Research over the past three decades has demonstrated that molecules called free radicals may hasten the aging process.  To combat these destructive molecules, scientists have discovered a number of nutrients and herbs which appear to act as anti-aging agents, through their antioxidant effects.  Antioxidants scavenge free radicals, attracting them and neutralizing their charge before they can do damage to cellular structures.  By protecting cells from the onslaught of free radicals, an optimal supply of antioxidants can help the body avoid premature aging.^(1,2)

The most potent antioxidants are the proanthocyanidins derived from both grape seeds (Vitis vinifera) and French maritime pine bark (Pinus maritime).  Research on proanthocyanidins has indicated that they are 50 times more effective than vitamin E and 20 times more effective than vitamin C in scavenging free radicals.⁽³⁾ Proanthocyanidins work with vitamin C to help regenerate collagen and shield it from free-radical attacks. Together these nutrients strengthen and restore permeability of capillaries to allow more oxygen, nutrients, enzymes and hormones to pass through cell membranes to renew and feed all 60 trillion of the body's cells.(4) This "protect and repair" function promotes smoothness and elasticity of skin, improved circulation in the eyes and extremities and increased memory capacity (since proanthocyanidins cross the blood-brain barrier).

Proanthocyanidins have been shown to have a positive effect in heart disease, varicose veins and edema, diabetic retinopathy and other degenerative processes.⁽⁴⁾ These powerful antioxidants have been called "the atherosclerosis antidote".

Although the first discovery of proanthocy-anidins was in French maritime pine bark, most studies have been conducted on grape seed extract.  Grape seeds provide a richer source of proanthocyanadins, yielding 10% more activity per gram than pine bark. Grape seeds, a by-product of the wine industry, also provide a cleaner and more economical source of proanthocyanidins.

Long associated with longevity, it now appears that a concentrated 24:1 standardized extract of Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) extract has demonstrated remarkable effects on circulatory and nervous system functions, including enhanced energy, increased cellular glucose intake, inhibition of platelet aggregation (reducing ‘stickiness’ within arteries), increased blood flow to the brain, improved transmission of nerve signals and free radical scavenging activity.^(1,4)

Ginkgo biloba extract (120 mg. per day) has displayed statistically significant regression of major vascular insufficiency symptoms: short-term memory loss, tinnitis (ringing in the ears), lack of vigilance, vertigo, headache and depression.  Improved cerebral blood flow provides increased oxygen and glucose to the brain to relieve many of the presumed "side effects" of aging.  The Chinese have used ginkgo biloba for over 5,000 years for respiratory disorders.^(1,4)

Green tea (Camellia sinensis), another anti-aging herb used for centuries by the Chinese and Japanese, has demonstrated potent antioxidant and anticancer properties, being very high in polyphenols.  Whereas black tea (the fermented form of green tea) may increase the risk of certain cancers, green tea consumption may inhibit the formation of nitrosamines during a meal; increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes; and inhibit mutagenesis and carcinogenesis by chemopreventive action in humans.  Green tea extract also helps block the formation of tumors.  Green tea consumption is believed to be a major reason for the lower cancer rate in Japan and China.⁽⁴⁾

Silymarin, a potent antioxidant and flavonoid complex of the herb milk thistle (Silybum marianum), prevents free radicals damage, particularly within the liver.  Its administration may reduce mortality from cirrhosis, aid detoxification of harmful environmental chemicals and exert significant protection for the liver against hepatitis and chemical or alcohol- induced fatty liver.  It may also improve immune function in immunocompromised patients.  In addition, other possible applications for milk thistle may include atherosclerosis, gallbladder disease and psoriasis.  The antioxidant activity of a 65% standardized extract of milk thistle greatly surpasses that of vitamin E.⁽⁴⁾

Quercetin, another flavonoid, appears to reduce allergic processes, inhibit the infectiousness and/or replication of both RNA and DNA viruses and inhibit mast cell degranulation which causes tissue destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.  It inhibits the release of histamine (and other inflammatory mediators) by stabilizing mast cells and basophils; inhibits several enzymes to prevent inflammation; and decreases leukotriene formation, lipid peroxidation and collagen breakdown.  Most studies on quercetin also show it to suppress tumor formation. ⁽⁵⁾

WARNING:   This publication and the product contained herein have not been approved or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This publication, and the product contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The product relates to nutritional support only.

Each all-vegetable capsule contains'.
Pycnogenol® 10 mg.
Grape Seed Extract (Vitis vinifera) (5:1 Concentrate) 50 mg.
Ginkgo Biloba (24:1 Extract) 20 mg.
Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis) (65% Standardized Extract) 75 mg.
Quercetin 100 mg.
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) (seed)(80% Standardized Extract) 10 mg.
Other ingredients: rice flour, magnesium stearate. Contains no animal products.

®Pycnogenol is the registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd. Pycnogenol is an extract of the bark of French Coastal Pine (Pinus maritime). U.S. Patent #4,698,360.