The bark of trees is a protective wonder of nature. They contain special ingredients that are also of interest to humans. This is especially true for the maritime pine. Extracts from their bark are often found in the trade asPine bark extractand are considered a natural means to support a variety of functions.

Which trees exactly do you get pine bark extract from?

On the west coast of France and the Atlantic coast of Spain, the Pinus pinaster subsp. Atlantica, a pine species, thrives.also known as beach pine, sea pine, hedgehog pine, Bordeaux pine or sea pineThis tree grows on sandy soils in monocultures, can grow up to 40 meters tall and reach an age of 300 years. Compared to other pine species, the maritime pine has a particularly thick, reddish bark with deep furrows. Thetrees well adapted to the harsh climateafter 30 to 50 years for timber production. The pieces of bark from which the extracts are made are then about three centimeters thick.

What does the name “pine bark” mean?

Pines are only one of the hundred or so pine species, but in English the generic term for all pines is “pine”. It is likely that this is the reason why “pine bark extract” has become popular in the German trade due to an inaccurate translation, although it isfrom the bark of the maritime pine (Pinus sylvestris)A more precise term would be “pine bark extract”, which is sometimes used.

What are the main ingredients of pine bark?

The bark of the maritime pine contains high amounts of polyphenols, especiallyoligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC)and other bioflavonoids such as catechins and epicatechins. OPC from pine bark orGrape seedsto countone of the strongest antioxidantsat all.

The bark also contains plant acids such as caffeic, cinnamic and ferulic acid as well asBioflavonoids, which also contribute to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of pine bark extract. Finally, the bark of the maritime pine also contains minerals such asCalcium, potassium andiron.

What effects does pine bark extract have?

Thanks to its ingredients, pine bark extractanti-inflammatory and strong antioxidant effects, supports blood circulation, which alsopositive influence on blood pressureand protects the blood vessel walls.

What is pine bark extract used for in naturopathy?

Thanks to its ingredients, pine bark extract is used in many different ways in natural medicine. On the one hand, it is very popular due to its slightly blood pressure regulating and circulation-promoting properties. On the other hand, it is considered to besupporting means for theVascular healthbecause it has antithrombotic effects and protects the vascular walls.Also for skin problems, venous disorders,Diabetes mellitus, wound healing disorders, tinnitus andJoint painPine bark extract is used in naturopathy.

What should you consider when using pine bark extract?

In general, regular intake of pine bark extract is safe. It should be taken with a meal and the dosage instructions should be followed.The combination of pine bark extract with other vital substances is considered beneficialsuch as the antioxidantvitamin Cto utilize synergistic effects. Pine bark extract is used to regenerate vitamin C.