A press release from Horphag Research, manufacturers of Pycnogenol, quotes nutritional health expert Dr. Fred Pescatore, who explains: “Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a very common condition and a frequent side effect from use of over-the-counter and prescription medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and medications for high blood pressure. It can also be caused by health conditions such as diabetes. Dry mouth can compromise a patient’s quality of life with symptoms like bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Left untreated, dry mouth can lead to halitosis, chronic sore throat, and difficulty speaking and chewing.”
The pilot study looked to evaluate the effect of the French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol on dry mouth in subjects without cancer. It involved 24 diabetic patients and 24 non-diabetics. 12 participants from each group served as a control, using standard management techniques; the other 12 participants from each group followed up their standard management with Pycnogenol supplementation, taking 150mg/day for two weeks.
Within two weeks, salivary flow and oxidative stress improved in both diabetics and non-diabetics taking Pycnogenol (p<0.05), while the control groups saw minimal improvement. The subjective score and the number of mucosal breaks and ulcerations were significantly decreased with Pycnogenol, as well (p<0.05), and the lysozyme level in parotid saliva samples was significantly increased in the Pycnogenol group (p<0.05).
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The study concludes: “Based on these preliminary results, Pycnogenol could be a new, valid option for the treatment of xerostomia.”Dr. Pescatore commented in the press release: “These clinical findings are an important development for anyone experiencing dry mouth, especially for those cases related to diabetes or a condition that requires routine medication. Pycnogenol presents an effective natural solution for combatting dry mouth and possibly preventing further health complications.”
