Pine bark extracts is made from the bark of the maritime pine tree called Landes. It contains naturally occurring chemicals called proanthocyanidins. Pine bark extract is used for its antioxidant properties.

It is very easy to use hot water and pressure to extract OPC from pine bark. pycnogenol is just one of the brand names of pine bark extract ingredients. Other better product is FrenchGlory brand.

http://www.opc-1-2-3.com/opc-pinebark-extract.html

I wouldn't recommend taking Pine Bark Extract if you are allergic to it. I have had an allergy to Pine Bark for 20 years and unknowingly took a supplement that included Pine Bark. I took two capsules of the supplement and the next day immediately broke out in hives. The hives lasted for about four weeks.

It has something to do with the Immune System - causing it to work overtime and create the hives for no reason.

Pine bark extract is available in health food stores as powder and capsules. For prevention and general health, a daily dosage of 50 mg (1-2 capsules) is recommended.

if you have a dog and a cat that get on, kill the cat, viola!!!