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Types of Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol): Forms & Bioavailability

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Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Pycnogenol (patented French maritime pine bark extract)HighMost clinically studied form — standardized to 65-75% procyanidins; over 160 published studies
Generic Pine Bark Extract (OPC standardized)Moderate-HighCost-effective alternative — look for standardization to 85-95% OPCs; quality varies by manufacturer
Prelox (Pycnogenol + L-arginine aspartate)HighErectile function — specific combination studied in multiple clinical trials for ED

Pycnogenol (patented French maritime pine bark extract)

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Most clinically studied form — standardized to 65-75% procyanidins; over 160 published studies.

Generic Pine Bark Extract (OPC standardized)

Bioavailability: Moderate-High. Best for: Cost-effective alternative — look for standardization to 85-95% OPCs; quality varies by manufacturer.

Prelox (Pycnogenol + L-arginine aspartate)

Bioavailability: High. Best for: Erectile function — specific combination studied in multiple clinical trials for ED.

Full Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) Guide

References

  1. (). Treatment of erectile dysfunction with pycnogenol and L-arginine. Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy. DOI
  2. (). Effects of Pycnogenol on endothelial function in patients with stable coronary artery disease: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. European Heart Journal. DOI
  3. (). Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, improves endothelial function of hypertensive patients. Life Sciences. DOI