Respiratory: Colds, cough, runny nose, sore throat, decongestant, allergies, asthma, flus, Tb (white pine)

Ears: Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Eyes: Retinopathy

Cardiovascular: Chronic venous insufficiency, high blood pressure, varicose veins/spider veins

Gastrointestinal: Laxative, antihelminthic (intestinal worms)

Genitourinary: Erectile dysfunction, UTIs, endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, male fertility, kidney, and bladder problems. May improve ED (erectile dysfunction)

Musculoskeletal: Topical anesthetic, rheumatism, Scurvy, coolant, arthritis

Neurologic: Boosts brain function, and may help memory

Skin: Healing (gum/resin), emollient, burns, boils, sores

Mental Health: Stimulant, ADHD, boosts brain function

Glucose: Helps to decrease blood sugar

Immunity: May help boost immunity (white pine)

Cancer: Possibly helpful

Infectious Disease: Gonorrhea

Other: Energy, athletic endurance, a good source of vitamin C

                                                           *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Headaches, dizziness, stomach problems, mouth sores, halitosis (bad breath), irritation of skin and mucus membranes, increased bronchospasm

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Autoimmune problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, liver problems/hepatitis. Contraindicated in those on immunosuppressants (including corticosteroids); caution in those on antidiabetic medication and blood thinners

FORMS: Extract, capsules, powder, tea, ointments, gels, inhalant. Pine needle oil is used for respiratory issues as well as muscle aches and pains (topical)

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

Allergy Research Group Pycnogenol 100 capsules - NSF certified - (order through Fullscript link here)

Klaire Labs/SFI Health 50mg capsules - NSF certified - (order through Fullscript link here)

DOSAGES

As directed on the product label. Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products

Blood Pressure Support 100–150 mg daily

Osteoarthritis: 100-150 mg daily

Circulation-venous insufficiency: 100-150 mg daily

Asthma: 1 mg/kg of body weight

Menstrual discomfort: 30–60 mg daily

Skin health / antioxidant support: 50–100 mg daily

Cognitive support: 100–150 mg daily

Note: Mentioned uses on the German Commission E

For further information about herbal dosages see Epocrates onliine ($)

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.