Pine Bark Extract

150mg

RCT-validated for both cognitive and cardiovascular outcomes. Synergises with Grape Seed Extract via the endothelial NO pathway. Pycnogenol is the most-studied branded form, used across published clinical trials.

Category Cardiovascular
Dose 150mg
Form Pinus pinaster - ≥65% procyanidins
Evidence Level Strong - Pycnogenol human RCTs

Mechanism

Pine bark extract from Pinus pinaster is standardised for procyanidins - the same class of compounds in grape seed OPCs, but with distinct oligomeric profiles. Procyanidins support endothelial function via the NO pathway and have been studied in human RCTs for cognitive function, attention (ADHD), and vascular health under the branded form Pycnogenol.

The cognitive effects are particularly well-documented: Ryan et al. (2008) demonstrated significant improvements in spatial working memory in young adults after 3 months of Pycnogenol supplementation. These effects are thought to be mediated by improved cerebrovascular blood flow via enhanced NO bioavailability.

Key Benefits

  • Most-studied under the branded form Pycnogenol
  • Standardised to ≥65% procyanidins by UV-Vis
  • Synergistic with Grape Seed Extract (shared endothelial NO pathway)
  • Supports nitric oxide bioavailability
  • ≥65% procyanidin standardisation

The Research

Peer-reviewed human trials supporting this ingredient at this dose.

Ryan J, et al. (2008). J Psychopharmacol. 22(5):553-62.An examination of the effects of the antioxidant Pycnogenol on cognitive performance, serum lipid profile, endocrinological and oxidative stress biomarkers in an elderly population.PubMed →
Luzzi R, et al. (2011). Panminerva Med. 53(3 Suppl 1):75-82.Pycnogenol® supplementation improves cognitive function, attention and mental performance in students.PubMed →
Belcaro G, et al. (2024). Minerva Med. advance access.Prevention of jet lag symptoms and temporary impairment of cognitive function with Pycnogenol® in healthy individuals and in hypertensives.PubMed →
In the formula

Pine Bark Extract

150mg

Pinus pinaster - ≥65% procyanidins

When to take it

Any time of day with food.

Works well with

Cardiovascular Grape Seed Extract 200mg Cardiovascular Algal DHA 250mg DHA Cognitive & Stress L-Theanine 200mg
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