Supplementation during first few days of illness reduces number of affected days
Researchers from Italy have reported that
daily supplementation with Pycnogenol® within four days of the first symptom of a
common cold reduced the number of affected days and shortened the duration of
all the key symptoms including sore throat, sneezing, running nose, cough and
temperature.
The study involved 146 healthy people aged
between 25 and 65 – at the first sign of a cold 70 participants chose to take
the pine bark extract (100mg per day) in addition to their usual preferred
treatment (not including a flu vaccination). The rest of the participants took
their usual preferred treatment only.
Severity of cold symptoms also reduced
Results showed that within four days of the
first symptom supplementation with Pycnogenol® was associated with an average of
1.1 fewer days affected with the illness. Furthermore the pine bark extract was
associated with a reduction in the demand for additional treatments including nasal
drops, aspirin and vitamin C, antihistamines and aerosols.
Pycnogenol's effective is down to it's potent anti-inflammatory properties
Dr Gianni Belcaro, lead researcher said “The significant effect of Pycnogenol® to
treat nasal congestion and runny nose can be attributed to the extract’s
natural inflammatory, anti-edema and anti-oxidant qualities and for its ability
to improve blood circulation. These findings are supported by decades of
research on Pycnogenol’s ability to naturally boost the immune system."
Great for general well being too!
Pycnogenol® is extracted from the bark of
french maritime pine trees and contains procyanidins, bioflavonoids and organic
acids – it has been the subject of a multitude of clinical studies suggesting wide
ranging health benefits. This includes cardiovascular, joint, cognitive and eye
health as well as hay fever, PMS and menopause symptoms - so not only is it worth taking at the first sign of the sniffles but a great supplement to take for general well being!
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.