Raw material profile

Pine Bark Extract

PROVENANCE

Pinus pinaster, also known as maritime pine or cluster pine, is a tree that originally comes from the Mediterranean region. It grows mainly in countries such as Spain, Portugal and France, where it forms large forests. For centuries, the maritime pine has been used, mainly for its wood and resin, which is used for various industrial purposes. Today, Pinus pinaster is also grown in other parts of the world, including North Africa and Australia. These trees thrive particularly well on sandy, nutrient-poor soils and are known for their robustness and resistance to harsh climates.

MEDICINAL USE

The use of the bark of trees such as the French maritime pine for medicinal purposes has deep historical roots. Even Hippocrates used tree bark to treat inflammation. In the 1940s, Dr. Jacques Masquelier studied pine bark because of its high content of proanthocyanidins, which have strong antioxidant and possibly anti-inflammatory properties.

Masquelier developed a standardized extraction process for the production of pine bark extract that maximizes the content of natural polyphenolic compounds. These compounds are known as oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs) or procyanidolic oligomers (PCOs). OPCs are widely distributed in the plant kingdom and are found in foods such as cranberries, blueberries, apples, tea and even red wine.

Pharmacokinetic studies show that pine bark extracts are easily absorbed, metabolized and excreted by humans.

OLIGOMERIC PROANTHOCYANIDINS (OPC)

Proanthocyanidins are among the natural compounds with antioxidant properties. These compounds help to neutralize free radicals that are produced by environmental factors and normal metabolic processes in the body. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which can damage cells. Proanthocyanidins help to protect cells by stabilizing cell membranes and protecting important biomolecules such as proteins, lipids and DNA from oxidative damage. This cell protection could help to maintain good health.

ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES

The antioxidant potency of oligomeric proanthocyanidins may exceed that of many well-known antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. Studies suggest that they may be particularly effective at neutralizing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which are major sources of oxidative stress. This antioxidant effect may be useful for preventing damage to blood vessels and connective tissue, potentially supporting cardiovascular health.

MICROCIRCULATION & SKIN HEALTH

Proanthocyanidins could have a positive effect on microcirculation and blood vessel health. These compounds can support blood flow in small vessels. This could help to ensure that nutrients and oxygen are better distributed throughout the body. Improved microcirculation could also promote vascular health. Healthy blood vessels are important to avoid swelling and fluid retention in the tissue. Proanthocyanidins could also strengthen the vascular walls and protect them from damage caused by oxidative processes.
Proanthocyanidins could therefore also be beneficial for skin health, because good microcirculation and healthy vessels help to supply the skin with important nutrients. This could keep the skin elastic and radiant. In addition, proanthocyanidins could protect the skin from external influences that can lead to premature aging.

95% PINE BARK EXTRACT

The Pinus pinaster bark extract with 95% proanthocyanidins used for ASPRIVA® GLOW is a carefully selected raw material that is ideally suited for our high-quality water-soluble food supplement. The extract is of a very high purity, with the proanthocyanidins content confirmed at 95%. It meets strict European and USP standards, which ensure that it is free from harmful impurities, pesticides and heavy metals. The USP standard means that the ingredient meets the strict quality and safety guidelines of the United States Pharmacopeia and is therefore pure, safe and effective for use in dietary supplements. In addition, it is naturally GMO-free and also suitable for vegans.