Does Pycnogenol Work?

Before using Pycnogenol, some people may wonder if it works. Because Pycnogenol is a dietary supplement, it can be marketed without any evidence that it is safe or effective. There does, however, appear to be some scientific evidence that Pycnogenol is effective at treating asthma, chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure, and retinopathy. Pycnogenol may work for other conditions also, but more research is needed.

Pycnogenol Liquid Supplements

Does Pycnogenol Work? -- An Overview

Pycnogenol^® is a patented extract that is used in many dietary supplements. As a dietary supplement, Pycnogenol can be marketed in the United States without any evidence that it is either safe or effective. Often, the extract is claimed to work for the following conditions:

Asthma
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis)
Chronic venous insufficiency (a condition that involves leg swelling, varicose veins, pain, itching, and other skin changes)
Diabetes
Heart attacks or strokes
High blood pressure (hypertension)
High cholesterol
Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction or ED)
Leg cramps
Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea)
Male infertility
Pregnancy pains (such as back pain, pelvic pain, and leg cramps)
Retinopathy (an eye condition commonly caused by diabetes).

People also use Pycnogenol to increase athletic performance.

(Does Pycnogenol Work? Continued: Page 2)