Pycnogenol an impressive supplement

PYCNOGENOL is an impressive supplement with a wide range of applications. It’s rich in antioxidants which protect cells in the body from damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties can ease arthritic pain, and reduce skin inflammation. It increases the production of hyaluronic acid which is an important nutrient for skin and joint health. There is some research to suggest that it can help relieve asthma, and hayfever, improve brain function, and can even help reduce LDL cholesterol. What an amazing supplement. Pycnogenol is an extract from the French maritime pine bark grown in South West France.

I first heard about Pycogenol over twenty years ago and at that time I learned that it had impressive benefits for Asthma. But it was one of those supplements that never quite made it.

Lately I have been hearing more and more about it. So I thought I would look a little deeper at this supplement.

It seems that there are benefits for people with Asthma in both adults and children. Research showed that there was improved breathing and less reliance on inhalers after only a month’s use at 100mg per day for adults.

Pycnogenol binds to collagen and elastin to support skin structure and condition. It inhibits damage to collagen caused by inflammation and infection. It stimulates hyaluronic acid production, an important nutrient for skin health, helping to keep the skin moist and hydrated. Pycnogenol may help reduce skin pigmentation, and age spots through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. It’s no surprise that pycnogenol is a hot favourite among many of the Hollywood stars.

Improvements can also be seen in cardiovascular health. Pycnogenol allows the walls of the blood vessels to relax improving the flow of blood through the major arteries, smaller blood vessels, and capillaries. It is associated with lowering the levels of LDL cholesterol and increasing levels of HDL - the good cholesterol. There are some indications that it can modify blood pressure.

Its ability to inhibit histamine release combined with its anti-inflammatory properties can help combat the allergic response to pollen and airborne allergens. It’s reported to relieve symptoms of hay fever.

The high levels of antioxidants protect the delicate tissue of the eyes from damage helping to protect from eye disease.