What is Pine Bark?
Pine bark extract is a natural botanical ingredient derived primarily from the bark of the French maritime pine tree (Pinus pinaster). It is valued for its high concentration of bioactive plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties such as proanthocyanidins, flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Health Benefits:
Antioxidant Action
The potent antioxidant ability of pine bark is well evidenced and can provide highly valuable health benefits through reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to ageing and the development of various chronic diseases. One study found that pine bark extract showed an impressive free radical scavenging ability and significantly inhibited free radical-induced low-density lipoprotein oxidation. A further study found that following 6 weeks of supplementation with a pine bark extract, there was a significant increase in plasma polyphenol levels and antioxidant effects were demonstrated.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Pine bark has been shown to provide cardiometabolic health benefits as it may help maintain normal blood pressure and support healthy cholesterol levels. Research has shown pine bark extract supplementation can ameliorate cardiometabolic risk factors, for instance it can significantly reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, decrease fasting blood sugar levels and lead to reduced body weight. One study further evidenced the benefits of pine bark by showing significant decreases in total cholesterol levels following pine bark supplementation.
History:
Pine bark has a long history of traditional use, for instance the Ancient Greek and Indigenous peoples of North America reportedly used pine bark preparations for wound healing and inflammatory conditions. Later, following the identification of the rich proanthocyanidin content of pine bark, interest in its use to provide health benefits grew.
Typical Use:
Pine bark extract is most commonly consumed as a capsule or tablet supplement, and is sometimes included in powdered blends or functional formulations. Such supplements containing pine bark commonly combine it with other ingredients such as vitamin C, collagen, or other polyphenols for synergistic benefits.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11847364/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12530550/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25458248/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229921000303
