PureBulk

Supplement Facts Volumetrics Certificate of Analysis

Related Products:

Pine Bark Extract Gelatin Capsules and Vegetarian Capsules, Grape Seed/Pine Bark Capsules

What is Pine Bark Extract?

Pine bark extract, rich in proanthocyanidin, is a bioflavanoid complex extracted from the bark of the Pinus massoniana Lamb pine tree. It is a powerful antioxidant.

Antioxidants play a crucial role in repairing and protecting cells in the body. They help shield the body from free radical molecules, which are harmful byproducts of metabolism and exposure to environmental pollutants.

Popular antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and the mineral selenium. Researchers have termed the group of antioxidants found in pine bark extract oligomeric proanthocyanidins, or simply OPCs. OPCs (also referred to as PCOs) are some of the most potent antioxidants available.

Another OPC supplement on the market is grape seed extract, one of the cheapest and most widely used sources of OPCs today. Although both contain proanthocyanidin, they are two distinct and chemically different substances.

Pine bark extract has been shown to help strengthen and repair tissues made of collagen, a protein that builds blood vessels, skin and connective tissue.

Pine bark extract has been shown to be a more effective antioxidant than either vitamin C or vitamin E, because absorption in the bloodstream only takes 20 minutes and works for up to 72 hours.

Pine bark extract also works synergistically with vitamin C to assist the body in recycling vitamin E, and is one of the select antioxidants that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier to help protect brain tissue.

Health Benefits of Pine Bark Extract

Pine bark extract is valued for its high levels of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), antioxidants that can scavenge free radicals from the human body. Protective effects from environmental stresses such as cigarette smoking and pollution have been noted as has an enhancement of normal metabolic health processes.

Pine bark extract also appears to recycle ascorbyl and tocopheryl radicals, thus helping to preserve healthy vitamin C and E levels.

Preliminary evidence suggests that pine bark extract might stimulate the immune system. It seems to stimulate and bolster natural killer cell activity and enhances T- and B-cell function in animal subjects.

It is difficult to get the amount of OPC needed for antioxidant protection from dietary sources alone. Supplementation is generally recommended.

Purity and Concentration of Pine Bark Extract

Purebulk's food-grade powder is pure pine bark extract. It contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents. It is assayed by the manufacturer to contain more than 90% proanthocyanidins.

Suggested Use of Pine Bark Extract

The suggested serving size for pine bark extract is 400 milligrams daily, depending upon individual needs. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for pine bark extract here. A serving size of 1/8 teaspoon equals 355 milligrams(mg), so take a slightly rounded 1/8 teaspoon for a 400 milligram serving.

Potential Side Effects of Pine Bark Extract

Pine bark extract is safe at suggested serving sizes. Its effectiveness may be increased with the use of other antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, and the mineral selenium. Diets rich in foods that contain antioxidants and bioflavonoids, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, may also contribute to its effectiveness.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of Pine Bark Extract

Mix pine bark extract with water or juice and drink. This product also comes in pine bark extract capsules.

How should I store it?

You will receive this powder in a resealable bag. Store it in a cool, dry, dark location. Reseal tightly between uses.

References & Further Research

Wikipedia: Proanthocyanidin

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.