People’s Pharmacy: Pine extract appears to help hair loss
Q. I think I’ve read in your column that Pycnogenol could help hair loss. Is there any truth to that?
A. Pycnogenol® is an extract derived from French maritime pine bark. A few studies have found it helpful in easing menopausal symptoms, especially hot flashes and night sweats (Journal of Reproductive Medicine, Jan-Feb. 2013).
Some readers have written to us that their hair and nails seem healthier when they take Pycnogenol. Now scientists have confirmed improved hair density in menopausal women taking this compound (Health Science Reports, Jan. 6, 2023). This placebo-controlled study was relatively small and lasted six months, so we would like to see more research on this. The investigators conclude cautiously, “Oral intake of Pycnogenol® might have the potential to reduce hair loss in postmenopausal women.”
Q. About two days ago, I noticed the fingers on my right hand were splitting at the tips. I honestly thought something was wrong with me.
At work today, my index finger was terribly dry and peeling to the point where it looked red. It’s really annoying.
I’m constantly washing my hands at work from greasy food and I also have to clean frosty machines. That must be why my fingertips are cracking.
When I looked for cures, I read about A+D ointment. I had some in my make-up bag and I put it on instantly. The split disappeared almost immediately. More people should know about this.
A. The active ingredients in Vitamin A+D Ointment are lanolin (15.5%) and petrolatum (53.4%). So-called inactive ingredients include cod liver oil, fragrance, light mineral oil, microcrystalline wax and paraffin. Because this product is available generically, some manufacturers may modify the ingredient list. The vitamins A and D come from cod liver oil.
Some people react to lanolin with contact dermatitis. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling or blistering. This can be quite challenging.
Q. I went away for a weekend with about a dozen other women. Shortly after arriving, I started to feel as though I was coming down with something and hated the idea that others might get sick too.
Our hostess offered me some oil of oregano which I drank in a bit of water. It was rather like being hit by a bus, but within a half an hour I felt much better. I drank the next dose in a small amount of heavy cream, and my reaction was less extreme. My lips did not burn as much. I was fine the rest of the weekend.
Usually I’m a big fan of ginger and garlic in chicken broth along with the vegetables or herbs on hand. That generally nips colds in the bud.
A. We appreciate your story about oil of oregano, and we share your enthusiasm for chicken soup with plenty of garlic and maybe some thyme or ginger to ease cold symptoms. Readers who would like to learn more about oregano or chicken soup might want to consult one of our books. Spice Up Your Health: How Everyday Kitchen Herbs & Spices Can Lengthen & Strengthen Your Life has a section on oregano research, among other herbs. Recipes & Remedies From The People’s Pharmacy offers three recipes for chicken soup as well as for thyme and ginger broth and T’s Immuno-T, a recipe from Dr. Tieraona Low Dog. Both books may be found in the books section of the store at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.
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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is Top Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them (Crown)
This story was originally published December 24, 2025 at 6:00 AM with the headline "People’s Pharmacy: Pine extract appears to help hair loss."