HealthMap

Pycnogenol and Nitric Oxide Production

• Scientific mechanism: Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) stimulates the enzyme endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which is responsible for the production of nitric oxide (NO) in blood vessels.
• Vascular benefits: By increasing the bioavailability of nitric oxide, pycnogenol helps improve endothelial function, enhances vasodilation, and supports healthy blood circulation and blood pressure.
• Synergistic factors: The effectiveness of pycnogenol on nitric oxide pathways is significantly enhanced when combined with adequate levels of certain essential nutrients, particularly vitamin C, vitamin E, and specific amino acids like L-arginine.
• Antioxidant protection: As a potent antioxidant, pycnogenol also helps protect newly formed nitric oxide molecules from oxidative degradation by free radicals, allowing them to remain active longer in the bloodstream.