Condition
Treatment Support
anti-inflammatory
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Pygeum
(Pygeum africanum)
Botanical Information
A small to medium-sized tree from Africa from the Rose family.
Working with Pygeum
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Capsule, tablet
Christopher Hobbs:
“Pygeum is an African herb in the rose family that is has been studied for its ability to shrink the prostate when it is inflamed and swollen. It can be found in a number of modern formulations along with saw palmetto and nettle root for prevention of prostate problems and for helping to restore balance.
Pygeum has a taste of BITTER, AROMATIC and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
- Pygeum, derived from the bark of the African cherry tree (Prunus africana), has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine.
- It was historically used for treating urinary issues, particularly in men, as well as for alleviating inflammation, improving sexual health, and treating fevers.
Modern Clinical Uses (Herbalists & Naturopaths)
- Primarily used by herbalists and naturopaths today for promoting prostate health.
- Commonly recommended for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream, and nocturia.
- Often used in combination with other herbs, such as saw palmetto, to support urinary tract health and male reproductive function.
Chemistry & Pharmacology
- Pygeum contains phytochemicals, including triterpenoids, fatty acids, and sterols, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties, and compounds like beta-sitosterol may help reduce prostate swelling and improve urinary function.
- Pygeum is thought to block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a role in BPH.
Clinical Trials
- Several clinical trials support the efficacy of pygeum in treating BPH symptoms, showing improvements in urinary function and reduction in prostate size.
- Meta-analyses have found pygeum extract to be effective in reducing symptoms of BPH, though results can vary between individuals.
- Evidence suggests it can help reduce nocturia, improve urinary flow, and provide relief from other BPH symptoms.
- The results of clinical trials suggest that pygeum may offer a complementary treatment for BPH alongside other therapies.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
The tree is rare and endangered in some parts of Africa; substitute saw palmetto or nettle root.
Generally considered safe when used appropriately.
Some mild side effects may occur, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or nausea.
Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Interactions with blood-thinning medications and other prostate treatments should be considered.
Extracts are often standardized to contain 13–15% beta-sitosterol, which is thought to be the active component.
Herbalists may recommend different formulations based on individual needs.
Conditions treated with Pygeum
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
