Pycnogenol (French pine bark extract) is a powerful antioxidant that comes from French maritime pine bark. It’s long been touted for its ability to fight the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Although it has been shown to benefit the body in many ways, from increased insulin sensitivity to fat burning, the latest data shows that this stuff is also good for your brain.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Neurosurgical Sciences, scientists from Italy reported that 12 weeks of Pycnogenol supplementation (150 mg/day) significantly lowers blood free radicals (35%) and enhances brain function. The researchers combined supplementation with a health plan to enhance mental performance and reduce oxidative stress. They found that cognitive tasks and mood were significantly improved with Pycnogenol supplementation compared to controls.