Pycnogenol for Retinal Blood Flow

A 2025 study found that Pycnogenol significantly improved retinal edema and visual acuity in people with sudden vision loss after 4 weeks when added to standard care. The 150mg daily dose of Pycnogenol was more effective than the 100mg dose. Retinal microcirculation, as measured by blood flow velocities, was significantly improved in the Pycnogenol groups. Side effects can include stomach discomfort, headache, nausea, and dizziness.

Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Scipione C, Scipione V, Cox D, Cotellese R, Dugall M, Hosoi M, Corsi M, Feragalli B, Gizzi C, Torino Rodrigues P. Pycnogenol® improves retinal microcirculation and symptoms of optic nerve ischemic damage after sudden, reversible unilateral loss of vision: a pilot evaluation. J Neurosurg Sci. 2025 Dec;69(6):463-468. doi: 10.23736/S0390-5616.24.06374-4. Epub 2025 May 27. PMID: 40420794.