@Flexy, the swanson capsule 400 mg bark and 100 mg extract with 6.5% phytosterols means that there is 6.5 mg active chemical. I have also taken solaray with 6.5 mg active chemical. Both have worked for me.
Bark by itself may have very little of the active chemical. I have never taken the bark only products.
Also people’s individual responses to chemicals can vary based on a lot of factors. Read about other people’s experiences here. Some people notice no difference. Some take weeks or months.
To eliminate variables I would suggest trying a product that has the 6.5 mg active chemical per pill. Start with 1 pill daily.
Also ensure that you are getting proper sleep, exercise, nutrition, hydration, etc.
See a doctor if you have other health issues. I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice.
Good luck.
ReStart - July 2022: BPEL:6.75 EG:5.75