A peer-reviewed study shows promising findings for those who suffer from dry mouth. Published research found that supplementation with Pycnogenol, a celebrated French maritime pine bark extract distributed in North America by New Jersey-based Horphag Research (USA) Inc, boosts saliva production significantly and alleviates dry mouth symptoms. Data shows persistent dry mouth affects up to 10 percent of the population[1] and up to 20 percent of advanced age adults,[2] specifically.

“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,” said nutritional health expert, Dr. Fred Pescatore. “Dry mouth can compromise a patient’s quality of life with symptoms like bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease.[3] Left untreated, dry mouth can lead to halitosis, chronic sore throat, and difficulty speaking and chewing.”[4]

Pycnogenol is a natural super-antioxidant supported by an extensive catalog of clinical research showing its anti-inflammatory benefits. The controlled study was conducted on 48 subjects between the ages of 45 and 55 years old who experienced dry mouth symptoms. Participants were divided into two groups to determine the benefits of Pycnogenol for individuals experiencing dry mouth as a result of diabetes, and for those who were otherwise healthy.

Participants supplemented with 150 mg of Pycnogenol daily for two weeks. Researchers analyzed participant improvement using ultrasound examinations of salivary glands and a chewing test to measure the level of saliva production. Following the two-week study period, participants in the non-diabetic test group who supplemented with Pycnogenol reported improved dry mouth symptoms, such as:

• 82 percent improvement of saliva production in the Pycnogenol group (compared to no improvement in the control group)

• Significantly reduced mouth dryness by 66 percent in the Pycnogenol group (compared to 3 percent improvement in the control group)

• Reduced the prevalence of mouth ulcers and sores related to dry mouth by 69 percent in the Pycnogenol group (compared to 3 percent improvement in the control group)

For more information, visit https://www.pycnogenol.com/.

References:

[1] MedicineNet: Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

[2] The Oral Cancer Foundation: Xerostomia – Helping Patients with Dry Mouth

[3] Mayo Clinic: Dry Mouth

[4] American Dental Association: Oral Health Topics Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)