New Study Finds Pycnogenol Improves Psoriasis Symptoms

HOBOKEN, N.J.— A new peer-reviewed study found that supplementation with Pycnogenol (by Horphag Research), a standardized natural plant extract from French maritime pine tree bark, significantly improved the painful and visible symptoms of psoriasis, including redness, flaking, thickness and total surface area of affected skin patches (Panminerva Med. 2014 Mar;56(1):41-8). Psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the U.S., impacting nearly 8 million Americans and may lead to psoriatic arthritis and diminished quality of life.

The 12-week study, conducted at Chieti-Pescara University in Italy, researchers treated and monitored 73 participants between the ages of 30 and 45 who suffered from moderate to severe psoriasis. All participants managed their psoriasis with standard management and 38 participants supplemented with 150 mg per day of Pycnogenol in addition to their standard management. Results were reported using a number of metrics: an observational Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score, a patient-rated Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score, measured oxidative stress (plasma free radicals) level, and measured results from two separate skin moisture monitors that registered the amount of water in the skin, the amount of oil/lipids in the skin and the quantity of peeling or flaking skin. All participants registered a minimal PASI score of 10 at beginning of the study.

Over the 12 weeks, Pycnogenol decreased the area of skin affected by psoriasis, reduced redness, skin hardening and body area affected by psoriasis, increased content of water and oils in the skin, reduced the need for standard management drugs and reduced oxidative stress. Adding Pycnogenol to dermatologist-directed standard management produced significant results over standard management-alone. Standard management for each patient was determined by their dermatologist and common treatments included moisturizers, vitamin D supplements, corticosteroids, light therapy sessions, salicylic acid and immunosuppressants, among others. Pycnogenol was shown to improve the efficacy of standard management practices without interference.

For more information on Pycnogenol, visit booth 547 at Ingredient Marketplace, June 2-3 in New York City.