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Pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark)
Patented pine bark extract with over 400 studies supporting benefits for circulation, skin, cognitive function, and joint health.
What the evidence says
Pycnogenol appears to help in 10 of 13 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2000–2025 with a typical study size of 540 participants.
Based on 39 studies · 22 meta-analyses · 13 RCTs · 27,881 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Pycnogenol has an evidence score of 8/10 — strong evidence based on 39 indexed studies, including 19 meta-analyses. Patented pine bark extract with over 400 studies supporting benefits for circulation, skin, cognitive function, and joint health.
The commonly studied dose of Pycnogenol is 50-200mg. Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 150mg, with a minimum effective dose near 100mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Pycnogenol is with meals. Taking it with food is preferred. Pycnogenol is a patented extract from French maritime pine bark (Pinus pinaster) standardized to 65-75% procyanidins.
Nicotinamide Riboside
Mostly mechanism / observationalA vitamin B3 precursor that efficiently raises cellular NAD+ levels, supporting energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and healthy aging.
Berberine
Likely helpsActivates AMPK to regulate blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and support lipid metabolism — comparable to metformin in some trials.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 39 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Pycnogenol is a standardized extract from French maritime pine bark, rich in procyanidins similar to grape seed. It's one of the most researched botanical supplements with over 400 published studies. Evidence supports benefits for circulation, venous insufficiency, skin health, cognitive function, ADHD, and joint mobility.
Supports blood vessel health
Binds to and protects collagen and elastin
Powerful free radical scavenging
How Pycnogenol 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.
50-200mg
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Pycnogenol brand (standardized to 65-75% procyanidins) | Recommended |
| 💊Generic pine bark extract | Alternative |
Pycnogenol is a specific patented extract with the most research. Generic pine bark may vary in composition.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Can be taken any time. Often split into 2 doses.
Based on meta-analyses showing modest reductions in systolic (-3.22 mmHg) and diastolic (-1.91 mmHg) blood pressure. Evidence quality varies across studies and effect sizes are relatively small.
Better blood flow and reduced edema
Improved attention and memory
Improved skin elasticity and hydration
Limited data; avoid unless advised
Some studies in ADHD children; use under medical guidance
May have mild antiplatelet effects — may affect platelet aggregation or vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, altering anticoagulant efficacy
May have immune-modulating effects
May have blood sugar lowering effects
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Usually resolves
Tip: Reduce dose
Pycnogenol is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, headache, dizziness. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Pine allergy.
Collagen
Likely helpsHydrolyzed peptides that rebuild skin elasticity, reduce joint pain, and strengthen bone density — results build over 8-12 weeks.
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