Vitacost Pine Bark Extract - Standardized to 95% OPC -- 100 mg - 200 Capsules

Pine bark extract (Pinus massoniana from Asia) such as this product is one of the most common formulations used while French maritime pine bark extract- Pycnogenol (Pinus pinaster is from Europe) is a patented blend of this powerful nutrient. The pycnogenol version is sourced from a protected area of pine forest in southwestern France, grown exclusively under strict French forestry legislation for consumer quality and safety. It promises to be preservative and herbicide free and is generally about 5x more in cost. If you have a more serious condition, I would compare them to see if you find better effects using the pycnogenol, however for general health and benefits, I find this version to be effective and has the same benefits using either one, just may be potency differences. I have told many people also using 1 pill of this with 1000mg of L-Arginine 2x a day has scientific research backing its use for improving ED/sexual health for both men and women. There is also a 300 capsule version if you take it ongoing for the best value.Some of the effects of either are as follows:Helps the body regenerate vitamin CReduces risk of cataractsImproves heart health and blood pressure controlHelps reduce varicose vein swellingAntiplatelet properties help keep platelets from sticking together (similar to aspirin, fish oil and krill oil)Protects against hay fever, allergies, and lung diseaseReduces joint inflammation due to arthritisReduces menstrual disordersImproves memory functionMay help improve fertility by improving sperm qualityAppears helpful for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)Improves immune system functionHelps with wound healing and reduces skin bruisingProvides anti-aging benefits due to its protection against free radicals with benefits for skin’s collagen and elastinHas my review been of help to you? If so, would you consider hitting the "helpful" button below? I'd greatly appreciate it. Thank you!

Be aware that the pictured product and the Pinus Pinaster extract on the label is NOT what you are going to get with this. Pinus Pinaster is the same species of pine that Pycnogenol is made from. You are going to get a relabeled product made from Masson Pine extract, which is evidently a far inferior product.I've been taking this product for going on 10 years now. I used to purchase directly from Vitacost. I've always been very, very happy with it, both in cost and quality. As soon as I started taking this new, relabeled product, swelling in my feet that had been gone for years showed back up. And, I'm feeling joint pain and some other inflammatory pain that had been gone for years reappeared. In my estimation, this product no longer works at all. Don't know if the problem is the different species of pine tree. Or, if they just screwed up the extract in this lot. But, It's like I stopped taking Pine Bark all of the sudden, When, in fact, I'm taking 400 mg per day. My wife also complained that hip pain that she hasn't felt in years is back since we started on this new bottle. So, I had to go out and pay a buck a pill for Pycnogenol. Still looking for a good alternative to Pycnogenol. But, this isn't one any longer. Just FYI..

I have MS and as those of you that do also, many of us have problems with eyes during our worse bouts. Mine happen to have the Northern Lights go off around perimeter of my eyes, but if I take 2 pine bark extract or pycnogenol, and then another two a few hours later and same every 8 hrs til problem subside. Normally only takes two batches.

Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract) is derived from the bark of the French maritime pine tree. Studies have shown that it is effective in treating many inflammatory conditions, skin disorders, and poor blood circulation because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This statement is not evaluated by the FDA, and should be used after consulting with a licensed physician and/or pharmacist.

Large quantity. I found out before I bought the pine bark not only help with womens changes of menopause but helps diabetics bring their sugar down. I will keep and eye out on my levels and I check often throughout the day.

Doctor recommended it

Pricing is good

I like the cost effectiveness and quality of this product. I have not completed any medical test to indicate that pine bark does what it claims. If people do not provide actually and verifiable data on any reviews they make, then discount them as space cares of company people.