Corkwood Tree Supplements: Benefits, Uses, and Safety

Corkwood tree supplements are gaining attention for natural inflammation relief and digestive support. If you've seen them in health stores, you probably wonder what they actually do and whether they're worth trying. This page gives practical, no-nonsense info so you can decide smartly.

Corkwood comes from the bark and leaves of the Pterocarpus family (often sold as corkwood or bloodwood). Manufacturers extract polyphenols and tannins that people use for joint pain, minor inflammation, and gut health. Traditional medicine in parts of Africa and Asia has used corkwood bark for decades to ease discomfort and promote wound healing.

Modern research is limited but promising. Lab tests show corkwood extracts reduce inflammatory markers in cells, and small animal studies reported less swelling and faster wound recovery after topical or oral use. A small human pilot study found improvements in joint stiffness after 8 weeks of a standardized extract, though larger trials are needed. Treat these results as early signs, not proof.

How people use corkwood supplements

Common forms include capsules, powders, liquid extracts, and topical creams. People take capsules (300–600 mg typical range per day reported by suppliers), add powder to smoothies, or apply creams to sore areas. Some use a short tea made from dried bark, but hot water can reduce active compounds so extracts are generally more consistent.

Best uses reported by users: mild joint discomfort, seasonal inflammation, and skin care for small cuts or irritations. Athletes sometimes use corkwood for post-workout soreness. If you expect rapid relief from severe pain, corkwood won't replace prescribed meds or physical therapy.

How to pick a quality corkwood supplement: Choose products that list botanical name (Pterocarpus species), show extract ratio (for example 10:1), and state the percentage of active polyphenols or tannins. Third-party testing or an independent lab report is a big plus. Avoid blends that bury corkwood low in the ingredient list or hide concentrations behind "proprietary blends."

Safety and dosing tips

Start low and monitor. Many people begin with a half-dose for a week, then increase if tolerated. Potential interactions include blood thinners and drugs that affect liver enzymes. Don't use corkwood if you're pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice. Stop use and see a doctor if you get an allergic reaction, unusual bruising, or persistent stomach upset.

Store corkwood supplements in a cool, dry place and keep them away from sunlight. Pairing with omega-3s or curcumin may boost anti-inflammatory effects, but don't mix with strong prescription anti-inflammatories without medical advice. Give any new supplement at least four to eight weeks to assess effects. Expect modest improvements; if nothing changes, stop and reassess with your clinician. Costs vary widely by brand.