Pycnogenol relieves symptoms of acute hemorrhoids.
A study published in a recent issue of Phytotherapy Research revealed Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract, from Natural Health Sciences, has important anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties that may be beneficial in patients with hemorrhoids, both for acute and chronic treatment, and in preventing new attacks. The randomized, controlled study conducted by G D'Annunzio University in Italy investigated 84 patients suffering from an acute episode of external hemorrhoids, lasting 24 to 48 hours prior to inclusion in the study. The most frequently observed signs and symptoms, including hemorrhoidal bleedings, severe perineal pain and intravascular thrombus, were evaluated during the study period of two weeks. Patients were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: Treatment of Group 1 consisted of initial 300 mg of Pycnogenol tablets daily for four days, followed by 150 mg per day for the following three days; Group 2 received the same treatment as Group 1, plus 0.5% Pycnogenol topical cream; and Group 3 was a placebo treatment group. Symptoms of hemorrhoidal attacks were assessed and duration of peak pain was observed and recorded, from the initial signs and symptoms to the disappearance of severe, incapacitating pain.The complication of hemorrhoidal bleeding was completely absent in the Pycnogenol groups after seven days and thereafter. It was still observed in the placebo group during two weeks of follow-up. Results for quality of life parameters confirmed a significant improvement in social functions by using Pycnogenol orally, with the important added benefit of a topical application of Pycnogenol. Results also confirmed the duration of peak pain was significantly lower in the combined oral plus topical Pycnogenol group. Finally, there was a decrease in the number of lost working days, as well as a decrease in the recurrence of complications and overall treatment costs the month following in both Pycnogenol groups. For further information: www.pycnogenol.com
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| Title Annotation: | Research Highlights |
|---|---|
| Publication: | Nutraceuticals World |
| Date: | Mar 1, 2010 |
| Words: | 308 |
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