The many menstrual cycle benefits of pine bark extract

Pine bark extract has been used as an herbal remedy for many years. It provides an active substance which improves blood flow to the body tissues and also has an potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant affect in the body. 

How does pine bark extract help menstrual symptoms?

The increase in blood flow and the that occurs after taking pine bark extract has multiple benefits for menstruating women. 

Decreases the need for pain killers

Pine bark extract has anti-inflammatory properties and studies have shown it to decrease the need for pain killers at the time of menstruation. Pain is triggered by inflammation and hormone changes during menstruation and reducing any excess inflammation can significantly improve pain and decrease the need for pain killers. 

Dysmenorrhoea

Pine bark extract also works for women with dysmenorrhoea, a condition that causes extremely painful periods. It works in the same way by decreasing inflammation and improving blood flow to the reproductive organs so they can function better. 

Endometriosis associated pain

There has been some research which uncovered a positive result with using pine bark extract alongside the oral contraceptive pill with endometriosis associated pain. If you are already taking oral contraceptive and you have endometriosis, it is worth discussing this combination with your GP. 

Improves blood flow to the reproductive organs

Pine bark extract improves blood flow in the body by enhancing Nitric Oxide production. Nitric Oxide is a natural chemical in the blood that stimulates the dilation and widening of the blood vessels, allowing more blood to pass through, and particularly improving blood flow in the tiny capillaries that channel blood to every cell. The increase in blood flow improves nutrient supply and oxygenation of the tissues in the reproductive organs. These nutrients support the proper function and health. 

Helps the body to remove excess hormones

The improvement of blood flow seen by pine bark extract increases the nutrient supply to each cell and increases the rate that toxins and old hormones are removed from the cells. The old and used hormones then enter the blood where they are carried to the liver for detoxification. Increased blood flow also supports liver detoxification allowing the liver to remove the old, unused toxins quickly before they can be reabsorbed and cause havoc with the menstrual cycle. 

Is pine bark extract safe to take with medications?

If you are taking any prescription medications, it is best to speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking pine bark extract. As pine bark increases the rate of blood flow and supports detoxification, it is possible that some prescription medications may be detoxified from the body too quickly. Medications of particular concern are immunosuppressive medications, chemotherapy and blood thinning medication. There are some studies that indicate pine bark extract can be used alongside the oral contraceptive pill for a more effective way to deal with endometriosis associated pain.

Yoppie’s Super Soother PMS supplement which helps combat period pain, tender breasts and headaches contains Pine Bark to support good health by protecting cells & tissues through its antioxidant property.

Got a question about Pine Bark or other ingredients? We’d love to help you find the answers you need. Reach out any time in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch with us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic period care, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox.