spread over the coastal region of southwest France. This unique source of Pycnogenol® has a well established botanical monograph based on macroscopic and microscopic findings defining its characteristics, an essential feature of quality confirmation.

The healing powers of pine bark have been used for centuries. In 1534, French explorer Jacques Cartier and his crew are believed to have been nursed back to health by local natives after suffering from deadly scurvy. They drank prepared teas and other concoctions using the pine needles and tree bark to relieve the scurvy, improve wound healing and various other ailments.

Pycnogenol® represents a natural blend of genetically programmed constant proportions of bioflavonoids including catechin, epicatechin, taxifolin, monomers, dimers of catechin and epicatechin, oligomeric procyanidnins and phenolic fruit acids such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid.

The extract has four basic properties – it’s a powerful antioxidant, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, selectively binds to collagen and elastin, and finally, it aids in the production of endothelial nitric oxide which helps to vasodilate blood vessels.

Pycnogenol® has differentiated itself from other ingredients in the marketplace because of its extensive research portfolio. More than 170 published studies and review articles ensuring its safety and efficacy as an ingredient have been completed over the last 35 years. Scientific evidence on its Antioxidative Capacity and protective action on the Vascular System have been published in the most renowned scientific journals. Additional published findings have demonstrated Pycnogenol’s beneficial effects in cardiovascular health, skincare, cognitive function, diabetes health, inflammation, sports nutrition, asthma and allergy relief and menstrual disorders, among others.

Many of these applications are protected by U.S. and international patents. Today, the scientific accomplishments of Pycnogenol® remains unparalleled, especially when it comes to quality, safety and clinical evidence.

Pycnogenol® is produced by a validated manufacturing process following good agricultural practice (GAP) and good manufacturing practice (GMP). There is absolutely no application of pesticides during the growing of pine trees or toxic solvents during the manufacture of Pycnogenol, there can be no pesticide or solvent in the finished active substance.

Pycnogenol^® is certified Kosher and Halal and has earned Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) status in the USA for its applications in foods and beverages. Additionally, Pycnogenol® is a proprietary extract and is protected by several U.S. and international patents.