Pycnogenol®, a high quality, patented pine bark extract, was recently evaluated for its potential use in alleviating some of the symptoms of mild-to-moderate tinnitus. Tinnitus is often referred to as a ringing, swishing, or noise that seems to originate in one or both ears or the head. The causes of tinnitus can vary, and its effects can be devastating in work or social situations. Often these phantom sounds are a symptom of some larger medical issue such as age-related hearing loss or lack of blood flow due to high blood pressure or cholesterol problems. In a recent study in Panminerva Medica (June, 2010), researchers evaluated the effects of Pycnogenol supplementation on cochlear blood flow and tinnitus. Pycnogenol was found to improve blood flow while reducing pressure within the ear itself. Subjects, who rated hearing quality by use of a Subjective Tinnitus Scale (STS), reported reductions in tinnitus related symptoms on average approximately 52%. This study further supports Pycnogenol’s abilities to improve vascular function and blood flow.
To read more on this study: http://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/panminerva-medica/article.php?cod=R41Y2010N05A0063
Great for allergies too!!