Pycnogenol: this term refers to one of the most effective antioxidant complexes present in nature.
Index
- Piconogenol, what exactly is it?
- The antioxidant power of pycnogenol
- Pycnogenol for skin protection and health
- When to take it
- Other properties of Pycnogenol
- For the circulatory system
- For eye health
- Pycnogenol, Contraindications and Side Effects
- Insights and scientific studies
Piconogenol, what exactly is it?
Pycnogenol is a mixture of proanthocyanidins extracted from the bark of a particular maritime pine , Pinus pinaster, located on the French coast of the Bay of Biscay, on the Atlantic Ocean .
Oligomeric proanthocyanidins , phenolic acids, catechins and taxifolin are part of the concentration of bioflavonoids that this powerful compound contains, in addition to the presence of caffeic and ferulic acids that act synergistically to strengthen its already notable antioxidant action.
The antioxidant power of pycnogenol
An antioxidant is a substance capable of performing a scavenger action against waste , toxins and free radicals such as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which, if present in excess, can cause discomfort and damage to the entire organism .
The antioxidant effect of Pycnogenol is also expressed through the regeneration of vitamins C and E in addition to glutathione , considered the most powerful enzyme complex at the liver level. Given this strong action, it is used in traditional Chinese medicine as an adjuvant in problems related to oxidative stress and to restore cellular homeostasis by promoting the detoxification process at the liver level .
Pycnogenol for skin protection and health
Pycnogenol is widely used in various contexts, boasting numerous virtues such as antiplatelet, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory and able to reduce cell proliferation. One of its most interesting actions, however, concerns that on the skin .
At the skin level, it is able to protect the skin by inhibiting the degradation of collagenase and elastase enzymes, thus strengthening the elasticity and tone of the dermis. One of the interesting characteristics of pycnogenol is in fact that of stimulating the production of hyaluronic acid, a substance that hydrates the skin and prevents the formation of wrinkles. Precisely because of this important effect, it is recommended not only as an anti-aging product, but especially in the summer season to protect the skin from UV radiation .
When to take it
In this case, it is recommended to take Pycnogenol at least one month before sun exposure, especially for those who burn easily or are prone to sunburn and irritation . It is also very effective in cases of melasma, leading to a reduction in the intensity and extent of pigmentation. But its effect is not limited only to protecting the skin from solar rays.
Pinomar Pycnogenol – 60 Capsules
Pycnogenol in capsules with extracts of French Maritime Pine, Blueberry, Grape berries
Natural Health
It can be taken by those subjects who have dermatological problems related to an allergic or histamine-releasing component such as in cases of psoriasis or atopic dermatitis.
Its use is also interesting in the field of allergies. In fact, proanthocyanidins have the ability to inhibit the release of histamine, a substance implicated in hypersensitivity reactions and adverse reactions to food.
It has proven to be particularly useful in asthmatic subjects or those with allergies to certain foods or pollens, thanks to the anti-inflammatory and inhibitory activity of pycnogenol on the release of leukotrienes.
Other properties of Pycnogenol
For the circulatory system
Pycnogenol is also a truly valid aid for the circulatory system : proanthocyanidins are able to improve peripheral circulation by performing a strengthening action on the vessel walls, increasing tone. For this reason, it is recommended in those cases linked to poor circulation, such as
- sensation of painful and heavy legs ,
- capillary fragility and phlebitis,
- venous insufficiency,
- varicose veins ,
- hemorrhoids,
- edema,
- chilblains,
- and as an antiplatelet agent.
For eye health
Even retinal disorders and macular degeneration can be supported by the intake of this powerful complex, since it acts effectively on the circulation, even peripheral.
It can also be recommended to athletes as pycnogenol has the ability to improve elasticity and thus reduce recovery times.
Pycnogenol, Contraindications and Side Effects
Given that it is always necessary to consult a doctor, there are no significant side effects reported in literature; caution should be exercised during pregnancy and breastfeeding and if the subject is taking immunosuppressive drugs as pycnogenol could interfere.
