Proanthocyanidin

Pycnogenol, is an ingredient from the Pine Bark of a maritime pine that grows in southwest France.

Proanthocyanidin health benefits extend far beyond their antioxidant properties. Proanthocyanidins are also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-carcinogenic and cardiovascular system-protective. Proanthocyanidins help wounds heal, reduce the pain from pancreatitis, reduce insulin resistance in diabetics and help protect from drug toxicity. Proanthocyanidins can help lower your levels of low-density lipoproteins, or the "bad" cholesterol. Antioxidants also decrease the oxidation of LDL, which may lead to the build up of plaque on the walls of your arteries. Finally, proanthocyanidins have been used to improve night vision and slow down the degenerative effects of aging on skin collagen and elastin.