Health - Pine bark extract reduces jet lag

LONDON: Pycnogenol, a bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduces jet lag in passengers by nearly 50%, a study suggests.


A recent two-part study, comprising a brain CT scan and a scoring system, showed Pycnogenol lowered symptoms of jet lag like fatigue, headaches, insomnia and brain oedema (swelling) in both healthy individuals and hypertensive patients.

Jet lag, also called desynchronosis, is a temporary disorder that causes a variety of temporary mental and physical impairments as a result of air travel across time zones.

"This study could not have come at a better time for the upcoming holiday travel season," said Gianni Belcaro, a co-author of the study of G D'Annunzio University in Pescara, Italy.

Belcaro attributed Pycnogenol's combined activities for better circulation and antioxidant potency to such remarkable results, said an Annunzio University release.

"Previous Pycnogenol flight studies have shown a reduction in jet lag; however this was the first study to solely focus on the condition."

The study comprised 133 passengers who took flights that were seven to nine hours in length. Fifty mg of oral Pycnogenol was administered three times daily, for seven days, starting two days prior to the flight.

"I'm encouraged by the results of the study as Pycnogenol was effective in preventing jet lag related effects without any side effects," said Belcaro.

While more research needs to be conducted on this topic, Pycnogenol is emerging as natural, yet safe option for long distance travellers.

These findings were published in Minerva Cardioangiologica.