Pine Bark Extract

Pinus Pinaster

Bark, which is used from the pine trees, is thick and grows in orange, brown or red. Important not to harvest too much at once.

Illustration of a pine branch with cones and leaves on a beige background

Family: Pinaceae

Which probiotic is it in?: Men

Habit and cultivation: Coastal sands and dunes, and also mountains. Particularly in Europe, the western Mediterranean and southern Britain. Needs sun.

Actions (known for): Anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory. Cardiovascular benefits

History of Pine Bark Extract

Known to have been used originally by the indigenous peoples of North America and Asia, and since the Middle Ages in Europe, particularly for scurvy.

Parts used from the Pine Bark Extract

Bark

Constituents (bio available chemicals):

Rich in polyphenols and bioflavonoids such as procyanidins, catechins, epicatechins, phenolic acids – different species have different quantities.

Nutritional constituents:

Maritime pine was found to have high quantities of vitamin C which helps regenerate vitamin C in the body.

Indications:

Inflammatory conditions such as retinopathy and arthritis, heart disease, poor circulation and neurodegenerative conditions and some studies show it may support male fertility.

Dosage:

Average is around 120-250mg per day in capsules.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia

Cautions for therapeutic doses

No reported interaction,s but caution if on immunosuppressants, diabetic meds or blood thinners. Generally well tolerated, but a few report gastrointestinal upset, headaches and dizziness on therapeutic doses.

Back to Microbzpedia