A peer-reviewed study provides evidence that those who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia) may see their symptoms mitigated through daily supplementation with Pycnogenol, a French maritime pine bark extract.
 
Data show that persistent dry mouth affects up to 10% of the population, and up to 20% of advanced age adults, 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,” nutrition specialist Dr. Fred Pescatore said. “It can also be caused by health conditions such as diabetes. Dry mouth can compromise a patient’s quality of life with symptoms like bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Left untreated, dry mouth can lead to halitosis, chronic sore throat, and difficulty speaking and chewing.”
 
Pycnogenol is an antioxidant supported by a catalog of clinical research supporting its anti-inflammatory benefits. 48 participants between the ages of 45 and 55 years old who experienced dry mouth symptoms participated in the study, divided into two groups based on whether participants had diabetes, or were otherwise healthy.
 
All participants supplemented with 150mg of Pycnogenol for two weeks, and their saliva production was evaluated through ultrasound examination of salivary glands and a chewing test.
 
Participants in the non-diabetic test group who supplemented with Pycnogenol reported improved dry mouth symptoms, including 82% improvement of saliva production compared to no improvement in the control group, significantly reduced mouth dryness by 66% compared to 3% in the control group, and reduced prevalence of mouth ulcers and sores related to dry mouth by 69% compared to a 3% improvement in the control group.
 
In the diabetic group, there was a 70% improvement of saliva production compared to no improvement in the control group, 63% reduced mouth dryness compared to 6% in the control group, and a reduction of mouth ulcers and sores related to dry mouth by 58% compared to 12% improvement in the control group.
 
“These clinical findings are an important development for anyone experiencing dry mouth, especially for those cases related to a diabetes or a condition that requires routine medication,” Pescatore said. “Pycnogenol presents an effective natural solution for combatting dry mouth and possibly preventing further health complications. In addition to these improvements, the study also showed supplementation with Pycnogenol can enhance blood microcirculation to the gums significantly and reduce levels of oxidative stress measured in saliva samples.”