Benefits
Antioxidant defense
French maritime pine bark is rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), among the most potent plant antioxidants, protecting cells and blood vessels.
Circulation and vascular support
Pine bark OPCs are studied for supporting healthy blood-vessel function and circulation, including cardiometabolic markers.
Skin and recovery support
By countering oxidative stress, pine bark OPCs are also studied for skin and recovery support.
Mechanism of action
OPC antioxidant action
Pine bark proanthocyanidins scavenge free radicals and support the body's antioxidant enzymes, protecting blood vessels and tissues.
Nitric-oxide support
Pine bark OPCs support nitric-oxide-mediated blood-vessel relaxation, aiding healthy circulation.
Clinical trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark) on cardiometabolic health. (Malekahmadi et al. 2019, Pharmacological Research)
Adults across multiple trials.
Pine bark extract supported cardiometabolic markers; the authors noted that larger trials are warranted.