Herb guide › Pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract)
Pycnogenol (French Maritime Pine Bark Extract)
Derived from the bark of the French maritime pine. Strongly woody and bitter taste; generally used as an extract or powder, not plain bark tea.
Traditionally used for
Poor circulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, skin aging
Potential benefits
Circulation, cognitive function, antioxidant, supports cardiovascular health, improves blood flow, anti-inflammatory, supports skin elasticity
Origin
France
How it is traditionally prepared
Typically taken as an extract supplement (50–200 mg daily). If used in tea blends: ¼–½ tsp extract powder per cup, mix into warm (not boiling) water or herbal infusion. 1x daily.
Cautions and who should avoid it
May lower blood pressure or sugar; avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding unless advised by a physician; may interact with blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or chemotherapy drugs
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