Pycnogenol eases severe PMS pain

Japanese researchers used either Pycnogenol supplements or placebos to treat 116 women with premenstrual pain. The subjects were untreated during the first two of five menstrual cycles, received the supplements or placebos during the third and fourth cycles, and were tracked for one cycle after stopping all supplements. Women with low levels of menstrual pain did not benefit from Pycnogenol®. However, women with more severe pain had significant benefits. During the third and fourth menstrual cycles, the number of painful days decreased from 2.1 to 1.3 days. In addition, the women used significantly less analgesic medication. The benefits continued through the fifth menstrual cycle. Placebos did not confer any significant benefits.

Suzuki N. Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 2008;53: 338-346.