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Mars Bark Extract

Also known as: Pine Bark Extract, PBE, Pycnogenol, Pinus pinaster extract

Overview

Pine Bark Extract (PBE) is a dietary supplement derived from the bark of pine trees, primarily *Pinus pinaster*. It is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. PBE is commonly used for its potential cardiovascular benefits, antioxidant effects, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests it may help reduce cardiometabolic risk factors such as body weight, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and LDL cholesterol. It is available in various forms, including capsules and tablets. The quality of evidence varies, with some studies showing significant benefits while others have methodological limitations. PBE is considered a moderately researched supplement with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses available.

Benefits

Pine Bark Extract has shown potential benefits in several areas. Meta-analyses suggest that PBE may reduce body weight, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), fasting blood sugar (FBS), LDL cholesterol, and HbA1c levels, potentially benefiting cardiometabolic health. Some studies indicate improvements in lipid profiles, though results are inconsistent. These benefits are generally observed in populations with cardiometabolic risk factors. The clinical significance varies, with some studies showing modest but statistically significant improvements. The time course of benefits is not well-defined, but effects are typically observed within weeks to months of supplementation.

How it works

Pine Bark Extract acts primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. It may improve vascular function and reduce oxidative stress. PBE interacts with the cardiovascular system by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. It may target endothelial function and nitric oxide production. The bioavailability of PBE components is generally good, though specific data on absorption rates are limited. These mechanisms contribute to the observed benefits in cardiometabolic health and overall well-being.

Side effects

Pine Bark Extract is generally considered safe, though comprehensive safety data are limited. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, may include gastrointestinal upset. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include mild allergic reactions or interactions with medications, although these are not well-documented. Serious adverse effects are rare and not well-documented. Potential interactions with blood thinners or diabetes medications require caution. It is contraindicated for pregnant and breastfeeding women unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. Individuals with chronic conditions should consult healthcare providers before use.

Dosage

The typical dosage of Pine Bark Extract ranges from 50 mg to 300 mg per day. Most studies use doses between 100 mg to 200 mg per day. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 300 mg per day are less commonly studied. Timing is not well-studied, but consistent daily intake is recommended. Capsules or tablets are common forms. Bioavailability may be influenced by food intake, but specific data are limited. No specific cofactors are required for PBE to be effective.

FAQs

Can Pine Bark Extract interact with medications?

Yes, PBE may interact with blood thinners or diabetes medications. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are taking other medications.

Is Pine Bark Extract safe for everyone?

PBE is generally considered safe, but comprehensive safety data are limited. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use.

How long does it take to see results from Pine Bark Extract?

Benefits may be observed within weeks to months of consistent daily intake. Individual results may vary.

What is the best way to take Pine Bark Extract?

Consistent daily intake is recommended. Capsules or tablets are common forms. Timing is not well-studied, but taking it at the same time each day may be beneficial.

Is Pine Bark Extract a cure for cardiovascular diseases?

No, PBE is not a cure-all. It may be used as an adjunct therapy to support cardiovascular health, but should not replace conventional medical treatments.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31585179/ – This study suggests that Pine Bark Extract may reduce cardiometabolic risk factors such as body weight, diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, LDL cholesterol, and HbA1c. The findings support the potential benefits of PBE for cardiometabolic health, though further research is needed to confirm these effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39987124/ – This meta-analysis found no significant effect of Pine Bark Extract on blood pressure. The study highlights the inconsistent results across different trials and suggests that more research is needed to clarify the effects of PBE on blood pressure.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1074248413511691 – This systematic review indicates inconsistent effects of Pine Bark Extract on lipid profiles, with some studies showing reductions in total cholesterol and LDL. The review points out methodological flaws in some included studies, suggesting the need for higher-quality research to confirm these effects.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0003319719889428 – This meta-analysis, involving 626 participants across 7 trials, did not specify the duration of the studies but focused on the effect of Pycnogenol on blood pressure. The results indicated no significant effect on blood pressure, highlighting the variability in study outcomes and the need for more consistent research in this area.
https://examine.com/research-feed/study/dNeWR9/ – This study, as summarized by Examine.com, likely investigates the effects of Pine Bark Extract on various health outcomes. Further details would be needed to provide a more specific summary of the study's findings and limitations.