Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract)

Supplements · Antioxidants · Supplement, Typed Supps

A specific patented pine bark extract — a small blood pressure benefit, but a big review found not enough evidence for treating any condition.

Stage by stage

Intake (Capsule): Active procyanidin compounds absorbed in the small intestine.
Small intestine (Absorbed): Absorbed alongside other plant compounds.
Bloodstream (Antioxidant activity): Circulates with antioxidant activity.
Blood vessel function (Modest studied effect): Studied for modest effects on blood vessel function and circulation.

What the evidence supports

Lowering blood pressure and improving endothelial function — limited evidence. Meta-analyses show a small blood-pressure reduction (a few mmHg), but most trials are small and manufacturer-funded.
Treating chronic disorders generally — insufficient evidence. A Cochrane review concluded the evidence is insufficient to support Pycnogenol for any chronic condition, citing small samples, bias and likely publication bias — 11 of 15 trials were manufacturer-funded.

Typical dose

100–200 mg daily

Upper limit: No established UL

Timing

With food, standard dosing.

Time to effect

Weeks: Any reported circulation-related effect in studies.

Medication interactions

Anticoagulants and antiplatelets: Proanthocyanidins may add to bleeding risk. (moderate)
Diabetes medication: May lower blood glucose further, risking hypoglycaemia. (moderate)
Immunosuppressants: It may stimulate immune activity, working against the drug. (moderate)

Common myth

“Pycnogenol and generic pine bark extract are interchangeable.” In reality: Much of the research specifically used the patented extraction process — generic pine bark extracts aren’t guaranteed to match it.