An All-Natural Remedy for Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetes is a disease that can affect almost every organ in the body including the kidneys, heart, nerves, and even the eyes. Diabetic eye disease or retinopathy affects almost half of all people with diabetes to some degree and when it progresses it can lead to blindness. Up until now, there’s been little that a diabetic could do to reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy except keep blood sugars and blood pressure under good control. Now, a new study shows that pycnogenol – an extract from the French maritime pine bark tree could lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy naturally.

A Study

In a study published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, researchers gave twenty-four volunteers with early signs of diabetic retinopathy 150 milligrams of pycnogenol per day for two months. A second group was given a placebo. At the end of the study, three-quarters of the group given the pycnogenol experienced improvements in their vision which was measured by increases in visual acuity using standard testing. Pycnogenol was well tolerated without serious side effects.

What is Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol comes from the maritime pine which grows along the Mediterranean. It’s a good source of flavonoids and other compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Because of its antoxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s being studied as a treatment for a variety of diseases ranging from asthma to erectile dysfunction. Some studies show that it improves the symptoms of asthma and varicose veins.

Why Would Pycnogenol Work for Diabetic Retinopathy?

Researchers believe that pycnogenol causes increased production of nitric oxide which dilates blood vessels – causing increased blood flow to the retina. They also believe that it blocks the action of proteins that increase blood vessel permeability – including blood vessels in the back of the eye. This reduces swelling that can contribute to diabetic retinopathy.

Is Pycnogenol for Diabetic Retinopathy Safe?

Pycnogenol is well tolerated by most people who take it, although, theoretically, it could increase the risk of bleeding in people on blood thinners and could lower blood sugar in diabetics. It can also interact with other prescription and non-prescription medications.

Should You Take Pycnogenol for Diabetic Retinopathy?

This study looking at pycnogenol for diabetic retinopathy certainly looks encouraging, but larger studies are still needed for confirmation. Pycnogenol seems to be safe and well tolerated, but it’s important to take it under a doctor’s care if you’re diabetic since it can alter blood sugar levels. Since the active ingredients are flavanoids and other antioxidant compounds if you don’t want to take pycnogenol, you may get the same effects from eating a diet rich in antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. This is a good idea for anyone who has diabetes.