Pine Bark Extract

French Marine Pine Bark Extract; French Maritime Pine Bark Extract; Leucoanthocyanidins; Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins; OPC; PCO; Pine Bark; Pinus maritima; Pinus pinaster; Procyandiol Oligomers; Procyanodolic Oligomers; Pycnogenol; Pygenol

... The most common use of pine bark extract is to prevent and treat a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency. Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when valves in the veins that carry blood back to the heart are weak or damaged and blood collects in the veins of the legs. This collection of blood can lead to varicose veins, spider veins, or sores on the legs. Results that are more serious can include blood clots in the legs. Bioflavonoids called proanthocyanidins in pine bark extract help keep veins and other blood vessels from leaking. Because it strengthens the walls of all blood vessels, pine bark extract may also be effective for slowing retinopathy, the gradual break down of the retina in the eyes. Individuals with arteriosclerosis (a build up of fatty deposits in the arteries), diabetes, or other conditions that increase the likelihood for damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes are more likely to have serious vision problems as a result of blood vessel damage. ...

?Maritime Pine Conservation status: Least concern (LR/lc) ...