Viridian Organic Pine Bark Extract 30 Capsules

Pine Bark Extract was also known as Pycnogenol

Maritime Pine bark extract is a rich source of the plant flavonoids PROANTHOCYANIDINS (OPCs). The OPCs are the pigment materials which give flavour, colour and aroma to many plants and fruits. The beneficial effects of pine bark were discovered in 1534 when sailors suffering from scurvy, survived by drinking tea made from the bark and needles of pine trees. Masquelier patented the method of extracting OPCs from pine bark in France in 1951.

OPCs have been marketed in France for decades where they have been shown to improve retinopathies, venous insufficiency, and vascular fragility. Maritime Pine bark extract typical contain from 80-85% OPCs.

Pycnogenol is a patented form of maritime pine bark extract, sourced exclusively in the region of South West France between Bordeaux and Biarritz. It is one of the world’s most researched nutrients with more than 200 published studies.

Benefits of Pine Bark

COLLAGEN PROTECTION – OPCs effectively protect collagen structures in several ways. They reinforce the collagen matrix of connective tissue, protect against free radical damage, and inhibit collagen damage caused by inflammation and infection. OPCs have been shown to be effective in cases of psoriasis and the hyper-pigmentation disorder melasma (chloasma).

ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY – OPCs protect against free-radical damage, suggested to be a major cause of the ageing process. The antioxidant effect is 50 times greater than that of vitamin C and E. A major advantage of these molecules is that they are taken up into the cell membranes and protect against both water- and fat soluble free- radicals.

One of the benefits of pine bark is VENOUS SUPPORT

VISUAL FUNCTION – Clinical Studies in healthy volunteers has shown that an intake of 200mg/day of OPCs significantly improved visual performance in dark and after glare tests. A number of European studies have shown that OPCs from maritime pine bark extract, greatly improved symptoms in patients with retinopathies, maculopathies, and other visual dysfunctions.

CARDIO-PROTECTIVE – Clinical studies show OPCs protect fat and cholesterol from oxidation, thus reducing arterial damage leading to heart disease. OPCs have also been shown to lower cholesterol levels, shrink the deposits in the arteries, inhibit platelet aggregation, and inhibit angiotensin 1-converting enzyme (ACE) – much the same effect as ACE inhibitor drugs used in blood pressure regulation. Data suggests that OPC supplementation is effective in reducing systolic blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. So a great natural supplement to protect against coronary Artery Disease 

SEXUAL HEALTH / PERFORMANCE

Antioxidants in maritime Pine Bark Extract improve sperm mobility and motility. OPCs stimulate NITRIC OXIDE production in the arteries and therefore blood flow – an essential process needed for healthy male penile erection. The drug VIAGRA works in the same way through increasing nitric oxide. For optimum effects, OPCs along with ARGININE is suggested in cases of erectile dysfunction. An intake of 200mg of OPCs has been shown to improve healthy sperm by 100% in 90 days. Studies using 60mg OPCs have shown up to 80% improvements in pain reduction in those with endometriosis, period pain, and post-operative gynaecological surgery.

BRAIN FUNCTION – As well as their potent antioxidant effects, OPCs help maintain neurotransmitters functioning longer and improve the micro-circulation in the brain thus improving cognitive function.. The increase in NITRIC OXIDE may also improve learning ability and memory through its effects as a neurotransmitter. Early evidence suggests that OPCs are effective in Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD). These positive results are due to the effects of increased neurotransmitter lifespan, NO production, and improved brain micro-circulation.

RESPIRATORY FUNCTION

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 60 subjects, aged 6-18 years old, was conducted over a period of 3 months to determine the effect of Pycnogenol on mild-to-moderate asthma. Compared with subjects taking placebo, the group who took Pycnogenol had significantly more improvement in pulmonary functions and asthma symptoms. The Pycnogenol group was able to reduce or discontinue their use of rescue inhalers more often than the placebo group. There was also a significant reduction of urinary leukotrienes in the Pycnogenol group. The

results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of Pycnogenol as an adjunct in the management of mild-to-moderate childhood asthma.

Suggested Dosage of Maritime Pine Bark Extract 

It is suggested that 25-100mg OPCs will provide synergy for general antioxidant protection. Therapeutic levels are in the range of 0.5 – 1.0mg per pound of body weight. Best taken in divided doses.

Potential applications of Maritime Pine Bark Extract

Skin health / sun protection (reduces inflammation of UV exposed skin), wound healing, economy class syndrome / long car journeys, varicose veins, eye health- cataracts, retinopathy, capillary fragility, micro-vascular disorders, oedema, allergies, hypertension, atherosclerosis, elevated cholesterol, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, ADD/ADHD, anti- mutagenic (DNA protective).

Known contraindications/ Adverse effects

None known.

Organic Maritime Pine Bark Extract is sourced from remote forests of Maritime Pine Trees in the north of Finland where there is pure air and minimal human intervention. Young bark from the inner and outer layers of the Pinus sylvestris tree produce a potent extract of at least a 400:1 ratio.

A gentle water extraction process preserves the active molecules and retains the rich pine bark colour. Standardised to 70% OPCs (Oligomeric proanthocyanidins), Organic Pine Bark Extract is an ideal source of beneficial bioflavonoids.

The wild pine trees are certified organic by the Soil Association and allowed to grow naturally without the use of synthetic pesticides or other chemical sprays. Using only 100% active ingredients formulated by expert nutritionists, there are no artificial fillers and no nasties.

Key Features:

• Sourced from wild pine trees in Finland.
• Certified Organic.
• Standardised to 70% OPCs.
• 100% active ingredients with no fillers, binders or nasties.
• Vegan, never GMO, palm oil free, against animal testing, ethically made.

Directions: As a food supplement, take one to two capsules daily with food, or as directed by your healthcare professional.

One capsule provides:

Organic Pine Bark

Standardised to 70% OPCs