Pine Bark Extract
Pine Bark extract, also known as Pygenol, have been used extensively in Europe and States as a supplement for high blood pressure. It is an effective anti-oxidant that provides cellular protection from harmful free radicals, thus prevent degenerative disorders associated with free radical damage. Helps increase stamina and endurance.
Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) are the most active compounds in pine bark extract, which contains anti-oxidants 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 more powerful than vitamin E. Its anti aging properties helps maintain a healthy and firm skin. Pine Bark extract improves the elasticity of the arteries, veins and capillaries.
Pine bark extract, also known as Pygenol is made from the bark of a European coastal pine tree called the Landes or maritime pine, whose scientific name is Pinus maritima.
Researchers have termed the group of antioxidants found in pine bark extract oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or OPCs for short, which contains anti-oxidants 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 more powerful than vitamin E. OPCs (also referred to as PCOs) are some of the most powerful antioxidants available.
Antioxidants play a key role of repairing and protecting cells in the body. They help protect against free radicals, which are damaging byproducts of metabolism and exposure to environmental pollutants. Free radical damage is believed to contribute to aging, as well as too severe conditions including heart disease and cancer.
Pine bark extract has been shown to help lower cholesterol, and to decrease the risk and severity of atherosclerosis, or damage to the arteries. It has been demonstrated to help strengthen and repair tissues made of collagen, a protein that builds blood vessels, skin, and connective tissue.
The OPCs in pine bark extract have also been shown to help reduce swelling and inflammation in the body.
Benefits
Pine bark extract is used to reduce the risk and severity of heart disease, strokes, high cholesterol, and circulation problems.
It is used in the nutritional treatment of varicose veins and oedema, which is swelling in the body due to fluid retention and leakage of blood vessels.
Arthritis and inflammation have also been improved in studies using pine bark extract, as well as the uncomfortable symptoms of PMS and menopause.
The OPCs in pine bark extract are recommended for various eye conditions that are caused by blood vessel damage, such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
Pine bark extract is recommended to improve the health and smoothness of the skin, including damage caused by overexposure to sunlight.
