Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the pain, swelling, stiffness and cartilage damage. Conventional treatment approaches include anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery. Pycnogenol, a trademark of Horphag Research Ltd., is a natural supplement derived from marine pine bark, scientifically known as Pinus pinaster. Several small clinical studies have shown that Pycnogenol is beneficial for improving symptoms of osteoarthritis; more research is needed to confirm these findings fully. Always consult your physician before taking Pycnogenol or other natural supplements for your condition.
Research
Pycnogenol was found to be effective in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, suggests a research team led by Dr. P. Cisar, in a study published in August 2008 issue of "Pytotherapy Research." This double blind, placebo-controlled study involved 100 patients. One group of participants received 150 mg Pycnogenol per day for three months, while the rest of the subjects served as a control group. The researchers indicated significant improvement in various pain scores, and also reduced the need for conventional anti-inflammatory drugs in the participants who were treated with Pycnogenol. The placebo group expressed the same pain intensity and required additional anti-inflammatory medication. It is also noted that Pycnogenol was well-tolerated.
Maintains Joint Integrity
Pycnogenol contains some natural compounds called procyanidolic oligomers. These substances help maintain your overall health and the integrity of your joints by fighting free radicals. The antioxidant activity of procyanidolic oligomers is 50 times greater that the antioxidant activity of vitamin C or E, explains Michael Murray, N.D., author of "The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines."
Dosage
Alternative health care providers may recommend a daily dose of 60 to 300 mg of Pycnogenol daily for adults suffering from osteoarthritis.
Safety
There are no known side effects from taking Pycnogenol. This supplement may interact with dextroamphetamine, a conventional drug used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The safety of using Pycnogenol during pregnancy and lactation was not fully assessed, but it should be used cautiously by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Consult with your doctor before you begin to take this supplement.
Considerations
Consult a qualified professional to find out optimal dosage of Pycnogenol that may help improve your condition. U. S. Food and Drug Administration did not approve this supplement for the treatment of arthritis, and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs you are currently taking. A healthy diet and weight management are also two important factors to consider in the management of osteoarthritis.
References
- Drugs.com: Pycnogenol
- PubMed.gov: Effect of Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) on Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis; P. Cisar, et al.; August 2008
- "The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines"; Michael Murray, N.D.; 2002
