http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/ Latest news from example.comen http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/typo3conf/ext/tt_news/ext_icon.gif http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/ 1816Latest news from example.comTYPO3 - get.content.righthttp://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rssFri, 03 May 2013 12:46:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=254&cHash=264ec8af2188c3e054d5cc2a25c8e4ee Study finds natural supplement effective in reducing waistline obesity, high cholesterol, high... Phytotherapy Research found natural supplement Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, to be effective in helping to reduce health risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Nearly 90 percent of study participants who supplemented a healthy diet and regular exercise with Pycnogenol^® showed significant improvement of all metabolic syndrome characteristics, including obesity and high blood pressure. The American Heart Association (AHA) defines metabolic syndrome as simultaneous presence of three of five risk factors, including central obesity (40+ inch waistline for men, 35+ inch waistline for women), low HDL (good) cholesterol, high blood pressure, high glucose (sugar) and high triglycerides (fat). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that some 75 million Americans suffer from metabolic syndrome, which can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and type II diabetes. “In this study, we found that Pycnogenol^® can aid people struggling with metabolic syndrome to control blood lipids, sugar and blood pressure. Results show that those who supplemented healthy diet and moderate exercise with Pycnogenol^® were able to improve heart health and lose weight, reaching an almost normal body mass index (BMI),” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher of the study. “This study provides evidence that daily supplementation with Pycnogenol^® may offer a natural approach to help achieve healthy blood pressure, improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels and ultimately, greater cardiovascular health.” The study, conducted at the Italian university of Chieti-Pescara followed 130 subjects, ages 45-55 years old, who presented with all five risk factors of metabolic syndrome, as defined by the AHA. A controlled clinical trial was conducted and participants were given either placebo capsules or 50 mg of Pycnogenol^® three times daily. The results showed that risk factors of metabolic syndrome were all significantly improved at three months with supplementation of Pycnogenol^®, with further improvement at six months. Conducted to identify individuals at higher risk of heart disease, the study focused on the impact of obesity in metabolic syndrome to further emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes related to diet and physical exercise.  Those participants who supplemented with Pycnogenol^® were free of all five metabolic syndrome risk factors and were well within normal values within six months. More than half of subjects in the placebo group – those who did not take Pycnogenol^® – still presented with all five metabolic syndrome risk factors even after six months of diet and exercise.  Additionally, the study found that those patients who supplemented healthy diet and exercise with Pycnogenol^® achieved: ·         Weight loss – waist circumference reached non-obese levels after three months (39 inches or less for men, 34 inches or less for women) ·         Healthy BMI – baseline average BMI decreased from 26.7 to 25.1 kg/m² after completion of the half-year trial ·         Healthy glucose, triglyceride and HDL cholesterol values ·         Significant reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure ·         Significant reduction of oxidative stress ·         Improved endothelial function believed to have assisted in achievement of healthy blood pressures ·         Inhibition of alpha-glucosidase suggested to be the cause for lower blood glucose levels, as starchy foods are absorbed more slowly All participants were managed using counseling and dietary education, and a moderate exercise program was initiated.  Study participants were followed for six months. At three months and at six months, participants were investigated for waist circumference, BMI, weight and blood pressure. At each visit participants were tested for cholesterol and blood pressure and heart rate was monitored in the mornings. All subjects received instructions to improve their lifestyle and decrease waist circumference. “This study adds to the already established portfolio of studies on Pycnogenol^® and heart health conducted over the last 30 years, “ said Frank Schonlau, Ph.D., scientific director for Horphag Research, worldwide distributors of Pycnogenol^®.“ Previous studies have shown Pycnogenol^® is natural solution for individuals with metabolic syndrome, particularly for kidney protection. The natural extract has also been shown in several studies to lower blood glucose in type II diabetic patients. Pycnogenol^® supplementation has been associated with improved cardiovascular health, such as cholesterol reduction, blood pressure control and prevention of thrombosis.” To view the clinical research and additional information on Pycnogenol^®, visit www.Pycnogenol.com. About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits.  The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient.  Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide.  For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. About Horphag Research
Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) brand French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol^® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd. For its patented ingredient, Pycnogenol^®, Horphag Research has been awarded the Frost & Sullivan Excellence in Research Award, Nutraceutical Business & Technology Safety & Quality Award, SupplySide West Scientific Excellence Award and The American Botanical Council’s Tyler Research Award. For more information about Pycnogenol^® visit www.pycnogenol.com. # # #]]> News Pycnogenol Pycno_Heart health Pycno_Diabetes Consumers Partners Press Release Media_General Wed, 01 May 2013 16:41:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=245&cHash=2da3847ea0c61c112b55e1f23f5f7e2c Pycnogenol® for Beauty & Skin Care Report Newsletter Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:44:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=237&cHash=961466a5e503b3b715726410ecfd968d Low dose of natural supplement found to reduce hot flashes, night-time sweating and other symptoms... ® can aid in relief of a number of these symptoms, which helps improve the quality of women’s life during this transitional period,” said Takafumi Kohama, lead researcher from Keiju Medical Center. The study was conducted at Keiju Medical Center in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan and examined 170 perimenopausal women. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial was conducted and participants were given either placebo capsules or 30 mg of Pycnogenol^® twice per day, over a period of 12 weeks. The rationale of the study was to identify menopausal symptoms which respond particularly well to supplementation with a low dosage of Pycnogenol^®. Dr. Kohama and his group discovered that Pycnogenol^® is most effective for lowering hot flashes and nighttime sweating. Kohama explains that thermal dysregulation may relate to the inability of menopausal women to radiate off excess heat because peripheral blood vessels insufficiently expand. Pycnogenol^® supports vascular relaxation, which allows the body to rid of excess body heat, subsiding the sensation of hot flashes and nighttime sweating. Dr. Kohama also emphasizes the increased general risk for cardiovascular health problems of menopausal women, which may benefit from the improved vascular function with Pycnogenol^®. The discovery of lowered heart palpitations in women taking Pycnogenol^® in this study provides further support to this point. This study systematically investigated and compared hormonal changes of women taking Pycnogenol^® or placebo. Kohama and his co-workers did not find any significant changes between groups as for estradiol (E2), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) and dehydroepiandrosterone. The evidence for non-hormonal effects of Pycnogenol^® may be welcomed by women who wish to soothe menopausal symptoms without using supplements containing soy, kudzu, red clover and other herbals to exert hormonal activity. Though some women dropped out of the study, none of them left the study because of unwanted effects related to treatment. An additional questionnaire, the Kupperman index, was given to participants to describe and score the level of discomfort related to climacteric symptoms, using values ranging from one (heavy discomfort) to four (no discomfort). Differences in baseline performance between the placebo group and Pycnogenol® group were tested as well as a comparison of perimenopausal symptom scores obtained during treatment. According to the study, the total symptom improvement using the Kupperman index, which represents the most commonly utilized questionnaire in Japan, was statistically significant versus the placebo group. The study identified a number of further menopausal symptom improvements such as decreased heart palpitations which reached borderline statistical significance. “These findings leave little doubt about the benefit of Pycnogenol® for women interested in controlling climacteric symptoms with a more natural approach. Our study is the first to provide evidence for the safety and efficacy of Pycnogenol® in perimenopausal women,” said Kohama. This study confirms findings from two previous studies, one of which investigated 200 menopausal women in double-blind, placebo-controlled fashion for half a year, that Pycnogenol® effectively improves menopausal signs and symptoms. Furthermore, Pycnogenol®’s ability to support heart health is of particular significance as menopausal women live at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease.  About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits.  The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient.  Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide.  For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. About Horphag ResearchHorphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and the company is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award. For more information about Pycnogenol® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com ]]> News Pycno_Menstrual Research_Menstrual In the News Press Release Tue, 12 Feb 2013 06:33:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=125&cHash=9a6025c3d2de56673aca74a9e02d2863 Natural supplement found to improve skin elasticity by 25 percent and skin hydration by eight... The study was conducted at the Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine (IUF) in Dusseldorf, Germany and examined 20 healthy women, aged 55 – 68 years. Participants were given 75 mg of Pycnogenol® per day, over a period of 12 weeks. Skin hydration, skin elasticity and skin fatigue were assessed by non-invasive biophysical methods at trial start and after six and 12 weeks. In addition, at the beginning and again after 12 weeks of Pycnogenol® supplementation, each time, a biopsy was obtained to assess gene expression of HAS-1 and COL1A1 and COL1A2. The study found that:
• Pycnogenol® elevated COL1A1 by 29 percent and COL1A2 by 41 percent and increased hyaluronic acid production in skin by 44 percent
• Pycnogenol® enhanced skin elasticity by 25 percent, in addition to skin hydration by eight percent, and was especially noticeable in women who had dry skin from the start, with an increase of 21 percent
• Pycnogenol® decreased skin fatigue considerably
• Pycnogenol® reduced skin wrinkles by three percent and increased skin smoothness by six percent
“To date, Pycnogenol® is the only natural supplement that stimulates hyaluronic acid production in human skin. And, we are encouraged by the molecular evidence confirmed in this study that shows nutritional supplementation with Pycnogenol® benefits human skin,” explains Dr. Jean Krutmann, the lead researcher from the Leibniz Research Institute in Dusseldorf, Germany. 
Study results confirmed Pycnogenol® improved skin at a physiological and molecular level. Pycnogenol® increased hyaluronic acid in women by 44 percent after 12 weeks of supplementation. Hyaluronic acid binds large quantities of water in the skin and in other tissues, such as cartilage. An increased amount of hyaluronic acid explains the increased skin hydration, higher elasticity and overall smoother skin appearance found in women taking Pycnogenol®. 
“This exciting and technically advanced investigation with women representing actual consumer profiles greatly supports our efforts for targeting the skin beauty category for both dietary supplements and functional foods,” says Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag Research, exclusive worldwide suppliers of Pycnogenol®, who welcomes the publication. 
According to Ferrari, beauty from within has been a driver in Horphag’s business for the last several years, with Asian markets providing numerous Pycnogenol® products in the skincare field. This study joins a sizable and largely expanding portfolio of already established skin research on Pycnogenol®. It confirms previous indications that Pycnogenol® improves human skin conditions, including promoting glowing skin and reducing the appearance of over-pigmentation and skin inflammation, resulting in a more even complexion.
About Pycnogenol® 
Pycnogenol® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. 
About Horphag Research
Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and the company is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award. For more information about Pycnogenol® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com]]> Press Release Pycno_Skin health Research_Skin health Tue, 18 Dec 2012 09:05:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=189&cHash=14bb0b92bebe150743e2fdfe834734c7 Geneva ]]> News Events Tue, 27 Nov 2012 12:12:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=188&cHash=a50701a78892bc192e342c3a2b479790 New York City ]]> News Events Tue, 27 Nov 2012 12:03:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=187&cHash=8edb8b2456f9c1b1e70a0be275184037 ]]> News Events Tue, 27 Nov 2012 11:56:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=181&cHash=f87947cf4b0bd94f33ef6855dac0cae7 Study shows natural supplement improves allergic asthma management: helps asthma patients reduce... Panminerva Medica, found that natural supplement Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) – an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree – improved control of allergic asthma, reducing night awakenings caused by asthma symptoms by nearly 50 percent. Asthma patients who used Pycnogenol^® experienced reduced dependence on inhalation corticosteroid (ICS), which is commonly administered through an inhaler, and required less visits to a doctor due to asthma symptoms. The study, conducted at the Department of Biomedical Sciences at University of Pescara, Italy examined 76 patients, aged 25 – 45 years, with mild to moderate allergic asthma to dust mites. Provocation with dust mite allergen was carried out to confirm allergen specificity. During the study participants were split into two groups. One group was given 100 mg of Pycnogenol^® per day in addition to sustaining their use of ICS. The other group continued their use of ICS without additional supplementation. Daily ICS dosage and common asthma symptoms were evaluated in participants of both groups throughout a six month period. The study found that:

• ·         Pycnogenol^® supplementation allowed for lowering  the daily required ICS dosage in 55% of participants. In the control group only 6% of patients were able to control their asthma with a lower steroid dosage, while 19% had to switch to a higher regimen to control their asthma
• ·         In the Pycnogenol^® group use of a salbutamol rescue inhaler was required, on average, every fifth day, while in the control group inhalers were required, on average, every second day to deal with sudden asthma symptom flare-ups
• ·         Pycnogenol^® reduced night awakenings caused by asthma symptoms to only half the frequency as before, while no significant change was found for the control group.
• ·         Pycnogenol^® lowered the amount of days with a more than a one asthma score, which is a measure used to evaluate asthmatic patients’ degree of respiratory distress
• ·         Pycnogenol^® decreased frequency of consultation by a general practitioner or specialist by asthma patients

“Managing asthma allows those suffering from this critical condition to experience less of the uncomfortable symptoms of asthma, enabling them to live a better quality of life,” said Dr. Fred Pescatore, an internationally recognized health expert and author of the best selling book The Allergy and Asthma Cure. “Pycnogenol^® has offered my patients with asthma a healthy way to effectively manage this condition by reducing their use of multiple medications and occurrence of critical symptom episodes. ”    This study joins a wealth of other research regarding the benefits of Pycnogenol^® for asthma management in both adults and children with mild to moderate asthma. Previous research has demonstrated the natural supplement’s antioxidant activity and powerful anti-inflammatory properties that work to combat the inflammatory processes of the bronchi that cause them to constrict and swell, making breathing difficult. Pycnogenol was shown in three clinical studies to lower leukotriene values, inflammatory mediators responsible for asthma symptoms, to some extent also inallergic rhinitis (hay-fever). Asthmatics experience periods of wheezy breathing and breathlessness with intervals of relative or complete freedom from symptoms. Antigenic substances such as pollen, mite in house dust and animal hair may challenge the immune system leading to airway obstruction, while  chemical irritants like tobacco, smoke,  and air pollution may also trigger symptoms. Pycnogenol^® normalizes the immune response that can starve off harmful inflammation such as in asthma as well as hay-fever. “This study gives promising news to asthma patients seeking natural ways to complement their medication in order to better control their asthma symptoms, and confirms that Pycnogenol^® offers a natural solution that is not only effective but also safe,” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher of the study. About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. About Horphag Research Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol^® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award.  For more information about Pycnogenol^® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com ]]> News Pycnogenol Pycno_Respir. Research Consumers Partners Media Center Press Release Wed, 07 Nov 2012 16:50:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=180&cHash=48c4a2c5efe86661358298815340366c Pycnogenol® for Endothelial Function Report Newsletter Wed, 10 Oct 2012 14:38:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=137&cHash=0894973b80171b8121522cc8027be82d Horphag Research will be exhibiting at booth # 2-278. Stop by and learn about Pycnogenol's latest... ]]> Events Thu, 19 Jul 2012 08:06:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=135&cHash=cfadafb711abaa40b1939ce642ab50cd Horphag Research (UK) will be exhibiting at booth K62. Stop by and learn about Pycnogenol's latest... ]]> News Events Mon, 25 Jun 2012 21:32:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=134&cHash=b5af1d9d85821e5186d96b34c46724db Research reveals Pycnogenol® naturally improves circulatory and endothelial function in patients... European Heart Journal found that natural supplement Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree and natural solution for heart health, improves endothelial function in patients with stable coronary artery disease.  “When coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked by plaque build-up, oxygen-rich blood cannot reach the heart muscle, often leading to a heart attack,” says Dr. Frank Enseleit, the lead study researcher. “The results of this study show for the first time that Pycnogenol^® significantly improves endothelial function and blood flow in patients with coronary heart disease.” The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study was carried out at the Clinic for Cardiology at the University Hospital Zurich in Switzerland. The study investigated 23 patients with stable coronary artery disease, as documented by coronary angiography, nuclear imaging or positive stress test. Patients were assigned to two groups. Patients in Group One received Pycnogenol^® (200 mg/d) for eight weeks, then took placebo for another eight weeks. Group Two received the opposite sequence of placebo first, followed by eight weeks with Pycnogenol^®. Before and after the eight weeks of treatment, blood samples were taken and the flow-mediated dilatation of the brachial arteries in the upper arm was established. After eight weeks of treatment with Pycnogenol^® the study found: ·         Pycnogenol^® increased artery dilation by 32 percent, a significant change, while it remained unchanged in the placebo group ·         Pycnogenol^® significantly reduced plasma-8-isoprostaries, an index of oxidative stress ·         Pycnogenol^® demonstrated significant effects on a critical measure of endothelial function, reducing plasma levels of endothelin-1 “The balance between endothelial function and dysfunction plays an important role in the transition from a stable to an unstable disease state. As such, the evaluation of endothelial function has emerged as an important end point in cardiovascular research,” says Dr. Frank Enseleit. “After Pycnogenol^® usage, we were able to identify a significant improvement of endothelial function in individuals who depend on medications as a result of their heart disease. Pycnogenol^® appears to help restore a body’s own functions in flow-mediated arterial dilatation.” This groundbreaking study further strengthens Pycnogenol^®’s already large arsenal of cardiovascular health benefits. Past clinical trials have shown beneficial effects of Pycnogenol^® on chronic inflammation as well as cardiovascular risk factors including hypertension, cholesterol and platelet function. This new study also provides further evidence on the safety of Pycnogenol^® for patients taking cardiovascular medicines. About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits.  The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient.  Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide.  For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. About Horphag Research Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol^® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award.  For more information about Pycnogenol^® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com ]]> News Press Release Pycno_Heart health Thu, 07 Jun 2012 22:37:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=133&cHash=48e8bdb69d3fc8f1ef04dc6d7c533ee2 Visit us at SSW2012 ]]> Events Wed, 06 Jun 2012 20:48:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=131&cHash=62fbe9d4c7a1da5b372e3c71cdcc9a2a Pycnogenol® for Cognitive Function Report Newsletter Tue, 29 May 2012 10:03:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=130&cHash=ed9338af7a2dc0ca38b7fc1b0ffa1bac Natural supplement found to reduce hot flashes and bloating and improve irregular heart beat and... ® (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, was found to significantly improve signs and symptoms of menopause in a recent clinical trial published in Panminerva Medica. The study was conducted at Pescara University and examined 70 perimenopausal women, aged 40-50 years. Perimenopause is the term used to describe the menopause transition years, typically the years before and after the final menstrual period. Participants were assigned to a placebo or test group. The test group was given 100 mg of Pycnogenol^® per day (50 mg taken twice daily), over a period of eight weeks. Participants’ menopausal symptoms were evaluated by a scoring system, based on a total of 33 common signs and symptoms, using values ranging from zero (absent) to a maximum of four (very serious). Oxidative stress levels were evaluated by measuring capillary blood plasma free radicals from a drop of capillary blood from the finger tips. The study found that:

• Pycnogenol^® substantially improved perimenopausal signs and symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, loss of libido and vaginal dryness after eight weeks of treatment, as judged by patients’ scores, showing a decrease from an average of 2.67/4 to 1.45/4
• Pycnogenol^® effectively decreased the severity of hot flashes, decreased bloating and improved irregular heart beat and improved digestive problems
• Menopausal symptoms categorized under “pain” improved significantly with the group taking Pycnogenol^®
• Oxidative stress levels decreased significantly after Pycnogenol^® supplementation, improving quality of life and helping to control signs and symptoms of menopause

“As evidenced by this study, Pycnogenol^® may arguably represent a very effective basic, daily dietary supplement for menopausal women due to its extended range of health benefits, including cardiovascular benefits and Pycnogenol^®’s proven ability to lower blood pressure,” says Dr. Gianni Belcaro, the lead researcher from Pescara University, Italy. Results showed that not only did Pycnogenol^® improve menopausal signs and symptoms, but also decreased elevated levels of oxidative stress, as shown by capillary blood tests. Pycnogenol^®’s ability to manage heart health is of particular significance as menopausal women live at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease.  This study confirms previous findings that Pycnogenol^® effectively improves perimenopausal signs and symptoms. A previous study in Taiwan investigated 200 mg of Pycnogenol^® in 200 perimenopausal women over a period of half a year and identified an improvement in most signs and symptoms.  This study demonstrated Pycnogenol^®’s ability to improve signs and symptoms not only with a smaller dosage of Pycnogenol^® but also over a shorter period of time. About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits.  The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient.  Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide.  For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com. About Horphag Research
Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol^® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award.  For more information about Pycnogenol^® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com]]> News Press Release Pycno_Menstrual Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:14:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=126&cHash=441a76ad5c14997de06fdcbffe58942d Natural supplement shown to improve mental performance and decrease test anxiety by 17 percent

Pycnogenol® effectively enhanced mental performance, including improved sustained attention, memory and mood in students within an eight week period

Students taking Pycnogenol® had higher test scores on university exams than the control group

Alertness and contentedness improved significantly within the Pycnogenol® group and levels of anxiety decreased by 17 percent

“Oxygen-rich blood supply to the brain plays an important role for cognitive function and the improvement of vascular function with Pycnogenol® may be responsible for the beneficial effects found in this study,” says Dr. Gianni Belcaro, the lead researcher from Pescara University, Italy.  Results showed that not only did Pycnogenol® decrease test anxiety, but also confirmed Pycnogenol®’s ability to improve mental performance by evaluating students’ scores on exams. Researchers suggest that several physiologic contributions of Pycnogenol® may have contributed to the improved cognitive function of investigated students, namely antioxidant potency and blood circulation improvement. While the results are promising they need to be further investigated in a larger population group. This study confirms previous findings that Pycnogenol® effectively improves cognitive function. Research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology demonstrated that Pycnogenol® supplementation improved both numerical working memory as well as spatial working memory in Australian senior citizens.  About Pycnogenol® 
Pycnogenol® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit www.pycnogenol.com.  Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents #5,720,956 / #6,372,266 and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award. For more information about Pycnogenol® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com]]> News Pycno_Cognitive Research_Cognitive Press Release Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:20:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=121&cHash=e0ab554155dd1a8f23f67433e0976931 Pycnogenol for Men's Health Report Newsletter Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:40:00 +0100 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=127&cHash=daeda7b9972149cbc99195f291b6a522 Research shows Pycnogenol® is effective in relieving tinnitus symptoms and improving inner ear... Research shows Pycnogenol® is effective in relieving tinnitus symptoms and improving inner ear blood flow GENEVA, Switzerland – More than 50 million Americans will experience some degree of tinnitus in their lifetime, according to the American Tinnitus Association. Tinnitus is a hearing condition that causes the constant misperception of sound, including hissing, ringing and rushing noises. A study recently published in Panminerva Medica reveals that Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract derived from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, is effective in relieving tinnitus symptoms by improving blood flow in the inner ear. “Impaired blood flow to the ear is a common cause for tinnitus, a disturbing and very debilitating condition that can considerably impact overall health and quality of life,” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher on the study along with his team from Irvine3 Vascular labs, Chieti-Pescara University. “With few options available for treatment, this study gave us the opportunity to explore a natural solution to tinnitus symptoms and its causes.”

In a study conducted by the Chieti-Pescara University in Italy, 82 patients between the ages of 35 and 55 with mild-to-moderate tinnitus in only one ear, while the other remains unaffected, were studied throughout a four-week period. Tinnitus in all subjects was a result of restricted blood supply to the inner ear, as measured by high resolution ultrasonography imaging of their cochlear blood flow. Patients were assigned to one of three groups: A, B and control. Group A consisted of 24 patients who were administered 150 mg/day of Pycnogenol®, group B consisted of 34 patients who were administered 100 mg/day of Pycnogenol®, and the control group consisted of 24 patients who received no Pycnogenol®. None of the patients had previously used medication for their tinnitus symptoms. 

At the beginning of the study, patients’ average initial systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities were 14.3 and 4.22 cm/sec in the low dose Pycnogenol® group and 13.2 and 3.2 cm/sec in the high dose Pycnogenol® group, indicative of insufficient blood perfusion of the ear in both groups. The study found that after four weeks of treatment with Pycnogenol®, inner ear systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities in the affected ear rose to an average of 21.2 and 8.23 cm/sec in the low dose group and to 24.3 and 12.5 cm/sec in the high dose group. Not only are these results significant for the improvement of inner ear blood micro-circulation and, consequently reduction of tinnitus symptoms, but they also indicate the potentially dose-related effect of Pycnogenol® on the condition.

The study also examined in detail the effects of Pycnogenol® on the symptoms of tinnitus. Using a Subjective Tinnitus Scale (STS) at the inception of the study, subjects were instructed to rate their symptoms from “zero” (low intensity of symptoms) to “fifteen” (constant and severe symptoms). The initial STS average value was approximately 8.8 among patients in the Pycnogenol® group and 7.9 in the control group. After four weeks, STS scores reduced to 5.2 in the low dose group and 3.3 in the high dose group, demonstrating a dramatic reduction of the disturbing background noise in the effected ear. There were no significant changes within the control group. 

“The study clearly indicates Pycnogenol®’s ability to improve vascular function and restore cochlear blood perfusion, which in turn relieves the severity of tinnitus symptoms” said Dr. Belcaro. “The results provide further evidence of the supplement’s natural efficacy for a variety of vascular health symptoms.”
This study further corroborates Pycnogenol®’s prominence for improvement of vascular function which spans from the large arteries and veins to the tiniest micro-vessels. 

Pycnogenol® is a proprietary, patented pine bark extract and the research findings detailed here and in other published journals may not be applied to other pine bark extracts on the market.
About Pycnogenol®

Pycnogenol® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 230 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit www.Pycnogenol.com. 

About Horphag Research 
Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents #5,720,956 / #6,372,266 and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award. For more information about Pycnogenol® visit our Web site at www.pycnogenol.com]]> Press Release Pycno_Tinnitus Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:42:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=91&cHash=9e5a94d7823668e18cf20735bab378e9 Research reveals Pycnogenol® and CoQ10 taken as an adjunct to medication improves heart health:... ® and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) combination (PycnoQ10^®) taken by stable heart failure patients as an adjunct to medical treatment naturally strengthens the heart, increasing the blood volume ejected with each beat. As a consequence, the oxygen-rich blood supply to the organs improves, and patients become more physically energetic. Furthermore, blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rates were improved among patients. Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) is an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree and has been clinically proven to improve endothelial function and blood flow. As evidenced by this study, Pycnogenol^®, in combination with CoQ10, offers a potent contribution to heart health management.  Each year there are an estimated 400,000 newly diagnosed cases of heart failure in the U.S., according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Heart failure is a common, chronic, long-term condition that develops as a result of hypertension, when with heart chamber walls wear out and heart muscle weaken. The disease can be costly, disabling and potentially deadly and is characterized by the heart’s inability to pump or eject sufficient amounts of blood to the organs.  “Many conditions that lead to heart failure cannot be reversed, but heart failure can often be medically managed with good results,” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, a lead researcher of the study. “This study shows that a combination of Pycnogenol^® and CoQ10 offers an effective, natural solution as adjunct for heart health management.” The 12-week single-blinded, placebo-controlled observational study was conducted at Chieti-Pescara University in Italy and investigated the effectiveness of Pycnogenol^® and Kaneka CoQ10 (PycnoQ10^®) supplementation in 53 patients. Patients were between the ages of 54 and 68 and had mild to moderate hypertension, with stable congestive heart failure. Patients recruited had been diagnosed with heart failure with an ejection fraction lower than 40 percent of their original capacity. The ejection fraction, the pumped blood volume to total left heart ventricle volume, was measured by high-resolution ultrasound. Additional inclusion criteria were a stable level of heart failure within the past three months and stable New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II (mild symptoms) or III (moderate symptoms) heart failure classification. NYHA functional classification system relates symptoms to everyday activities and the patient's quality of life. All patients were taking prescribed heart medication and most patients used three or more drugs for heart failure treatment.  Patients were divided into two groups: One group received capsules with a combination of 15 mg Pycnogenol^® and 50 mg CoQ10 from Kaneka. The second group received placebo capsules in addition to their individual prescription medications. The treatment and control groups were equivalent at baseline. Patients were instructed to take seven capsules, in the morning after breakfast, each day. Patients’ exercise capacity, as judged by walking on a treadmill, ejection fraction and distal edema (swelling in the leg) were evaluated. At the conclusion of the 12-week study, there was significant decrease of systolic and diastolic pressure as well as a decrease in heart rate in the PycnoQ10^® group, compared to marginal improvements in the control group. Systolic and diastolic pressure was notably lowered with PycnoQ10^® from 139.2 to 133.2 mmHg and 82.3 to 77.3 mmHg, versus 140.3 to 139.5 mmHg and 83.4 to 81.2 mmHg in the control group. Heart rate was also significantly lowered from 78.4 to 74.2 beats per minute as compared to 79.1 to 78.4 in the control group. There was also considerable decrease in respiratory rate in PycnoQ10^® patients from 23.1 to 21.2 breaths per minute versus 23.3 to 22.3 in the control group. The treatment with PycnoQ10^® was found to significantly increase heart ejection fraction by 22.4 percent after treatment, whereas it only slightly decreased in the control group.  The physical abilities of patients improved substantially as evidenced by 3.3 times longer walking distance on a treadmill in PycnoQ10^® treated patients, versus marginal improvement in the control group. As the heart is strengthened, a larger blood volume is pumped with every beat. This allows the heart to lower the beat rate and still sufficiently supply body organs with oxygen. The quality of life of patients also improved with PycnoQ10^®, as validated with the Karnofsky Index, a performance scale that rates patients according to their functional impairment. At baseline patients had Karnofsky values of 43 percent, which is categorized as “handicapped and dependent on qualified medical help.” After treatment with PycnoQ10^® the values were up to 54.7 percent, described as “help and medical assistance are often required.” No significant improvement of Karnofsky Index was observed in the control group. The distal edema, expressed as the percentage of the initial volumetric value, decreased significantly to 72 percent in PycnoQ10^® treated patients but was increased by four percent in the control group. Nine PycnoQ10^® treated patients (out of 32) and three (out of 21) taking placebo improved NYHA class.  “Coenzyme Q10 has been extensively researched for its ability to strengthen the heart muscle, specifically in patients with heart failure. Preclinical trials have suggested that Pycnogenol^® strengthens heart chamber walls and dilates arteries,” said Dr. Belcaro. “These preliminary observations suggest that the respective contributions of Coenzyme Q10 and Pycnogenol^® in PycnoQ10^® may significantly improve heart health.” The study showed decreased blood pressure and heart rate, confirming results from prior studies using Pycnogenol^® and CoQ10. Previous studies have found that Pycnogenol^® significantly improves endothelial function and consequently improves hypertension as well as long-term consequences such as renal function problems. To date, Pycnogenol^® has been investigated in more than 30 clinical trials related to cardiovascular health.  About Pycnogenol^® Pycnogenol^® is a natural plant extract originating from the bark of the maritime pine that grows along the coast of southwest France and is found to contain a unique combination of procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic acids, which offer extensive natural health benefits. The extract has been widely studied for the past 40 years and has more than 280 published studies and review articles ensuring safety and efficacy as an ingredient. Today, Pycnogenol^® is available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide.  Horphag Research Ltd. is the exclusive worldwide supplier of Pycnogenol^® (pic-noj-en-all) French maritime pine bark extract. Pycnogenol^® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd.; Guernsey and its applications are protected by U.S. patents #5,720,956 / #6,372,266 and other international patents. Horphag Research Ltd. Is the recipient of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Health Ingredients Excellence in Research Award.]]> Pycno_Heart health Research_Heart health Partner_Heart health Media_General Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:03:00 +0200 http://www.pycnogenol.com.nerthus.ch-meta.net/index.php?id=139&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=106&cHash=e3c18982e0a5d9402ab50e422a7dee84 Download the Pycnogenol Report (PDF) Download the Pycnogenol Report (PDF)]]> Report Newsletter Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:00:00 +0200