Archive for April, 2009

New Study: Pine Bark Significantly Reduces Menstrual Pain

A new study reveals dysmenorrhea, a condition that causes extremely painful menstrual periods affecting millions of women each year, can be reduced naturally by taking Pycnogenol(R) (pic-noj- en-all), pine bark extract from the French maritime pine tree.

Acanthopanax trifoliatus (L.) Merr.



Description:

Rigid shrub, diffuse. Stems ascending, spiny. Leaves alternate, 3-5 – palmifoliate; leaflets with margins toothed and spines on the nerves. Inflorescence in terminal panicle of some umbels; flowers small, greenish-white. Fruit globose, black when ripe. All parts of the plant are particularly fragrant.

Flowering period:

September – November.

Distribution:

Grows wild in mountainous regions, occasionally found on the forest-edge.

Parts used:

The root bark and stem bark are collected in summer and autumn. The bark is wrapped to bring out the aroma then subjected to thorough air-drying.

Chemical composition:

The root bark and stem bark contain triterpenoid saponins and oleanolic acid

Therapeutic uses:

The root bark and stem bark are prescribed in the treatment of rheumatism, lumbago, ostealgia and impotence. The drug is also considered as a central nervous system stimulant and tonic. It improves the memory. The usual dose is 6 to 12g per day in the form of a decoction or tincture.

Source:Medicinal plants in Viet Nam (Institute of Materia Medica – HANOI – WHO/WPRO, 1990, 444 p.)

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