Pine Bark Extract (Pinus pinaster)
Pine Bark Extract (Pinus pinaster) contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins - also known as OPCs – which are antioxidants that help neutralize unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. Free oxygen radicals, which are by-products of the normal activity of cells, contribute to many diseases.
Pine Bark Extract supplements come in capsules and as powder.
"A few small clinical trials suggest that specific antioxidants from diet or vitamin supplements might improve asthma control or lung function in asthmatic children or adults."
Some studies have found that oxygen free radicals have a causal role in auto-immune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
However, a report by the Harvard School of Public Health, found that "Randomized, placebo-controlled trials—which, when performed well, provide the strongest evidence—offer little support that taking vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, or other single antioxidants provides substantial protection against heart disease, cancer, or other chronic conditions. The results of the largest such trials have been mostly negative."
