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Question

I am a 41 years old woman and have been taking the Pine Bark Extract for
about 2 years (1 tablet a day).Would need your expert advice on whether the claim that " Pine Bark Extract" as the most powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger ever discovered....is true.It is advisable to take for long term........?Appreciate your valued advice on this matter. Thanks in advance

Answer

Based on laboratory tests, pycnogenol (pine bark extract) is considered a good antioxidant[1]. However, it is important to note that superior results in laboratory studies may not lead to similar beneficial effects in the human body.   

In some studies with human as test subjects, pine bark extract has been shown to help relieve swelling and pain associated with poor blood circulation in the legs; and to prevent damage to blood vessels in the eyes. There is also evidence to support its use in enhancing exercise capacity.

However, less evidence is available for uses such as symptom relieve for heart disease, cholesterol lowering, abdominal pain relieve from endometriosis, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Further research is needed before these and other possible uses of pine bark extract is recommended.

Other than nausea, few side effects have been linked to the use of pine bark extract. However, there is not enough information available to determine if pycnogenol has other short or long term side effects. You should not take pine bark extract if you are taking immunosuppressive medicines, corticosteroids, or if you have conditions whereby your immune system attacks your own body because of the effects pine bark have on the immune system.

Source: Katrina Eng, Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore

More information and advice can be obtained from your pharmacist. Send your questions to sthealth@sph.com.sg.