Pygeum is an evergreen tree found in the higher elevations of central and southern Africa, hence the species name africana. It is prized for its hard wood that is used to make wagons. Pygeum was formerly known as Pygeum africanum. Historically, the powdered bark was used as a tea for relief of bladder & urinary disorders. European scientists began laboratory investigations into the active constituents in the bark. This led to the development of the modern lipophilic (fat soluble) extracts used today. Successfully researched in Europe, studies show Pygeum to be exceptional in helping to maintain a healthy prostate. Recently, numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the usefulness of Pygeum for prostatic hyperplasia, particularly benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Pygeum is known to contain three groups of active components: Phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol; pentacyclic triterpenoids, such as ursolic and oleanic acids; and ferulic esters of fatty alcohols, particularly the ferulic esters of docosanol and tetracosanol.

The phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, are found in numerous plants and are anti-inflammatory, inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins. Beta-sitosterol has been shown to be useful in cases of BPH by helping to reduce the normally elevated levels of prostaglandins in these patients. The elimination of the excess blood and vasal congestion helps reduce the size of prostate adenomas. The pentacyclic triterpenoids also help inhibit inflammation by blocking enzymatic activity. They are effective anti-edema agents and also help increase the integrity of small veins and capillaries. The third active group, the ferulic esters of long-chain fatty acids, act by inhibiting the absorption and metabolism of cholesterol. BPH and other cases of enlarged prostates are characterized by containing abnormally high levels of cholesterol. Pygeum efficacy was determined by measuring the effects of the herb on numerous parameters, including dysuria, nycturia, frequent urination, abdominal heaviness, residual urine, voiding volume, prostate volume, and peak flow. Consumption of Pygeum resulted in significant amelioration of symptoms, reduction in prostate size, and clearance of bladder neck urethral obstruction.

Other Names: African plum tree, PAE, Pygeum

Who is this for?

African plum is used mainly to relieve the symptoms of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) -- a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. The urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, passes through the prostate gland. For most men, BPH is a normal part of aging. Both BPH and prostate cancer can cause the prostate to grow larger. An enlarged prostate may cause men to have trouble starting or maintaining urination, need to urinate more often, have urine leaks, or need to urinate during the night.

Numerous studies have been done to test the effectiveness of African plum for prostate enlargement. In general, results have been positive. African plum contains a number of different chemicals, including triterpenes that have mild anti-inflammatory effects, and fatty acid derivatives such as n-docosanol that keep cholesterol from building up in the prostate.

In animal studies, African plum has increased the amount and viability of semen, possibly alleviating some causes of male infertility. Some unconfirmed reports seem to indicate that it may also be moderately effective in stimulating hair growth. It has also been used to treat urinary tract conditions and fever, but no evidence supports these uses.