Pine bark may reduce osteoarthritis knee pain.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the journal Nutrition Research reveals Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, improved physical function by 52% in patients suffering from osteoarthritis.

"Pycnogenol was chosen due to a history of studies of the extract to alleviate inflammation by inhibiting COX-1, COX-2 and the pro-inflammatory 'master-switch' nuclear factor-kappa B," said lead researcher Dr. Ronald Watson from the University of Arizona. "Pycnogenol offers a safe nutritional approach to significantly reduce pain and improve physical function of arthritic joints. It controls inflammation and thus ideally complements existing strategies that comprise delivery of 'building blocks' for replacement of degenerated cartilage."

In this study, 35 volunteers (average age 42) were randomly assigned a daily dose of Pycnogenol (50 mg, 3 times a day) or placebo for 3 months. Patients reported arthritic pain using the Western Ontario and McMasters Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index after 30, 60 and 90 days. Participants also were instructed to indicate the frequency and dosage of NSAIDS and COX-2 inhibitor usage.

After 2 months of supplementation, physical function and pain scores improved in the Pycnogenol group. After 3 months in the Pycnogenol group, there was a reduction of 43% in pain, 35% in stiffness, 52% in physical function subscales and 49% composite WOMAC. The placebo group showed no significant scores throughout the entire study. Additionally, further reduction in the number of NSAIDS and COX-2 inhibitor pills and number of days taking medication was noted in the Pycnogenol group. Researchers believe this study is the first randomized clinical trial to show Pycnogenol's effectiveness in alleviating the clinical symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.

For further information: 312-546-3523.