AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle
Look and Feel Your Best with Clinically-Studied Ingredients
Advanced DNA Repair? Enhanced Microcirculation? Immune Support and Inflammation Management? Our Bundle has it all. Get patented ingredients you cant trust for a healthier you. Order now.
Lab Tested | Gluten free | Non-GMO | Junk Free
Choose options
Protect your body from the inside out with next-level support for free-radicals on oxidative stress!
Introducing the AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle – the perfect solution for savvy customers like you who are serious about elevating their skin health, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, longevity, while reducing oxidative stress.
Benefits at a glance:
- Skin Health: Enhances collagen synthesis, improves elasticity, hydration, and pigmentation, prevents photo-aging, while reducing oxidative stress in all skin layers, reducing wrinkles, inflammation, and fatigue.
- Internal Sunscreen: Safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Antioxidant & Blood Sugar: Supports healthy glucose levels and lowers oxidative stress, promoting healthy cellular, tissue, and organ function.
- Brain Health: Enhances cognitive function, memory, mental agility, and reduces test anxiety.
- Immune Function: Strengthens and balances the immune system, promotes healthy immune function, defends immune cells against oxidative stress, and supports a healthy response to inflammation.
- Heart Health: Promotes healthy circulatory and endothelial function, boosts nitric oxide levels, improves cardiovascular health, lowers oxidative stress and inflammation, and supports a healthy blood lipid profile.
- Muscle Endurance: Enhances muscle function, boosts aerobic power, improves blood flow, reduces lactic acid build-up, and decreases fatigue.
- Vision Support & Eye Health: Enhances capillary blood flow, reduces eye fatigue, and reduces oxidative stress on the ciliary muscle, promoting healthy eye function and supporting vision.
- Blue Light Protection: Protect your eyes from daily exposure to blue light emitted by smart devices, TVs, and computer screens.
Bundle Overview:
What is the AstaReal + Pycnogenol Bundle and what are the benefits of the two ingredients included in it?
The AstaReal + Pycnogenol® Bundle is a combination of two powerful ingredients: AstaReal® astaxanthin and Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract, both of which have a long history of clinical research. Together they are backed more than 300 combined clinical studies, including hundreds of human clinical trials. The bundle offers at least 15 health benefits to promote beauty from within, boost performance, and combat accelerated aging, and more.
AstaReal® natural astaxanthin extract improves memory, mental quickness, multitasking and learning—and delivering 6000x the antioxidant capacity of vitamin C. It also helps optimize the health and radiance of the skin by delivering powerful protection and support to all layers and promotes gastric health.
Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract improves cognitive function, enhances numerical and spatial working memory, and improves memory and test scores in college students. It stimulates collagen synthesis and enhances skin elasticity while decreasing skin fatigue. It also protects the skin and limits photo-aging, supports healthy blood sugar levels, and enhances vision health.
Why Should I Get the AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle?
If you are looking for supplements to support your skin health, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, longevity, and health span, you may want to consider the AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle.
Our AstaReal® 12 mg One-a-day astaxanthin supplement is a powerful antioxidant that can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in all skin layers, resulting in revitalized and more radiant skin. It can also improve skin microtexture, reduce the size of wrinkles, and enhance capillary circulation and collagen layers, resulting in improved elasticity in the skin.
In addition to supporting skin health, AstaReal® can also enhance cognitive function, boost cardiovascular health, support immune health, and promote a healthy inflammation response.
Pycnogenol® French Maritime Pine Bark Extract can further enhance your skin’s natural beauty, enhance immune and cognitive function, and support cardiovascular health. It stimulates the synthesis of new collagen in the skin, increases skin elasticity, reduces skin fatigue and increased hyaluronic acid production, resulting in moisturized, even, and bright-looking skin.
Both supplements are scientifically studied for healthy skin, longevity, and vascular health, and are lab tested, gluten-free, non-GMO, and junk-free. By taking the AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle, you can boost your overall health and well-being, support your skin’s natural beauty, and reduce the effects of aging on your body.
Bundle Benefits:Want to take a deeper dive? Read on!
The AstaReal® + Pycnogenol® Bundle includes two ingredients: AstaReal® and Pycnogenol®. These ingredients have a long history of clinical research and have been studied in a combined 300 clinical studies including more than 70 human clinical trials.
Our convenient, one-a-day supplements deliver effective, science-based dosages to ensure potency, Our AstaReal® comes in at a full 12 mg per serving, and Pycnogenol® provides 100 mg per capsule.
When taken daily, these 2 versatile supplements offer at least 15 health benefits that can help combat accelerated aging, boost performance, and promote beauty from within for women and men.
Anti-Aging & Health Span
Our AstaReal + Pycnogenol Bundle is more than just an advanced solution for skin care. AstaReal® and Pycnogenol® scavenge for free radicals and promote blood flow to keep you feeling and performing your best.
- Promote cellular health
- Supports a healthy response to inflammation
- Enhance free radical scavenging activity
Antioxidant & Blood Sugar
Pycnogenol® has demonstrated an ability to help maintain already-healthy glucose levels. It also bolsters the body’s antioxidant defenses with powerful phytonutrient compounds that inhibit the free-radical activity that can damage cells, tissue, organs, and DNA, as well as inhibit stress on delicate vascular walls and more. AstaReal® Astaxanthin is one of nature’s most potent free radical scavengers, having 6000x the potency of vitamin-C.
- Promotes healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range
- Inhibits free-radical activity
Brain & Cognitive Function
AstaReal®, and Pycnogenol® have various positive physiological effects on the brain.
Randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have demonstrated that 3-months of supplementation with our patented natural astaxanthin extract (12mg/daily) boosted blood flow, improved memory, and mental quickness, and also improved multitasking and accelerated learning in seniors.
While Research reveals that Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract improves cognitive function, helping to enhance numerical and spatial working memory. Pycnogenol® was also found to improve memory and test scores in college students, improving mental performance while decreasing test anxiety by 17%.
- Improve memory, alertness, multitasking, and age-related forgetfulness
- Lower the oxidation of red blood cells, boosting brain health
- Increase capillary blood flow and blood antioxidant quality
Collagen, Hair, Nails, & Skin
AstaReal® natural astaxanthin helps to optimize the health and radiance of your skin by delivering powerful protection and support to all layers.
Pycnogenol® has been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and to enhance skin elasticity while decreasing skin fatigue. Pycnogenol® has also demonstrated an ability to elevate hyaluronic acid production and moisturize the skin. It also inhibits the breakdown of collagen and elastin and limits photo-aging to help protect your skin while reducing pigmentation for a bright and even complexion.
- Promotes hyaluronic acid production
- Reinvigorates photoaged skin
- Soothes inflammation in all layers of skin
- Reduces the size of wrinkles
- Improves skin microtexture
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Promotes bright and even complexion
Digestion & GI Health
Gut health is the foundation for wellness, but the digestive system is the most sensitive organ in the human body. Clinical research has shown that supplementation with AstaReal® natural astaxanthin can promote gastric health by helping your body relieve gastrointestinal discomfort, protect against stomach ulcers, and balance the gut’s microbiome.
- Supports your body’s response to gastric inflammation
- Promotes microbial balance
- Eases digestive discomfort
Hearing & Vision Health
Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementation with AstaReal® astaxanthin can improve the discomfort linked to Computer Vision Syndrome, such as blurred vision, eye fatigue, and eye irritation. Research has also shown that AstaReal® supplementation improves eye fatigue by quenching cellular inflammation resulting from prolonged visual stress and ciliary muscle tension.
Pycnogenol® supports eye health by acting as a potent free radical scavenger. Research has shown that Pycnogenol® outduels vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10, lipoic acid, and grape seed extract with its astonishing ability to protect retinal lipids. Studies indicate that Pycnogenol® strengthens and protects retinal capillaries and enhances the endothelial function of the retinal microvessels—supporting micro-circulation in the retina.
- Combats computer eye strain and eye fatigue
- Enhances capillary blood flow
- Promotes a healthy response to inflammation of the ciliary muscle
Heart, Veins & Circulation
Get Natural Cardiovascular Support with AstaReal® and Pycnogenol®
A growing body of clinical research has shown that AstaReal® natural astaxanthin can help to improve cardiovascular health. Studies have demonstrated that our patented astaxanthin lowers oxidative stress and inflammation, enhances blood flow in capillaries and improves lipid profiles.
Pycnogenol® supports endothelial and arterial health by helping to inhibit inflammatory factors called cytokines. It also encourages healthy nitric oxide levels in the arteries, which supports endothelial function and arterial blood flow and has been shown to promote a healthy inflammatory response and platelet function.
- Increases capillary circulation
- Promotes a healthy blood lipid profile
- Lowers oxidative stress
Immune Support
Like all of your body’s systems, the immune system functions better with added protection. AstaReal® significantly helps to balance and strengthen the immune system—improving its ability to defend the body against disease and illness and suppressing overactive immune responses that can result in undesirable inflammation.
Research has shown that Pycnogenol® helps your body combat inflammation and normalize immune response by lowering the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-ĸB)—the immune cell that triggers inflammation.
- Promotes a faster immune response
- Balances and strengthens immune function
- Boosts antibody production
- Defends immune cells against oxidative stress
Inflammation Response
Pycnogenol® contains several phenolic compounds, including ferulic acid, caffeic acid, catechin, and taxifolin, which have been shown to have potent free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Promotes a healthy response to inflammation
Joint, Mobility & Bone Health
Maintaining healthy joints is important because it allows for pain-free movement and mobility, which can improve quality of life.
Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract has been shown to promote joint mobility and flexibility and naturally relieve joint aching by inhibiting inflammation and reducing inflammatory markers. By consuming Pycnogenol®, individuals with arthritic joints may experience less pain, reduced need for medication, and improved joint function.
- Supports joint mobility
- Promotes a healthy response to inflammation
Men’s Health
Research has shown that supplementation with Pycnogenol® significantly improves erectile function by 45 percent. The resulting arterial relaxation supports healthy erectile function by helping fill the corpus cavernosum with blood.
A study comprising 75 healthy men suggests that supplementation with Pycnogenol® may help counteract benign prostate enlargement and help facilitate emptying of the bladder after 60 days of supplementation.
- Promotes healthy erectile function
- Supports prostate health
Oral Care & Gum Health
Pycnogenol® is a standardized French maritime pine bark extract that has been extensively researched for its oral and dental health benefits. It is a potent antioxidant and can be applied in various commercial products globally displaying numerous and complex health contributions to the oral cavity.
- Inhibits bacterial growth of bacteria involved in cavities and, gingivitis
- Inhibits plaque formation
- Promotes healthy oral flora composition
- Decreases gum bleeding
- Diminishes oral malodor
Respiratory, Allergy & Sinus
Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract appears to have potential in managing respiratory symptoms by reducing inflammation, inhibiting histamine release, and promoting easier breathing.
- Promotes healthy inflammation response
- Inhibits histamine release
Sports & Active Lifestyle
Research from several clinical trials suggests that Pycnogenol® supports an active lifestyle by protecting muscles from harm during activity, enhancing performance and endurance, speeding up recovery, and getting you back in action faster.
Peer-reviewed research also shows Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract may be effective in curbing muscle loss that occurs with aging. It helps stabilize muscles through this natural process—supporting muscular function and endurance.
AstaReal® astaxanthin radically improves muscle endurance by supporting muscle function and boosting aerobic power. Our patented astaxanthin both scavenges for free radicals and improves your body’s response to inflammation. Studies show AstaReal® has also been found to lower lactic acid build-up and decrease fatigue.
- Improves muscle endurance and recovery
- Reduces lactic acid build-up and fatigue
- Decreases muscle damage and inflammation
- Enhances blood flow and improves the quality of red blood cells
- Increases fat metabolism by improving mitochondria function
- Boosts physical endurance
- Supports recovery from exercise
- Enhances the effect of exercise training
- Promotes fat utilization for sustained energy
- Supports mitochondrial function during physical activity
- Supports aging muscles
Women’s Health
Research has shown Pycnogenol® helps reduce abdominal discomfort and cramping in women experiencing difficult menstrual periods by 80 percent and cramping by 77 percent respectively.
Supplementation with Pycnogenol® was shown to help decrease tenderness during menstruation after just one month and provided further relief after the second month.
Studies also reveal Pycnogenol® naturally reduces hot flashes, depression, panic attacks, and other common manifestations associated with women entering menopause transition.
- Provides support for menopausal women
- Reduces abdominal discomfort and tenderness during menstruation
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Want to know more?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AstaReal® Natural Astaxanthin Extract
AstaReal® is a patented extract of the aquatic carotenoid, natural astaxanthin, and is the only evidence-based, non-synthetic astaxanthin extract
Yes, AstaReal®, the patented extract of natural astaxanthin is the subject of 150 clinical studies and 70 human clinical trials showing its versatility as a tool for health optimization with several benefits.
Yes, AstaReal is produced in the USA in a cGMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) facility.
No. Proof Vitality only uses AstaReal®, a lab-tested, natural extract of astaxanthin.Other brands cut costs using synthetic astaxanthin produced from petrochemicals through chemical synthesis. But the natural astaxanthin found in nature, produced by algae and other organisms, is safer and more effective.
The key difference between the two forms is that over 95% of natural astaxanthin molecules are esterified, allowing it to protect your cell membranes in ways synthetic astaxanthin cannot.
Additionally, natural astaxanthin has potentially higher bioavailability and more biological functions, making it preferable for supplementation. As awareness about its health benefits continues to grow, the demand for natural astaxanthin is skyrocketing due to its proven safety and efficacy.
AstaReal® Astaxanthin offers a range of health benefits for overall well-being. Its ability to balance and strengthen the immune system leads to a faster immune response and an enhanced response to inflammation.
Our natural astaxanthin also improves muscle endurance, brain health, vision, digestive function, skin health, and cardiovascular function by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and decreasing oxidative stress.
AstaReal® Astaxanthin offers versatile support for a healthy lifestyle with several clinically demonstrated benefits.
AstaReal® Astaxanthin is a premium-quality supplement sourced from non-GMO Haematococcus pluvialis freshwater microalgae. To create this product, the best astaxanthin-producing cells were selectively bred from hand-selected original cells. The microalgae are cultivated in indoor bioreactors under carefully controlled conditions that include optimal lighting and nutrition for each growth phase. This sophisticated biotechnology is exclusive to AstaReal® and sets itself apart from the competitors, who cannot easily replicate this patented process.
AstaReal® is produced in a facility that has received GMP registration from NSF International, indicating compliance with FDA regulations for manufacturing dietary supplements.Adhering to GMP guidelines ensures consistent production and labeling and is the gold standard of high-quality products.
AstaReal® has over 30 years of R&D and been studied in over 70 human clinical studies, revealing various health benefits. Additionally, it’s undergone over 40 safety studies with no reported adverse events
Yes. AstaReal® is the leader in astaxanthin patents for both human and animal health.
No. AstaReal® does not contain synthetic ingredients.
At present, our astaxanthin extract is vegan, but our softgels are not vegan. We currently use softgels, because have been demonstrated to effectively preserve the quality and integrity of the oil. However, we are actively seeking a vegan alternative that will not compromise the natural astaxanthin extract that we use.
Yes. AstaReal® is a high-quality natural astaxanthin extract produced safely and sustainably under strict food safety guidelines that include thorough hazard assessments. Additionally, all suppliers and sub-contractors must meet AstaReal®’s standards for social responsibility, climate, environment, and governance. Furthermore, AstaReal® purchases climate-neutral and environmentally certified green electricity from hydropower to reduce their carbon footprint.
Pycnogenol® French Maritime Pine Bark Extract
Pycnogenol® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine trees that grow along the coast of southwest France.
Pycnogenol® has been extensively studied for over 40 years to establish its safety, efficacy and quality. It is a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and phenolic acids that offer a wide range of natural health benefits.
With over 160 clinical trials and 450 scientific publications, Pycnogenol® has been proven to be a safe and effective ingredient for men and women.
Yes. Pycnogenol® sets the bar for evidence-based supplements with over 150 clinical studies and more than 60 human trials.
Pycnogenol®’s versatility stems from its ability to boost your body’s antioxidant defenses. It inhibits the free-radical activity that can harm your cells, tissue, organs and even DNA. Pycnogenol® also supports healthy glucose metabolism and has been shown to help maintain already-healthy blood sugar levels.
Our Pycnogenol® capsules are size “1” ( approximately 0.76 inches in length and 0.27 inches in width).
Not necessarily. Pycnogenol® French Maritime Pine Bark extract is best taken in the morning and can be taken with or without food.
Although most pine bark extracts on the market are counterfeit products of China, Pycnogenol® dried French Maritime pine extract is sourced and sustainably produced in France.
No. Based on 40 years of research and over 230 scientific articles and clinical trials, it is unlikely to be a concern if Pycnogenol® were taken longer than 6 months. Toxicity test results have shown that Pycnogenol® is safe and well-tolerated, even at high doses over long periods.
Proof Vitality only offers well-researched, clinically studied ingredients in evidence-based dosages. Our patented and trademarked Pycnogenol® is a clinically validated, science-based health solution with more than 450 scientific publications. Our patented Pycnogenol® is sourced and produced exclusively France, not China.
No, Pycnogenol® does not appear to exhibit any phytoestrogen-like activities, although it has been shown to help alleviate some of the natural side effects of menopause.
It is unlikely to be a concern if combined with other products. We have not identified any known interactions between Pycnogenol® and any other dietary supplement.
We suggest discussing this decision with your health care practitioner if you take any prescription medication. However, there is no indication that Pycnogenol® would negatively interact with prescription medications based on the rigorous review of the scientific literature.
After reviewing extensive literature, we have not identified any side effects associated with taking Pycnogenol®.
References
AstaReal® References
Skin Health
1. Tominaga K, Hongo N, Karato M, Yamashita E. Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects. Acta Biochim Pol. 2012;59(1):43-7. Epub 2012 Mar 17. PMID: 22428137
2. Phetcharat L, Wongsuphasawat K, Winther K. The effectiveness of a standardized rose hip powder, containing seeds and shells of Rosa canina, on cell longevity, skin wrinkles, moisture, and elasticity. Clin Interv Aging. 2015 Nov 19;10:1849-56. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S90092. PMID: 26604725; PMCID: PMC4655903.
Antioxidant Support
3. Hashimoto H, Arai K, Takahashi J, Chikuda M. The effect of aging on the antioxidative activity of astaxanthin in human aqueous humor. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2021 Mar;68(2):169-172. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.20-87. Epub 2020 Sep 17. PMID: 33879969; PMCID: PMC8046000.
4. Hashimoto H, Arai K, Takahashi J, Chikuda M. Effects of astaxanthin on VEGF level and antioxidation in human aqueous humor: difference by sex. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2019 Jul;65(1):47-51. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.18-110. Epub 2019 Apr 18. PMID: 31379413; PMCID: PMC6667389.
5. Hashimoto H, Arai K, Hayashi S, Okamoto H, Takahashi J, Chikuda M. The effect of astaxanthin on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels and peroxidation reactions in the aqueous humor. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2016 Jul;59(1):10-5. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.15-137. Epub 2016 May 21. PMID: 27499573; PMCID: PMC4933686.
6. Hashimoto H, Arai K, Hayashi S, Okamoto H, Takahashi J, Chikuda M, Obara Y. Effects of astaxanthin on antioxidation in human aqueous humor. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2013 Jul;53(1):1-7. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.13-6. Epub 2013 May 18. PMID: 23874063; PMCID: PMC3705160.
Brain Health & Cognitive Function
7. Ito N, Saito H, Seki S, Ueda F, Asada T. Effects of Composite Supplement Containing Astaxanthin and Sesamin on Cognitive Functions in People with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Alzheimers Dis. 2018;62(4):1767-1775. doi: 10.3233/JAD-170969. Erratum in: J Alzheimers Dis. 2019;68(2):839. PMID: 29614679; PMCID: PMC5900571.
8. Imai A, Oda Y, Ito N, Seki S, Nakagawa K, Miyazawa T, Ueda F. Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Astaxanthin and Sesamin on Daily Fatigue: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Way Crossover Study. Nutrients. 2018 Feb 28;10(3):281. doi: 10.3390/nu10030281. PMID: 29495607; PMCID: PMC5872699.
Active Lifestyle, Muscle & Sports Performance
9. Baralic I, Andjelkovic M, Djordjevic B, Dikic N, Radivojevic N, Suzin-Zivkovic V, Radojevic-Skodric S, Pejic S. Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Salivary IgA, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Young Soccer Players. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:783761. doi: 10.1155/2015/783761. Epub 2015 Jun 18. PMID: 26167194; PMCID: PMC4488551.
10. Wong SK, Ima-Nirwana S, Chin KY. Effects of astaxanthin on the protection of muscle health (Review). Exp Ther Med. 2020 Oct;20(4):2941-2952. doi: 10.3892/etm.2020.9075. Epub 2020 Jul 29. PMID: 32855659; PMCID: PMC7444411.
Immune & Gut Health
11. Baralic I, Andjelkovic M, Djordjevic B, Dikic N, Radivojevic N, Suzin-Zivkovic V, Radojevic-Skodric S, Pejic S. Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Salivary IgA, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Young Soccer Players. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:783761. doi: 10.1155/2015/783761. Epub 2015 Jun 18. PMID: 26167194; PMCID: PMC4488551.
12. Park JS, Chyun JH, Kim YK, Line LL, Chew BP. Astaxanthin decreased oxidative stress and inflammation and enhanced immune response in humans. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2010 Mar 5;7:18. doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-7-18. PMID: 20205737; PMCID: PMC2845588.
13. Wu L, Lyu Y, Srinivasagan R, Wu J, Ojo B, Tang M, El-Rassi GD, Metzinger K, Smith BJ, Lucas EA, Clarke SL, Chowanadisai W, Shen X, He H, Conway T, von Lintig J, Lin D. Astaxanthin-Shifted Gut Microbiota Is Associated with Inflammation and Metabolic Homeostasis in Mice. J Nutr. 2020 Oct 12;150(10):2687-2698. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxaa222. PMID: 32810865; PMCID: PMC8023541.
Eye Health & Vision
14. Saito M, Yoshida K, Saito W, Fujiya A, Ohgami K, Kitaichi N, Tsukahara H, Ishida S, Ohno S. Astaxanthin increases choroidal blood flow velocity. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2012 Feb;250(2):239-45. doi: 10.1007/s00417-011-1843-1. Epub 2011 Nov 10. PMID: 22072378.
Cardiovascular Health
14. Miyawaki H, Takahashi J, Tsukahara H, Takehara I. Effects of astaxanthin on human blood rheology. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2008 Sep;43(2):69-74. doi: 10.3164/jcbn.2008048. PMID: 18818755; PMCID: PMC2533721.
15. Iwabayashi, M., Fujioka, N., Nomoto, K., Miyazaki, R., Takahashi, H., Hibino, S., Takahashi, Y., Nishikawa, K., Nishida, M., & Yonei, Y. (2009). Efficacy and safety of eight-week treatment with astaxanthin in individuals screened for increased oxidative stress burden. Anti-Aging Medicine, 6(4), 15–21. https://doi.org/10.3793/jaam.6.15
16. Tsukahara, H., Koikeda, T., Arai, T., Hayashi, H., Ohno, S., & Suzuki, N. (2008). Supplementation Effect of Astaxanthin on Blood Flow and Shoulder Stiffness -A Preliminary Pilot Study-. Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1625/jcam.5.49
Pycnogenol® References
Skin Health, Anti-Aging, Beauty From Within
1. Belcaro G, Luzzi R, Hu S, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Ippolito E, Corsi M, Caporale S. Improvement in signs and symptoms in psoriasis patients with Pycnogenol® supplementation. Panminerva Med. 2014 Mar;56(1):41-8. PMID: 24637472.
2. Marini A, Grether-Beck S, Jaenicke T, Weber M, Burki C, Formann P, Brenden H, Schönlau F, Krutmann J. Pycnogenol® effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2012;25(2):86-92. doi: 10.1159/000335261. Epub 2012 Jan 21. PMID: 22270036.
3. Ni Z, Mu Y, Gulati O. Treatment of melasma with Pycnogenol. Phytother Res. 2002 Sep;16(6):567-71. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1085. PMID: 12237816.
4. Saliou C, Rimbach G, Moini H, McLaughlin L, Hosseini S, Lee J, Watson RR, Packer L. Solar ultraviolet-induced erythema in human skin and nuclear factor-kappa-B-dependent gene expression in keratinocytes are modulated by a French maritime pine bark extract. Free Radic Biol Med. 2001 Jan 15;30(2):154-60. doi: 10.1016/s0891-5849(00)00445-7. PMID: 11163532.
Brain Health & Cognitive Function, Neurological Support, Hearing
5. Trebatická J, Kopasová S, Hradecná Z, Cinovský K, Skodácek I, Suba J, Muchová J, Zitnanová I, Waczulíková I, Rohdewald P, Duracková Z. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2006 Sep;15(6):329-35. doi: 10.1007/s00787-006-0538-3. Epub 2006 May 13. PMID: 16699814.
6. Grossi MG, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Hosoi M, Cacchio M, Ippolito E, Bavera P. Improvement in cochlear flow with Pycnogenol® in patients with tinnitus: a pilot evaluation. Panminerva Med. 2010 Jun;52(2 Suppl 1):63-7. PMID: 20657537.
7. Belcaro G, Luzzi R, Dugall M, Ippolito E, Saggino A. Pycnogenol® improves cognitive function, attention, mental performance and specific professional skills in healthy professionals aged 35-55. J Neurosurg Sci. 2014 Dec;58(4):239-48. Epub 2014 Mar 28. PMID: 24675223.
8. Belcaro G, Dugall M, Ippolito E, Hu S, Saggino A, Feragalli B. The COFU3 Study. Improvement in cognitive function, attention, mental performance with Pycnogenol® in healthy subjects (55-70) with high oxidative stress. J Neurosurg Sci. 2015 Dec;59(4):437-46. PMID: 26635191.
9. Luzzi R, Belcaro G, Zulli C, Cesarone MR, Cornelli U, Dugall M, Hosoi M, Feragalli B. Pycnogenol® supplementation improves cognitive function, attention and mental performance in students. Panminerva Med. 2011 Sep;53(3 Suppl 1):75-82. PMID: 22108481.
10. Ryan J, Croft K, Mori T, Wesnes K, Spong J, Downey L, Kure C, Lloyd J, Stough C. An examination of the effects of the antioxidant Pycnogenol on cognitive performance, serum lipid profile, endocrinological and oxidative stress biomarkers in an elderly population. J Psychopharmacol. 2008 Jul;22(5):553-62. doi: 10.1177/0269881108091584. PMID: 18701642.
Cardiovascular Health: Heart, Veins, Blood Pressure, Circulation, Endothelium, Nitric Oxide
11. Arcangeli P. Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Fitoterapia. 2000 Jun;71(3):236-44. doi: 10.1016/s0367-326x(99)00164-1. PMID: 10844161.
12. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Errichi BM, Ledda A, Di Renzo A, Stuard S, Dugall M, Pellegrini L, Rohdewald P, Ippolito E, Ricci A, Cacchio M, Ruffini I, Fano F, Hosoi M. Venous ulcers: microcirculatory improvement and faster healing with local use of Pycnogenol. Angiology. 2005 Nov-Dec;56(6):699-705. doi: 10.1177/000331970505600607. PMID: 16327946.
13. Belcaro G, Dugall M, Luzzi R, Ippolito E, Cesarone MR. Postpartum Varicose Veins: Supplementation with Pycnogenol or Elastic Compression-A 12-Month Follow-Up. Int J Angiol. 2017 Mar;26(1):12-19. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1363784. Epub 2014 May 29. PMID: 28255210; PMCID: PMC5330748.
14. Belcaro G. A Clinical Comparison of Pycnogenol, Antistax, and Stocking in Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Int J Angiol. 2015 Dec;24(4):268-74. doi: 10.1055/s-0035-1556060. Epub 2015 Jul 15. PMID: 26648668; PMCID: PMC4656166.
15. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ledda A, Vinciguerra G, Ricci A, Gizzi G, Ippolito E, Fano F, Dugall M, Acerbi G, Cacchio M, Di Renzo A, Hosoi M, Stuard S, Corsi M. Rapid relief of signs/symptoms in chronic venous microangiopathy with pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study. Angiology. 2006 Oct-Nov;57(5):569-76. doi: 10.1177/0003319706291392. Erratum in: Angiology. 2008 Jun-Jul;59(3):385. PMID: 17067979.
16. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ledda A, Vinciguerra G, Ricci A, Gizzi G, Ippolito E, Fano F, Dugall M, Acerbi G, Cacchio M, Di Renzo A, Hosoi M, Stuard S, Corsi M. Comparison of Pycnogenol and Daflon in treating chronic venous insufficiency: a prospective, controlled study. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2006 Apr;12(2):205-12. doi: 10.1177/107602960601200209. PMID: 16708123.
17. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ledda A, Vinciguerra G, Ricci A, Ippolito E, Fano F, Dugall M, Cacchio M, Di Renzo A, Hosoi M, Stuard S, Corsi M. Improvement of signs and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and microangiopathy with Pycnogenol: a prospective, controlled study. Phytomedicine. 2010 Sep;17(11):835-9. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2010.04.009. Epub 2010 Jun 25. PMID: 20579863.
18. Koch R. Comparative study of Venostasin and Pycnogenol in chronic venous insufficiency. Phytother Res. 2002 Mar;16 Suppl 1:S1-5. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1010. PMID: 11933130.
19. Petrassi C, Mastromarino A, Spartera C. PYCNOGENOL in chronic venous insufficiency. Phytomedicine. 2000 Oct;7(5):383-8. doi: 10.1016/S0944-7113(00)80059-8. PMID: 11081989.
20. Riccioni C, Sarcinella R, Izzo A, Palermo G, Liguori M. Efficacia della Troxerutina associata al Pycnogenol nel trattamento farmacologico dell’insufficienza venosa [Effectiveness of Troxerutin in association with Pycnogenol in the pharmacological treatment of venous insufficiency]. Minerva Cardioangiol. 2004 Feb;52(1):43-8. Italian. PMID: 14765037.
21. Schmidtke I, Schoop W. Pycnogenol—stasis edema and its medical treatment [in German]. Z Ganzheits Med. 1995;3:114-115.
22. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Rohdewald P, Ricci A, Ippolito E, Dugall M, Griffin M, Ruffini I, Acerbi G, Vinciguerra MG, Bavera P, Di Renzo A, Errichi BM, Cerritelli F. Prevention of venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis in long-haul flights with pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2004 Oct;10(4):373-7. doi: 10.1177/107602960401000410. PMID: 15497024.
23. Errichi BM, Belcaro G, Hosoi M, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Feragalli B, Bavera P, Hosoi M, Zulli C, Corsi M, Ledda A, Luzzi R, Ricci A. Prevention of post thrombotic syndrome with Pycnogenol® in a twelve month study. Panminerva Med. 2011 Sep;53(3 Suppl 1):21-7. PMID: 22108473.
24. Rodriguez P, Belcaro G, Dugall M, Hu S, Luzzi R, Ledda A, Ippolito E, Corsi M, Ricci A, Feragalli B, Cornelli U, Gizzi C, Hosoi M. Recurrence of retinal vein thrombosis with Pycnogenol® or Aspirin® supplementation: a registry study. Panminerva Med. 2015 Sep;57(3):121-5. PMID: 25971329.
25. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Ricci A, Cornelli U, Rodhewald P, Ledda A, Di Renzo A, Stuard S, Cacchio M, Vinciguerra G, Gizzi G, Pellegrini L, Dugall M, Fano F. Control of edema in hypertensive subjects treated with calcium antagonist (nifedipine) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with Pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2006 Oct;12(4):440-4. doi: 10.1177/1076029606292248. PMID: 17000888.
26. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Stuard S, Schönlau F, Di Renzo A, Grossi MG, Dugall M, Cornelli U, Cacchio M, Gizzi G, Pellegrini L. Kidney flow and function in hypertension: protective effects of pycnogenol in hypertensive participants–a controlled study. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther. 2010 Mar;15(1):41-6. doi: 10.1177/1074248409356063. Epub 2010 Jan 22. PMID: 20097689.
27. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective, 16 week crossover study to determine the role of Pycnogenol in modifying blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. (n.d.). University of Arizona. https://experts.arizona.edu/en/publications/a-randomized-double-blind-placebo-controlled-prospective-16-week-/fingerprints/
28. Liu X, Wei J, Tan F, Zhou S, Würthwein G, Rohdewald P. Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves endothelial function of hypertensive patients. Life Sci. 2004 Jan 2;74(7):855-62. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2003.07.037. PMID: 14659974.
29. Stuard S, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Ricci A, Dugall M, Cornelli U, Gizzi G, Pellegrini L, Rohdewald PJ. Kidney function in metabolic syndrome may be improved with Pycnogenol®. Panminerva Med. 2010 Jun;52(2 Suppl 1):27-32. PMID: 20657531.
30. Hu S, Belcaro G, Cornelli U, Luzzi R, Cesarone M, Dugall M, Feragalli B, Errichi B, Ippolito E, Grossi M, Hosoi M, Gizzi G, Trignani M. Effects of Pycnogenol® on endothelial dysfunction in borderline hypertensive, hyperlipidemic, and hyperglycemic individuals: the borderline study. Int Angiol. 2015 Feb;34(1):43-52. Epub 2014 Nov 13. PMID: 25391252.
31.) Belcaro G, Cornelli U, Luzzi R, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Feragalli B, Errichi S, Ippolito E, Grossi MG, Hosoi M, Cornelli M, Gizzi G. Pycnogenol® supplementation improves health risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Phytother Res. 2013 Oct;27(10):1572-8. doi: 10.1002/ptr.4883. Epub 2013 Jan 28. PMID: 23359520.
Inflammation Response, Immune Function, Respiratory Health, Lung Function, Allergy & Sinus
32. Belcaro G, Luzzi R, Cesinaro Di Rocco P, Cesarone MR, Dugall M, Feragalli B, Errichi BM, Ippolito E, Grossi MG, Hosoi M, Errichi S, Cornelli U, Ledda A, Gizzi G. Pycnogenol® improvements in asthma management. Panminerva Med. 2011 Sep;53(3 Suppl 1):57-64. PMID: 22108478.
33. Hosseini S, Pishnamazi S, Sadrzadeh SM, Farid F, Farid R, Watson RR. Pycnogenol((R)) in the Management of Asthma. J Med Food. 2001 Winter;4(4):201-209. doi: 10.1089/10966200152744472. PMID: 12639402.
34. Lau BH, Riesen SK, Truong KP, Lau EW, Rohdewald P, Barreta RA. Pycnogenol as an adjunct in the management of childhood asthma. J Asthma. 2004;41(8):825-32. doi: 10.1081/jas-200038433. PMID: 15641632.
35. Wilson D, Evans M, Guthrie N, Sharma P, Baisley J, Schonlau F, Burki C. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study to evaluate the potential of pycnogenol for improving allergic rhinitis symptoms. Phytother Res. 2010 Aug;24(8):1115-9. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3232. PMID: 20549654.
36. Otorinolaringologia 2013 September;63(3):151-61. (n.d.). https://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/Otorhinolaryngology/article.php?cod=R27Y2013N03A0151
37. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Genovesi D, Ledda A, Vinciguerra G, Ricci A, Pellegrini L, Gizzi G, Ippolito E, Dugall M, Cacchio M, Di Renzo A, Stuard S. Pycnogenol may alleviate adverse effects in oncologic treatment. Panminerva Med. 2008 Sep;50(3):227-34. PMID: 18927527.
Blood Sugar, Glucose Metabolism, & Kidney Function
38. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Errichi BM, Ledda A, Di Renzo A, Stuard S, Dugall M, Pellegrini L, Gizzi G, Rohdewald P, Ippolito E, Ricci A, Cacchio M, Cipollone G, Ruffini I, Fano F, Hosoi M. Diabetic ulcers: microcirculatory improvement and faster healing with pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2006 Jul;12(3):318-23. doi: 10.1177/1076029606290133. PMID: 16959685.
39. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ledda A, Vinciguerra G, Ricci A, Gizzi G, Ippolito E, Fano F, Dugall M, Cipollone G, Acerbi G, Cacchio M, Del Boccio G, Di Renzo A, Stuard S, Corsi M. Improvement of diabetic microangiopathy with pycnogenol: A prospective, controlled study. Angiology. 2006 Aug-Sep;57(4):431-6. doi: 10.1177/0003319706290318. PMID: 17022378.
40. Liu X, Wei J, Tan F, Zhou S, Würthwein G, Rohdewald P. Antidiabetic effect of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in patients with diabetes type II. Life Sci. 2004 Oct 8;75(21):2505-13. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2003.10.043. PMID: 15363656.
41. Liu X, Zhou HJ, Rohdewald P. French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol dose-dependently lowers glucose in type 2 diabetic patients. Diabetes Care. 2004 Mar;27(3):839. doi: 10.2337/diacare.27.3.839. PMID: 14988316.
42. Zibadi S, Rohdewald PJ, Park D, Watson RR. Reduction of cardiovascular risk factors in subjects with type 2 diabetes by Pycnogenol supplementation. Nutr Res. 2008 May;28(5):315-20. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2008.03.003. PMID: 19083426.
Joint Health
43. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Errichi S, Zulli C, Errichi BM, Vinciguerra G, Ledda A, Di Renzo A, Stuard S, Dugall M, Pellegrini L, Errichi S, Gizzi G, Ippolito E, Ricci A, Cacchio M, Cipollone G, Ruffini I, Fano F, Hosoi M, Rohdewald P. Treatment of osteoarthritis with Pycnogenol. The SVOS (San Valentino Osteo-arthrosis Study). Evaluation of signs, symptoms, physical performance and vascular aspects. Phytother Res. 2008 Apr;22(4):518-23. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2376. PMID: 18386255.
44. Cisár P, Jány R, Waczulíková I, Sumegová K, Muchová J, Vojtassák J, Duraćková Z, Lisý M, Rohdewald P. Effect of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Phytother Res. 2008 Aug;22(8):1087-92. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2461. PMID: 18570266.
45. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective, 16 week crossover study to determine the role of Pycnogenol in modifying blood pressure in mildly hypertensive patients. (n.d.). University of Arizona. https://experts.arizona.edu/en/publications/a-randomized-double-blind-placebo-controlled-prospective-16-week-/fingerprints/
Eye Health
46. Spadea L, Balestrazzi E. Treatment of vascular retinopathies with Pycnogenol. Phytother Res. 2001 May;15(3):219-23. doi: 10.1002/ptr.853. PMID: 11351356.
Active Lifestyle & Sports Performance
47. Vinciguerra G, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Rohdewald P, Stuard S, Ricci A, Di Renzo A, Hosoi M, Dugall M, Ledda A, Cacchio M, Acerbi G, Fano F. Cramps and muscular pain: prevention with pycnogenol in normal subjects, venous patients, athletes, claudicants and in diabetic microangiopathy. Angiology. 2006 May-Jun;57(3):331-9. doi: 10.1177/000331970605700309. PMID: 16703193.
Oral Care
48. Kimbrough C, Chun M, dela Roca G, Lau BH. PYCNOGENOL chew-ing gum minimizes gingival bleeding and plaque formation. Phytomedicine. 2002;9(5):410-413.
Men’s Health
49. D̆Uračková, Z. (2003). Lipid metabolism and erectile function improvement by pycnogenol®, extract from the bark of pinus pinaster in patients suffering from erectile dysfunction-a pilot study. AGRIS: International Information System for the Agricultural Science and Technology. https://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=US201600076652
Women’s Health
50. Errichi S, Bottari A, Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Hosoi M, Cornelli U, Dugall M, Ledda A, Feragalli B. Supplementation with Pycnogenol® improves signs and symptoms of menopausal transition. Panminerva Med. 2011 Sep;53(3 Suppl 1):65-70. PMID: 22108479.
51. Kohama T, Negami M. Effect of low-dose French maritime pine bark extract on climacteric syndrome in 170 perimenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Reprod Med. 2013 Jan-Feb;58(1-2):39-46. PMID: 23447917.
52. Maia H Jr, Haddad C, Casoy J. Combining oral contraceptives with a natural nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitor for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain. Int J Womens Health. 2013 Dec 21;6:35-9. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S55210. PMID: 24379702; PMCID: PMC3873204.
53. Maia H Jr, Haddad C, Casoy J. The effect of pycnogenol on patients with dysmenorrhea using low-dose oral contraceptives. Int J Womens Health. 2014 Dec 11;6:1019-22. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S75389. PMID: 25525393; PMCID: PMC4266261.
54. Yang HM, Liao MF, Zhu SY, Liao MN, Rohdewald P. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Pycnogenol on the climacteric syndrome in peri-menopausal women. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2007;86(8):978-85. doi: 10.1080/00016340701446108. PMID: 17653885.
55. Kohama T, Suzuki N, Ohno S, Inoue M. Analgesic efficacy of French maritime pine bark extract in dysmenorrhea: an open clinical trial. J Reprod Med. 2004 Oct;49(10):828-32. PMID: 15568408.
56. Suzuki N, Uebaba K, Kohama T, Moniwa N, Kanayama N, Koike K. French maritime pine bark extract significantly lowers the requirement for analgesic medication in dysmenorrhea: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Reprod Med. 2008 May;53(5):338-46. PMID: 18567279.
57. Kohama T, Herai K, Inoue M. Effect of French maritime pine bark extract on endometriosis as compared with leuprorelin acetate. J Reprod Med. 2007 Aug;52(8):703-8. PMID: 17879831.
58. Kohama T, Inoue M. Pycnogenol alleviates pain associated with pregnancy. Phytother Res. 2006 Mar;20(3):232-4. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1840. PMID: 16521117.
Hemorrhoid Support
59. Belcaro G, Gizzi G, Pellegrini L, Dugall M, Luzzi R, Corsi M, Ippolito E, Ricci A, Cesarone MR, Ledda A, Bottari A, Errichi BM. Pycnogenol® in postpartum symptomatic hemorrhoids. Minerva Ginecol. 2014 Feb;66(1):77-84. PMID: 24569406.
Edema on Long Flights
60. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Rohdewald P, Pellegrini L, Ippolito E, Scoccianti M, Ricci A, Dugall M, Cacchio M, Ruffini I, Fano F, Acerbi G, Vinciguerra MG, Bavera P, Di Renzo A, Errichi BM, Mucci F. Prevention of edema in long flights with Pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2005 Jul;11(3):289-94. doi: 10.1177/107602960501100307. PMID: 16015414.