Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract)

Pycnogenol is the patented standardized extract of French maritime pine bark, dominated by oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs).

Mechanism — Boosts endothelial nitric oxide production, reduces oxidative stress, inhibits platelet aggregation, and modulates inflammatory cytokines. Synergistic with L-arginine and L-citrulline.

Use case — Vascular function, ED (with L-arginine), venous insufficiency, mild cognitive support. Typical 100-200 mg/day.

Caveats — Generic pine bark extracts vary wildly in potency. The Pycnogenol brand has the trial data — generic OPC supplements may not equal it. Mild blood-thinning effect; coordinate with anticoagulant use.