Pycnogenol is fast gaining recognition for its role in supporting circulation, cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing. Derived from maritime pine trees, this powerful extract is packed with bioflavonoids known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which promote the production of nitric oxide, a vasodilator.
For those embarking on long-haul travel, it may offer valuable protection against the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) so could this natural supplement be the key to healthier travel by supporting healthier blood flow? Our latest blog explores the research behind Pycnogenol’s benefits in this regard.
Pine bark extract
It may not be the most well-known or easy to pronounce supplement on the market, but Pycnogenol, also known as French maritime pine bark, is quickly growing in popularity. Pycnogenol comes from the maritime pine trees (pinus pinaster) and is native to Mediterranean countries such as Italy, France, and Croatia. It contains a natural blend of bioflavonoids, including catechin, epicatechin, and phenolic acids—compounds known for their broad range of health-supportive properties.
Pine bark benefits
These bioactives offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to promote the production of nitric oxide, which supports blood vessel dilation and enhances circulation. Additionally, they contribute to the body’s synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid, supporting skin health, joint function, and overall tissue integrity. I, iii
Pycnogenol is widely recognized for its role in supporting circulatory and cardiovascular health, helping to boost nitric oxide production, which, as mentioned, can help promote blood vessel relaxation and constriction to support healthy blood flow. It has furthermore been found to help regulate platelet activity, blood lipid levels, and blood pressure.ii
Could pine bark be good for travel?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when blood clots develop in the deeper veins of the body, most often in the legs. These clots can obstruct normal blood flow, leading to symptoms like swelling, pain, tenderness, redness, and cramping, and, if left untreated, can contribute to life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism. The risk of developing DVT increases during periods of prolonged inactivity, such as long-haul travel or extended sitting. These risk factors are further increased with the use of the oral contraceptive pill, pregnancy, smoking, and obesity.iii
The reason air travel can increase the risk of DVT is due to a combination of factors. The compression of veins as a result of prolonged sitting, reduced movement, reduced fluid intake, alcohol intake, and increased water loss due to a drier atmosphere can all contribute to the development. Many people who have flown long-haul may be familiar with the effects of swelling of the legs and ankles, due to fluid accumulation around these areas, which can be uncomfortable. I
It is thought that in long-duration flights, especially those over 12 hours, around 4-10% of passengers develop DVT, often due to a combination of the predisposing factors mentioned above. To prevent DVT, the common advice is to take regular exercise breaks such as stretching and walking around the plane, drinking enough water and wearing loose clothing. Compression stockings are also often recommended and have been found to help reduce the risk of DVT development for many. But what if there were a supplement that could further help reduce the risk of DVT and additionally offer antioxidant support to help reduce oxidative stress that is further generated through air travel?
Does Pycnogenol work at preventing DVT: a look at the research?
Research suggests that Pycnogenol has been demonstrated to reduce the symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as swelling, itching, and cramps, as well as reducing oedema and regulating platelet aggregation when movement is limited to overall reduce thrombotic events [i]
One study investigated the effectiveness of compression stockings and Pycnogenol supplementation in preventing post-thrombotic syndrome following a major episode of proximal DVT. The participants were divided into groups receiving different interventions: compression stockings alone, Pycnogenol supplementation alone, and a combination of both.
The study found that two cases of recurrent DVT occurred in the group using compression stockings alone, while no such cases were reported in the groups receiving Pycnogenol, either on its own or in combination with compression therapy.
Notable benefits included reduced ankle circumference, decreased limb volume, and enhanced microcirculation. This study suggests that Pycnogenol has long-term protective efficacy following a thrombotic event when paired with compression stockings and would be a valuable prevention strategy, particularly if at a higher risk of DVT.[ii]
In earlier studies, participants were given two capsules containing 100mg of Pycnogenol two and three hours prior to a long-haul flight, followed by another two capsules six hours later and a final one capsule the next day. They found that the supplement group did not experience any thrombotic events, while five participants in the control group did. They found evidence of visible inflammation and clot presence as detected from post-flight scans in those with superficial vein thrombosis. In conclusion, the study indicates that Pycnogenol was effective in decreasing both DVT and superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) in moderate to high-risk subjects during long-haul flights.i
The LONEFIT registry study analysed data from over 350 participants who travelled for more than 8 hours at least twice a week. Participants were categorized into low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups. In addition to standard measures to mitigate the adverse effects of long-haul travel, the study assigned interventions: some groups received Pycnogenol, others were given compression stockings, and one group served as a control. The high-risk group also received aspirin.
The results showed that the low-risk group experienced no cases of oedema and had reduced ankle swelling when treated with Pycnogenol, compared to the other groups. In contrast, one participant in the control group and two in the compression stocking group reported adverse effects. In the moderate-risk group, participants who received Pycnogenol showed reduced oedema and smaller ankle circumference. In comparison, the control group reported one case of DVT and one case of SVT.
In the high-risk group, notable differences were observed. No thrombotic events occurred in the Pycnogenol group, whereas the control group, which received no intervention, reported one case of DVT and one case of SVT. Additionally, those in the Pycnogenol group experienced fewer symptoms of jet lag. The researchers concluded that Pycnogenol helps reduce oedema and lowers the risk of thrombotic events.[iii]
Pycnogenol may also support cognitive function during long-distance travel
In a study involving participants on 10 to 12-hour flights, those who took 150 mg daily experienced a significant reduction in jet lag symptoms and better preservation of cognitive performance.[iv]
Overall, studies support the use of Pycnogenol for healthy blood flow and circulation, reducing fluid retention and lowering the risk of clot formation. Pycnogenol shows promise as a natural support for vascular health during air travel, helping to alleviate jet lag and reduce the risk of DVT.
References
[i] Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Rohdewald P, et al. Prevention of venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis in long-haul flights with pycnogenol. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost. 2004;10(4):373-377. doi:10.1177/107602960401000410
[ii] Errichi BM, Belcaro G, Hosoi M, et al. Prevention of post thrombotic syndrome with Pycnogenol® in a twelve month study. Panminerva Med. 2011;53(3 Suppl 1):21-27.
[iii] Belcaro G, Cornelli U, Dugall M, Hosoi M, Cotellese R, Feragalli B. Long-haul flights, edema, and thrombotic events: prevention with stockings and Pycnogenol® supplementation (LONFLIT Registry Study). Minerva Cardioangiol. 2018;66(2):152-159. doi:10.23736/S0026-4725.17.04577-7
[iv] Belcaro G, Hu S, Hosoi M, et al. Prevention and control of jet lag symptoms and temporary impairment of cognitive function with Pycnogenol® in healthy individuals and in hypertensives. Minerva Med. 2024;115(2):178-184. doi:10.23736/S0026-4806.23.08974-7
All of our blogs are written by our team of expert Nutritional Therapists. If you have questions regarding the topics that have been raised, or any other health matters, please do contact them using the details below:
nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk
01684 310099
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Last updated on 29th May 2025 by cytoffice
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