Pharma Nord Bio?Pycnogenol 40?mg (maritime pine bark extract, Pinus pinaster) from a 150-tablet pack ? What Is Pycnogenol? Pycnogenol is a standardized extract from the bark of French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster), containing ~65?75% procyanidins?potent antioxidant flavonoids Pharma Nord?s Bio?Pycnogenol 40?mg tablets are manufactured to pharmaceutical standards, suitable for vegetarians and kosher-certified, delivering 40?mg per tablet ? Evidence-Based Benefits A comprehensive review of 39 randomized, double?blind, placebo?controlled trials (total n?=?2,009) showed Pycnogenol may support health in: Cardiovascular function and venous insufficiency Joint health (pain and mobility in osteoarthritis) Skin elasticity and hydration Eye health, including protection from oxidative damage Cognitive function and mood Respiratory health allergies, including asthma and allergic rhinitis Sports performance and endurance Notable examples: Joint pain: In studies of knee or foot/ankle osteoarthritis, daily Pycnogenol (100?150?mg) led to ~56% pain reduction vs. ~10% placebo, with reduced NSAID usage and improved mobility Asthma allergies: Improvement in FEV? and symptom scores in children and adults; reduced leukotrienes and less antihistamine use when started before pollen season Cognition: Small studies in adults showed improvements in memory, attention, and mood over 12 weeks of supplementation (~150?mg/day) However, a recent Cochrane review (2020 update) concluded that evidence is insufficient to support Pycnogenol for treating any chronic disorder due to small sample sizes and variable methodologies ? Typical Dosing (Pharma Nord Recommendation) Week?1: 2 tablets twice daily (?160?mg/day) Ongoing: 1 tablet twice daily (?80?mg/day) or as advised by a healthcare provider Most clinical trials have used daily doses ranging from 100 to 150?mg, often split morning and evening. ?? Safety Side Effects Generally well-tolerated, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g. gas, cramps), dizziness, or headache possible in a small minority ( ?2% Bleeding risk: May slow clotting?avoid alongside anticoagulants or before surgery Hypoglycemia: May lower blood sugar?monitor if taking antidiabetic meds Immune effects: Might not be suitable for people with autoimmune diseases (e.g. lupus, MS) due to possible immune stimulation