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Study shows pine bark naturally reduces osteoarthritis
April 17, 2008Pycnogenol lowered joint pain by 55% from baseline 'severe' to moderately painful, improved physical function by 56%, joint stiffness by 53% and increased patient's mobility almost 3-fold
More than 20 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, with half a million Americans having a total joint replacement each year. A new study to be published in the April 2008 edition (Volume 22, issue No 4) of the journal of Phytotherapy Research shows Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, was shown to reduce all osteoarthritis symptoms by 56 percent. The study revealed a particularly high efficacy of Pycnogenol for lowering joint pain by 55 percent. Moreover, patients required dramatically less standard pain medication (-58 percent), which greatly improved the gastrointestinal complications resulting from the pain medication by 63 percent.
"Pycnogenol seemed a natural fit for this study," said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher of the study. "There are a few main components contributing to the clinical picture of treatment management in osteoarthritis: inflammation causing a progression in the disease, alteration of fatigue resistance and muscular performance-reversing and blocking the vascular problems associated to altered mobility. Theoretically, a treatment with a compound specifically active on all those aspects could be highly effective, which is why we chose Pycnogenol."
The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, held at Italy's Chieti-Pescara University, sampled 156 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (OA). Patients were administered 100 mg Pycnogenol or placebo, daily for three months. Symptoms were evaluated by WOMAC index scores and mobility by recording their walking performance on a treadmill. Patients were permitted to continue taking their choice of pain medication provided they recorded every tablet in a diary for later evaluation.
To describe and rate osteoarthritis symptoms (joint pain, stiffness and physical function), WOMAC questionnaires were evaluated by the investigator and patient at the start and after three months of treatment. Patients were trained on a treadmill test and performance evaluation was recorded on total distance that could be covered without pain. Measuring foot volume by the water-displacement method was used to evaluate ankle/foot edema in a randomly selected subgroup of subjects within the two treatment groups.
After three months, scores for pain dropped significantly for the Pycnogenol treatment group and no significant effects were recorded for the placebo group. Scores for stiffness were reduced by 53 percent. The scores for physical function were reduced by 57 percent in the Pycnogenol group and improvement under placebo was not significant. The global WOMAC score decreased following Pycnogenol treatment and very little in the placebo group, from 56 percent vs. 9.6 percent for Pycnogenol and placebo, respectively. Overall well-being of patients (emotional function) was significantly enhanced with the Pycnogenol group, by 64 percent and 15 percent for the placebo group.
Results of exercise tests on the treadmill demonstrated an increased performance after three months of Pycnogenol treatment. At the start of the study, patients could only walk a mean of 74 yards without feeling pain and after three months, they could walk 216 yards, compared to the placebo group that noted 71 yards at the beginning of the study and 96 yards at the end.
In addition to the osteoarthritis results, 76 percent of the patients in the Pycnogenol group and 79 percent in the placebo group showed visible ankle and foot edema at inclusion of the study. After the three months, edema decreased in 79 percent of the Pycnogenol patients and only one percent in placebo-treated patients.
Patients were allowed to use their regular dosage of NSAIDS. Usage dropped by 58 percent during treatment with Pycnogenol and one percent with the placebo. Evaluation of data demonstrated a decrease of gastrointestinal complications of 64 percent in the Pycnogenol group versus three percent in placebo.
"The results of this study are significant as they clearly demonstrate the clinical action of Pycnogenol on OA and management of symptoms. The use of Pycnogenol many reduce costs and side effects of anti-inflammatory agents and offer a natural alternative solution to people suffering from OA" said Dr. Belcaro.
A previous study on osteoarthritis which was carried out at the University of Arizona Tucson (published in Nutrition Research) had discovered that Pycnogenol was effective for improving pain and joint function. After three months in the Pycnogenol group, there was a reduction of 43 percent in pain, 35 percent in stiffness, 52 percent in physical function subscales, respectively. The placebo group showed no significant scores throughout the entire study. Dr. Belcaro confirms this earlier study with a much larger number of patients and with a more detailed investigation procedure.
The benefits of Pycnogenol for arthritic joints are suggested to result predominantly from the anti-inflammatory potency of Pycnogenol which was demonstrated in a series of clinical investigations in the past. There are more breakthrough studies on Pycnogenol and osteoarthritis expected to be published next year allowing for development of innovative, natural formulas for joint health. Additionally, Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide distributor of Pycnogenol has filed for several patents for Pycnogenol's application for COX-1, COX-2 and treating osteoarthritis.
"The new research in the field of osteoarthritis has been a paradigm shift for Pycnogenol. We were able to demonstrate Pycnogenol's impact on all inflammatory parameters and have succeeded in providing strong clinical evidence of Pycnogenol efficacy in this field. It is obvious that Pycnogenol will have to be considered as an innovative ingredient of choice for the joint health market," said Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol.
MWW Group
The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, held at Italy's Chieti-Pescara University, sampled 156 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (OA). Patients were administered 100 mg Pycnogenol or placebo, daily for three months. Symptoms were evaluated by WOMAC index scores and mobility by recording their walking performance on a treadmill. Patients were permitted to continue taking their choice of pain medication provided they recorded every tablet in a diary for later evaluation.
To describe and rate osteoarthritis symptoms (joint pain, stiffness and physical function), WOMAC questionnaires were evaluated by the investigator and patient at the start and after three months of treatment. Patients were trained on a treadmill test and performance evaluation was recorded on total distance that could be covered without pain. Measuring foot volume by the water-displacement method was used to evaluate ankle/foot edema in a randomly selected subgroup of subjects within the two treatment groups.
After three months, scores for pain dropped significantly for the Pycnogenol treatment group and no significant effects were recorded for the placebo group. Scores for stiffness were reduced by 53 percent. The scores for physical function were reduced by 57 percent in the Pycnogenol group and improvement under placebo was not significant. The global WOMAC score decreased following Pycnogenol treatment and very little in the placebo group, from 56 percent vs. 9.6 percent for Pycnogenol and placebo, respectively. Overall well-being of patients (emotional function) was significantly enhanced with the Pycnogenol group, by 64 percent and 15 percent for the placebo group.
Results of exercise tests on the treadmill demonstrated an increased performance after three months of Pycnogenol treatment. At the start of the study, patients could only walk a mean of 74 yards without feeling pain and after three months, they could walk 216 yards, compared to the placebo group that noted 71 yards at the beginning of the study and 96 yards at the end.
In addition to the osteoarthritis results, 76 percent of the patients in the Pycnogenol group and 79 percent in the placebo group showed visible ankle and foot edema at inclusion of the study. After the three months, edema decreased in 79 percent of the Pycnogenol patients and only one percent in placebo-treated patients.
Patients were allowed to use their regular dosage of NSAIDS. Usage dropped by 58 percent during treatment with Pycnogenol and one percent with the placebo. Evaluation of data demonstrated a decrease of gastrointestinal complications of 64 percent in the Pycnogenol group versus three percent in placebo.
"The results of this study are significant as they clearly demonstrate the clinical action of Pycnogenol on OA and management of symptoms. The use of Pycnogenol many reduce costs and side effects of anti-inflammatory agents and offer a natural alternative solution to people suffering from OA" said Dr. Belcaro.
A previous study on osteoarthritis which was carried out at the University of Arizona Tucson (published in Nutrition Research) had discovered that Pycnogenol was effective for improving pain and joint function. After three months in the Pycnogenol group, there was a reduction of 43 percent in pain, 35 percent in stiffness, 52 percent in physical function subscales, respectively. The placebo group showed no significant scores throughout the entire study. Dr. Belcaro confirms this earlier study with a much larger number of patients and with a more detailed investigation procedure.
The benefits of Pycnogenol for arthritic joints are suggested to result predominantly from the anti-inflammatory potency of Pycnogenol which was demonstrated in a series of clinical investigations in the past. There are more breakthrough studies on Pycnogenol and osteoarthritis expected to be published next year allowing for development of innovative, natural formulas for joint health. Additionally, Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide distributor of Pycnogenol has filed for several patents for Pycnogenol's application for COX-1, COX-2 and treating osteoarthritis.
"The new research in the field of osteoarthritis has been a paradigm shift for Pycnogenol. We were able to demonstrate Pycnogenol's impact on all inflammatory parameters and have succeeded in providing strong clinical evidence of Pycnogenol efficacy in this field. It is obvious that Pycnogenol will have to be considered as an innovative ingredient of choice for the joint health market," said Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag Research, the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol.
MWW Group
Pycnogenol Current Events and Pycnogenol News RSSStudy demonstrates the anti-inflammatory properties of pine bark extract
A recent study published in International Immunopharmacology, reveals why Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, is effective for reducing inflammation and soothing pain associated with various health problems.
Pine bark reduces inflammatory marker CRP in osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA), a type of arthritis caused by the breakdown and loss of cartilage, affects more than 20 million Americans.
Study shows pine bark reduces jetlag
A new study published in the journal of Minerva Cardioangiologica reveals Pycnogenol, pine bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduces jetlag in passengers by nearly 50 percent.
Study shows pine bark naturally reduces knee osteoarthritis
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is on the rise. A new study published in the August journal of Phytotherapy Research, reveals Pycnogenol, bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduced overall knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms by 20.9 percent and lowered pain by 40.3 percent.
Study shows pine bark naturally reduces cardiovascular risk factors in diabetics
A new study published in the May 2008 (volume 8, issue 25) edition of the journal of Nutrition Research shows Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, reduces blood sugar in type II diabetes patients, allows people to lower their antihypertensive medication and improves cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.
New research accepted for publication in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, demonstrates Pycnogenol, (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, improves the memory of senior citizens.
The study results revealed Pycnogenol improved both numerical working memory as well as spatial working memory using a computerized testing system. The research was presented last week at the Oxygen Club of California 2008 World Congress on Oxidants and Antioxidants in Biology in Santa Barbara, CA.
Horphag's Prelox provides over-the-counter solution
For couples worldwide, erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the leading contributors to a man's inability to perform. As millions of men in America each year look for a solution, many seek alternative treatments to prescription medications and surgery that may have dangerous side effects.
New study: pine bark extract boosts nitric oxide production
A study to be published in the October edition of Hypertension Research reveals Pycnogenol, (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, helps individuals by enhancing healthy nitric oxide (NO) production which leads to an increase in blood flow and oxygen supply to muscles.
New study: Pine bark extract reduces ADHD symptoms in children
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevailing issue in the United States, with millions of children getting diagnosed every year. A new study reveals that Pycnogenol, (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, reduces ADHD in children.
New study: Pine bark reduces perimenopausal symptoms
A study to be published in an upcoming edition of the Scandinavian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology reveals that Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all), pine bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduces "climacteric symptoms" such as hot flashes, depression, panic attacks, cholesterol and other common symptoms associated with women entering menopause transition.
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Source Naturals Pycnogenol, 50mg, Tablets, 120 tablets by Source Naturals Dietary supplement. Proanthocyanidins complex. Pycnogenol is a natural plant product made from the bark of the European coastal pine, Pinus maritima. Pycnogenol is rich in proanthocyanidins, a special class of water-soluble antioxidant flavonoids which are excellent free radical scavengers. Proanthocyanidins are believed to play an important role in maintaining good health. (These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease). |
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Source Naturals Pycnogenol 100mg, 60 tablets by Source Naturals Dietary supplement. Proanthocyanidin complex. Pycnogenol is a natural plant product made from the bark of the European coastal pine, Pinus martima. Pycnogenol is rich in proanthocyanidins, a special class of water-soluble antioxidant flavonoids, which are excellent free radical scavengers. Proanthocyanidins are believed to play an important role in maintaining good health (These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease). Suitable for vegetarians and Hypoallergenic: Contains no yeast, dairy, egg, corn, soy or wheat. Contains no sugar, starch, salt, preservatives, or artificial color, flavor or fragrance. |
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Pycnogenol 100mg 30 Caps by Swanson Ultra Put the antioxidant power of pine to work for you with Pycnogenol! This natural extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree contains some of the most powerful antioxidant flavonoids ever discovered, making it a great source of free-radical protection for collagen structures in the blood vessels, skin, and joint tissues. Our convenient capsules deliver an ultra-potent 100 mg for high-powered antioxidant protection. |
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TwinLabs Pycnogenol Capsules, 50 Mg, 60-Count Bottle by Twinlab Dietary supplement. Patented natural antioxidant standardized pine bark extract. Well tolerated by most highly allergic individuals. No corn, soy, yeast, milk or egg products. No added sugars, salt (sodium), preservatives or tablet binders and coatings. This product is manufactured at our own state of the art facilities with stringent quality control assuring correct potencies and outstanding product freshness. It is packaged in a glass bottle for maximum stability and quality. |
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Source Naturals Pycnogenol Complex, 120 tablets by Source Naturals Dietary supplement. Antioxidant formula rich in flavonoids, proanthocyanidins & Vitamin C. Pycnogenol Complex combines pycnogenol and proanthodyn (grape seed extract), two potent antioxidants, with eight other plantioxidants (plant-derived antioxidants) to create a natural, power-packed antioxidant supplement. Magnesium ascorbate, a non-acidic form of Vitamin C, adds to the antioxidant activity. (These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease). |
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Nature's Purest Pine Bark Extract 100 mg /120 caps by Nature's Purest PINE BARK EXTRACT 90%, is a term describing oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC), a natural substance derived from the bark of certain pine trees. Studies in the test tube have shown PINE BARK EXTRACT (OPC) to be 50 times more potent than Vitamin E as an antioxidant, and 20 times stronger than Vitamin C. Pine Bark Extract is able to cross the blood barrier of the brain to provide extra protection against free radicals in the nervous system and circulatory system. There is also evidence that Pine Bark Extract provides extra protection for collagen. Pine Bark Extract also frees up Vitamin C to perform its many other important functions.* |
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Natrol Pycnogenol, 50mg Capsules - 60 ea by Natrol Please note: Due to product improvements, the image shown may temporarily appear different from the product received. Beneficial Antioxidant Properties Standardized Pine Bark ExtractPycnogenol® is a natural plant extract made from the bark of Pinus Maritima.Natrol Pycogenol ® contains proanthocyandins, powerful compounds that act as antioxidant, free-radical scavengers.* No yeast, wheat, corn, milk, egg, soy, glutens, artificial colors or flavors, added sugar, starch or preservatives. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Made in USA +Pycnogenol® is a brand of Pine Bark Standardized Extract and a registered trademark of... |
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Now Foods Pycnogenol 30mg, 150 Capsules by NOW Pycnogenol is a concentrated natural extract from the bark of pine trees that grows in this 4,000 square mile forest. These pine trees contain concentrated levels of unique flavonoid compounds that support the body's ability to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals (reactive molecules) can inhibit immune functions and expedite the aging process. * Picture may be of different size or flavor |
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Schiff Pycnogenol, 50 mg, Capsules, 30 capsules (Pack of 2) by Schiff Pycnogenol contains antioxidants isolated by a patented method from French Maritime Pine Bark (Pinus Maritimus). Pycnogenol supports healthy, cardiovascular function by protecting blood vessel lining (endothelial) cells from damage by free radicals. This |
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Pycnogenol 50 mg 50 Caps by Swanson Premium Brand Protect your body against free-radical damage with the natural flavonoid power of Pycnogenol! Derived from the bark of the French maritime pine, Pycnogenol is a water-soluble antioxidant flavonoid extract with highly bioavailable procyanidins, catechins, taxifolins and a wide spectrum of phenolic acids. By providing an optimal combination of these valuable flavonoids in a single, concentrated supplement, Pycnogenol helps the body combat environmental stress while protecting vital collagen structures in the blood vessels, skin and joint tissues against the harmful effects of free radicals. |
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