Pine Bark - Pinus ssp.

The extract is water soluble and is quickly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Pine bark is very easily absorbed by the body. The antioxidants found in Pine bark are more powerful than vitamin E and vitamin C. If Pine bark is taken with vitamin C and vitamin E, it enhances the effects of these vitamins. Supplements of Pine bark increase the body’s production of nitrous oxide (NO), which contributes to the relaxation of the muscles in the walls of arteries and thereby the dilation of the arteries.
The substance is able to inhibit proteolytic enzymes such as collagenase and elastase, which degrade connective tissue. It can therefore be used against wrinkles.
The substance is good for any disease or condition caused or worsened by free radicals; for inflammation, swollen joints, and sport injuries. It is used to strengthen blood vessels, for unattractive leg veins, blood pressure, heart diseases, and more.
Pine bark is therefore used as a supplement for athletes, people with stress, elderly persons, smokers, and people at risk of developing cardiovascular disease and chronic venous insufficiency.
Symptoms like oedema (swelling), leg pain, and heavy legs may be relieved and improved, presumably by improving circulation and strengthening the capillary walls. The substance is also used as an antimicrobial substance and as an immune stimulant.
Dosage
Take 0.7 - 1,4 mg. per pound of bodyweight the first week. If you weigh 11 stone (154 pounds) then you take 100 - 200 mg. daily for a week. After this, you continue on half dose, that is 50 - 100 mg. daily.
Side effects
Pine bark does not have any known side effects.
You can find more information under "Bioflavonoids".