Pine bark extract for arthritis?

A randomised, double blind, placebo controlled study was carried out on the effects of pine bark extract on arthritis. The study, published in the journal Nutrition Reserch, indicated an improvement of 52% in knee osteoarthritis.

The extract from pine bark believed to have this positive effect on arthritis is Pycnogenol. Pycnogenol is available in a supplement from many manufacturers, widely available is the Solgar brand.

There are a few contraindications with Pycnogenol – advice should be sought if you have diabetes or low blood sugar, take medications for high cholesterol, have a history of bleeding or blood clotting disorders, take anti coagulant or blood pressure medications, take medications to suppress the immune system or have known allergies to plants.