Inhibit the activation of the pro-inflammatory “master switch” NF-kB by 15.8% [Grimm et al., 2006]. The activated NF-kB protein commands the mobilization of essentially all proinflammatory molecules which play a destructive role in arthritis. As a consequence of NF-kB inhibition immune cells of Pycnogenol consumers generate less MMP enzymes which are responsible for degenerating cartilage collagen in osteoarthritis [Grimm et al., 2006].

Pycnogenol was demonstrated in a study with 55 osteoarthritis patients to significantly lower the inflammatory marker C-reative protein (CRP) by 72%. Moreover, this study found a significant reduction of reactive oxygen species in arthritis patients by 30% [Belcaro et al., 2008].

Pain gradually decreased from one month to another reaching a significant change to placebo after two months. After three months a significant reduction of 43%, 35% and 52% in self-reported pain, stiffness and physical function, respectively, were reported in the Pycnogenol group whereas the placebo group.