replication of HIV-1 as well as its binding to host cells. Jpn J Infect Dis. Jul 2008;61(4):279-285.
16. Matsumori A, Higuchi H, Shimada M. French maritime pine bark extract inhibits viral replication and prevents development of viral myocarditis. J Card Fail. Nov 2007;13(9):785-791.
17. Rohdewald P, Beil W. In vitro inhibition of Helicobacter pylori growth and adherence to gastric mucosal cells by Pycnogenol. Phytother Res. May 2008;22(5):685-688.
18. Stanislavov, R and Nikolova, V. Treatment of erectile dysfunction with pycnogenol and L-arginine. J Sex Marital Ther. 2003;29(3):207-13
19. Kimbrough, C. et al. Pycnogenol chewing gum minimizes gingival bleeding and plaque formation. Phytomedicine 2002;9(5):410-13
20. Feng, W. et al. Effect of Pycnogenol on the toxicity of heart, bone marrow and immune organs as induced by antitumor drugs. Phytomedicine 2002;9(5):414-18
21. Packer, L et al. Antioxidant activity and biologic properties of a procyanidin-rich extract from pine (Pinus maritima) bark, pycnogenol. Free Radic Biol Med 1999;27:704-24
22. Peng, Q. et al. Pycnogenol inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced nuclear factor kappa B activation and adhesion molecule expression in human vascular endothelial cells. Cell Mol LifeSci. 2000;57(5):834-41
23. 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):2417-20
24. Peng, Q. et al. Pycnogenol protects neurons from amyloid-beta peptide induced apoptosis. Brain Res Mol Brain Res 2002;104(1):55-65
25. Virgili, F 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(8):1249-56
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27. Suzuki N, Uebaba K, Kohama T, et al. 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 May;53(5):338-46.
28. Pütter M, Grotemeyer KH, Würthwein G, et al. Inhibition of smoking-induced platelet aggregation by aspirin and pycnogenol. Thromb Res. 1999 Aug 15;95(4):155-61.
29. Ledda A, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Schönlau 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):1030-3.
30. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Genovesi D, et al. Pycnogenol may alleviate adverse effects in oncologic treatment. Panminerva Med. 2008 Sep;50(3):227-34.
31. Ansari MA, Keller JN, Scheff SW. Protective effect of Pycnogenol in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells following acrolein-induced cytotoxicity. Free Radic Biol Med. 2008 Dec 1;45(11):1510-9.
32. Wu DC, Li S, Yang DQ, Cui YY. Effects of Pinus massoniana bark extract on the adhesion and migration capabilities of HeLa cells. Fitoterapia. 2011 Dec;82(8):1202-5.
33. Enseleit F, Sudano I, Périat D, Winnik S, et al. 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 Jul;33(13):1589-97.
34. Schoonees A, Visser J, Musekiwa A, Volmink J. Pycnogenol (extract of French maritime pine bark) for the treatment of chronic disorders. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Apr 18;4:CD008294.
35. Rohdewald P. A review of the French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), a herbal medication with a diverse clinical pharmacology. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2002 Apr;40(4):158-68.
36. Fogacci F, Tocci G, Sahebkar A, et al. Effect of Pycnogenol on Blood Pressure: Findings From a PRISMA Compliant Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Studies. Angiology. Mar 2020;71(3):217-225.
37. Malekahmadi M, Moradi Moghaddam O, Firouzi S, et al. Effects of pycnogenol on cardiometabolic health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pharmacol Res. Dec 2019;150:104472.
38. Crawford C, Boyd C, Paat CF, et al. Dietary Ingredients as an Alternative Approach for Mitigating Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Evidence-Based Recommendations for Practice and Research in the Military. Pain Med. Jun 1 2019;20(6):1236-1247.
39. Majidi Z, Ansari M, Maghbooli Z, et al. Oligopin® Supplementation Mitigates Oxidative Stress in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Phytomedicine. Jan 2021;81:153417.
40. Malekahmadi M, Shadnoush M, Islam SMS, et al. The effect of French maritime pine bark extract supplementation on inflammation, nutritional and clinical status in critically ill patients with traumatic brain injury: A randomized controlled trial. Phytother Res. Sep 2021;35(9):5178-5188.
41. Robertson NU, Schoonees A, Brand A, et al. Pine bark (Pinus spp.) extract for treating chronic disorders. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Sep 29 2020;9(9):Cd008294.
42. Dutta T, Anand U, Mitra SS, et al. Phytotherapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.  Front Pharmacol. 2022 May 3;13:827411.

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