Why would I want to consume pine bark extract?!
With a very strong, bitter taste and well, the fact it’s extracted from the bark of a tree, you may be wondering why we love our Organic Pine Bark Extract so much. After all, why would anyone want to consume something that’s generally not thought of as edible to humans?
We hear you! But please just hear us out on this one. Pine bark has exceptional health benefits, and guess what? It’s perfectly edible, even for humans! So without further ado, here’s why you should be consuming pine bark extract on a regular basis…
Pine bark extract helps to support a healthy immune system
Pine bark extract is rich in a group of flavonoid antioxidants called proanthocyanidins. These are the same antioxidants that are found in red grapes, cacao, black tea and red wine, as they give dark plant-based foods and drinks their beautifully deep, dark red, brown, blue or purple color
Proanthocyanidins are much studied for their antioxidant effects, which include helping to scavenge or neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are harmful, unstable molecules that can damage our DNA and cells, including the cells of our immune system. The more antioxidants we consume, the fewer free radicals can exist and cause damage, helping to support good immunity.
Pine bark is heart healthy!
Perhaps the most remarkable benefit of taking pine bark extract, is its ability to help protect the heart. Studies have shown that those with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes could improve their blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels after taking pine bark extract for 12 weeks.
This is thought to be due to the effect of pine bark on the lining of the blood vessels, called the endothelium. Taking pine bark supplements can improve the availability of nitric oxide to the endothelium helping it support better circulation and blood flow.
These benefits have also been found to help those with poor leg circulation and erectile dysfunction, which are both linked to problems with poor blood flow.
Those with metabolic syndrome, often seen as a precursor to heart disease and type 2 diabetes could also benefit. Studies show that pine bark extract can help to reduce blood sugar and blood pressure as well as reducing waist size and working to improve kidney function.
The skin can benefit, too.
Other studies have found that pine bark extract can also benefit the skin by boosting the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, which help to keep the skin hydrated and plump, helping to make it appear more youthful.
As pine bark extract also has a powerful antioxidant effect, it also benefits the skin by neutralizing the free radicals that can dull the skin, cause inflammation and wrinkling.
So what are you waiting for?
We do say that pine bark extract isn’t for the faint of heart, as its taste is really quite bitter. But with all these heart-healthy benefits, even the faint-hearted can benefit. So add a small amount to herbal tea or a sweet fruit smoothie each day and reap the rewards!
