What Is Pygeum?

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum) is an extract, usually in liquid form, from the bark of the African plum tree. Pygeum is used as a folk remedy to resolve discomfort of benign prostatic hypertrophy, or BPH, by the Zulu tribe of Africa. Native people in Madagascar and Africa use the pygeum bark as an aphrodisiac, to cure insanity, urinary-tract troubles, fever and stomach aches. Pygeum is milk-like and has an almond-like flavor. Pygeum also is used for general drinking and cooking.

Demand

• In France, pygeum extract is the most popular treatment for BPH. Pygeum is also commonly used in the United States and Italy. Demand for the African plum tree, from which pygeum is derived, has increased so rapidly that in 1998 the tree became a threatened species.

Benefits

• Pygeum contains several compounds, including anti-inflammatories and enzymes that decrease testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormones. Studies (see References) report that the positive effects of pygeum on the human body include normalization of glandular activity, increase in prostatic secretions and an increase in estrogen and antiestrogen. Pygeum has not been shown to reduce the size of the prostate gland or reverse the process of BPH. It is also not clear how pygeum compares to prescription medicines currently on the market.

Side Effects

• Side effects from pygeum are rare. In some clinical trials about 3 percent of patients reported gastrointestinal upset. Studies on animals have shown neither long- nor short-term negative effects, even after 11 months of use.

Treatments

• For nearly 50 years, most countries in Europe have used a standardized herbal extract at 13 percent of total sterols and given to patients in two doses of 50mg to 100mg per day. Patients are closely observed for at least six to nine months of treatment. In some mixtures, vitamins, amino acids, minerals and other herbs may be included. Pygeum extract is marketed as Tadenan in France and Pygenil in Italy.

Clinical Trials

• Since the 1970s, pygeum has been studied in Europe and the United States. Clinical trials included double-blind studies with daily doses of 100mg to 200mg given to some test subjects, while other test subjects were given placebos. Symptoms of BPH, such as difficulty in passing urine, frequency of needing to urinate at night and residual urine volume, were reduced. The only side effects reported were nausea and abdominal pain for short periods of time.

Warning

• Doctors recommend that pygeum be used only under medical supervision, because of the nature of BPH and possible adverse effects from improperly using pygeum. Before taking any medicine, including homeopathic treatments, it is advised to check with your doctor or health care professional. Be sure to mention other medications you are presently taking, any allergies you may have and what your symptoms are.