What Are the Dangers of Pygeum?

The bark of the Pygeum, a tree from Southern Africa, has been used as a folk remedy for generations. Today it is used as an alternative cure for men with enlarged prostates.

Function

• According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), pygeum moderately relieves urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

Warning

• In most clinical studies, pygeum has been well-tolerated. Common side effects include diarrhea and constipation. Most often, the discomfort isn't enough to cease taking pygeum.

Interactions

• Though there is no strong evidence to corroborate the claim, the NIH says that pygeum can interfere with estrogen and other hormones.

Duration

• According to the NIH, there have been no studies relating to the safety of taking pygeum for more than 12 months.

Pregnant

• Pygeum should not be taken by pregnant women, since there is no evidence of its effects on hormones needed during gestation.