French maritime pine bark and its extracts (especially the patented compound pycnogenol) are increasingly being studied by those interested in natural remedies and by biochemists alike for its potential benefits to human health. Other plants and plant products have similar chemical compounds, but maritime pine bark in particular has been studied for potential drugs and natural cures.

Pycnogenol specifically has received extensive attention as a health remedy. It is a compound of biochemical ingredients that include an extensive amount of proanthocyanidins--color chemicals (such as tannins) in plants that seem to offer an extensive number of health benefits.

Natural Cures: French maritime pine bark is recommended to those who have tree pollen allergies, suffer circulation issues (including erectile dysfunction), have high blood pressure, experience eye issues, have varicose veins, and more. The pycnogenol extract is said sometimes to work better than similar complete plant products.