Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Pycnogenol, an extract from French maritime pine bark, has been investigated for its effects on blood clot prevention due to its reported antiplatelet and vascular protective properties. Several small clinical studies and mechanistic investigations suggest that Pycnogenol may reduce platelet aggregation and improve endothelial function, both of which are relevant to the prevention of blood clots. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (2004) found that Pycnogenol supplementation (100-200 mg/day) reduced platelet aggregation and improved microcirculation in individuals at risk of thrombosis during long flights. Another study observed a reduction in edema and improved venous tone in patients with chronic venous insufficiency.

The proposed mechanisms include antioxidant activity, modulation of nitric oxide production (which helps regulate vascular tone), and inhibition of platelet activation. However, most clinical studies are relatively small, short in duration, and often include participants at moderate rather than high risk for venous thromboembolism. Major medical guidelines do not currently recommend Pycnogenol for routine thromboprophylaxis. In summary, there is modest scientific evidence from small human studies and plausible biological mechanisms, but large-scale, high-quality trials are lacking. Thus, while some scientific validation exists, the overall strength of evidence remains low (rated 2/5).

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