Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Brands

Health News

Pycnogenol Reduces Urinary Tract Infections

As concerns mount over treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) with antibiotics, research shows that Pycnogenol may be a natural solution.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Women who repeatedly get urinary tract infections are becoming more concerned about overuse of antibiotics and doctors are left with a dilemma, as there is no other routine treatment for the condition. But a recent study found that Pycnogenol, a proprietary extract from French maritime pine bark, reduces the incidence of UTIs and interstitial cystitis, a painful inflammation of the bladder that can be mistaken for a UTI.

Study participants had recently experienced repeated multiple UTIs or bouts of interstitial cystitis. They were divided into three groups. One group received 150 mg daily of Pycnogenol to treat their UTIs, another received 400 mg of a cranberry extract, and the third did not receive a supplement.

After two months of daily supplementation, those taking Pycnogenol experienced fewer UTIs or bouts of interstitial cystitis, and more women in this group were symptom-free, compared to the cranberry and other groups. Neither supplement produced side effects.

Related: