A new peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Angiology shows that Pycnogenol, which is the standardized extract of French maritime pine tree bark, may significantly improve the appearance, swelling and discomfort of varicose veins and spider vein clusters that are caused by pregnancy.
The study was conducted on 133 women at Chieti-Pescara University in Italy. Participants wore compression stockings, which is the recommended treatment for varicose and spider veins. The Pycnogenol group wore compression stockings and took 100mg of Pycnogenol daily.
The women in the Pycnogenol group experienced multiple effects over six months after beginning treatment four to eight weeks after giving birth, including a significant reduction in the number of varicose veins, a significant decrease in visible clusters of spider veins, plus significant reductions in leg cramps, minor pains and discomfort involved with prolonged standing, swelling, and reduced the overall instance in requests for additional treatment, compared to the women in the control group.
Approximately 30 per cent of women who are post-pregnancy experience enlarged veins, and if left untreated could lead to a chronic vein condition, blood clots and ulcers.
“Because some varicose and spider veins may improve on their own after a year or so post-pregnancy, standard treatment is to simply wear compression stockings, which is met with low compliance because patients often find them uncomfortable,” said physician Dr. Steven Lamm in a press release. “This study shows that Pycnogenol can significantly reduce the visibility of veins, swelling and pain post-pregnancy and improve blood flow in a fraction of the time as it takes when treated with compression stockings alone.”
Pycnogenol is available in over 700 dietary supplements and multi-vitamins around the world.
