Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol)
Proanthocyanidin-rich extract that improves blood flow, skin elasticity, and cognitive function — backed by 160+ published studies.
Pine Bark Extract, most famously sold as Pycnogenol, is derived from the bark of French maritime pine trees. It's rich in proanthocyanidins (OPCs), the same beneficial compounds found in grape seed extract but with additional unique compounds. Research shows benefits for blood flow, skin health, cognitive function, and inflammation. Pycnogenol is one of the most well-researched herbal extracts with over 160 published studies.
Neutralizes free radicals and regenerates vitamins C and E
Increases nitric oxide production for better blood flow
Binds to collagen and elastin to protect skin structure
How Pine Bark Extract works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
100-200mg daily
Loading: Not required
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Pycnogenol (standardized extract) | Recommended |
| 💊Generic pine bark extract | Alternative |
| 💊OPC complex formulas | Alternative |
Pycnogenol is patented and standardized to 65-75% proanthocyanidins. Generic versions may vary in quality.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Taking with food improves absorption and reduces any GI discomfort. Pycnogenol is the most researched brand.
Better blood flow throughout the body
Better skin elasticity and reduced signs of aging
Better memory and attention
Occasional stomach discomfort in some users
Limited data; consult healthcare provider
Consult physician due to immune effects
May have mild antiplatelet effects; monitor if combining — may affect platelet aggregation or vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, altering anticoagulant efficacy
May affect immune function; consult physician
Tip: Take with food
Tip: May be related to blood flow changes; temporary
Top studies from 38+ peer-reviewed papers
Martinez-Zapata MJ et al. • The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2020)
“There is moderate-certainty evidence that phlebotonics probably reduce oedema slightly, compared to placebo; moderate-certainty evidence of little or no difference in QoL; and low-certainty evidence that these drugs do not influence ulcer healing.”
Robertson NU et al. • The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2020)
“Small sample sizes, limited numbers of RCTs per condition, variation in outcome measures, and poor reporting of the included RCTs mean no definitive conclusions regarding the efficacy or safety of pine bark extract supplements are possible.”
Pourmasoumi M et al. • Phytotherapy research : PTR (2020)
“Further, high quality randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm this result.”
Hadi A et al. • Phytotherapy research : PTR (2019)
“Since there are few phytochemicals that have a significant increasing effect on HDL-C levels, pycnogenol may have important role in prevention of cardiovascular diseases.”
Schoonees A et al. • The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2012)
“Current evidence is insufficient to support Pycnogenol(®) use for the treatment of any chronic disorder.”
What would you like to do next?
Green Tea Extract
9/10Concentrated catechins from green tea that support metabolism, fat oxidation, brain health, and antioxidant defense.
Curcumin
9/10Turmeric's active compound that modulates NF-kB inflammatory pathways — supports mood, joint health, and post-exercise recovery.
Sage
7.8/10A Mediterranean herb with rosmarinic acid and salvianolic compounds that support cognitive function, menopausal symptom relief, and metabolic health through antioxidant and cholinergic mechanisms.
Grape Seed Extract
7.5/10Rich source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) that support circulation, skin health, and antioxidant defense.
Tap node to isolate • Pinch to zoom • Tap edge for research