Pycnogenol reduces CRP and improves OA

Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis in a study published in the December issue of the journal Redox Report. In the 55-patient analysis, as well as improving OA and pain, the agent significantly lowered plasma levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein.

Results showed that Pycnogenol, which is owned by Guernsey firm Horphag Research, significantly lowered CRP from average 3.9mg/L at baseline to 1.1mg/L, reflecting essentially healthy levels. In the placebo group, a marginally lower CRP level was detected. Other blood parameters indicative of acute inflammation likewise decreased with Pycnogenol, such as fibrinogen (lowered 37.1 %) and reactive oxygen species (down 29.9 %).