African Pygeum bark extract
Also known as: African Pygeum, African Cherry, Pygeum africanum, Prunus africana
Overview
African Pygeum bark extract is derived from the bark of the *Prunus africana* tree, which is native to sub-Saharan Africa. This herbal supplement is primarily utilized for its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as poor urine flow and nocturia. The extract contains several bioactive compounds, including phytosterols and pentacyclic triterpenoids, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research suggests that African Pygeum may help reduce prostate size and improve overall urinary symptoms. The evidence supporting its use is considered moderate, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses available, though study methodologies and sample sizes can vary. It is commonly available in capsule or tablet form and is generally considered safe for short-term use.
Benefits
African Pygeum bark extract primarily benefits men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, have shown that pygeum can significantly improve urinary flow rates and reduce nocturia (nighttime urination) compared to placebo. For instance, research indicates improvements in peak urine flow and a reduction in overall BPH symptoms. Beyond its direct impact on urinary function, there is also evidence suggesting that pygeum possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects by reducing inflammation within the prostate gland. While effect sizes vary across studies, pygeum is generally associated with moderate improvements in urinary symptoms, with benefits typically becoming apparent within a few weeks to months of consistent use. The quality of evidence is moderate, with a need for more long-term studies.
How it works
African Pygeum bark extract is believed to exert its effects primarily by reducing inflammation and potentially by shrinking the prostate gland, thereby improving urinary flow in men with BPH. The key active compounds, such as phytosterols and pentacyclic triterpenoids, are thought to be responsible for these actions. It interacts with the urinary system by improving urodynamic parameters, which are measurements related to the flow and pressure of urine. While the exact molecular targets are still being investigated, these compounds are thought to modulate inflammatory pathways and cellular proliferation within the prostate. The bioavailability of these compounds is not extensively studied, but they are generally considered to be absorbed orally.
Side effects
African Pygeum is generally considered safe for short-term use, but it can cause side effects. The most common adverse effects, occurring in over 5% of users, are gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea and stomach upset. Less common side effects, affecting 1-5% of individuals, include headache and dizziness. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, may include allergic reactions. Caution is advised regarding drug interactions; pygeum may potentially interact with blood thinners and other medications that affect the urinary system. Therefore, individuals taking anticoagulant medications or those with bleeding disorders should use pygeum with caution. It is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of sufficient safety data in these populations. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting pygeum, especially if you are on other medications or have pre-existing health conditions.
Dosage
The typical recommended dosage for African Pygeum bark extract ranges from 50 to 100 mg per day of a standardized extract. Most clinical studies have utilized doses between 50 and 200 mg per day. There is no well-defined maximum safe dose, but doses exceeding 200 mg per day are not commonly recommended due to a lack of extensive research at higher levels. To minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects, it is generally best to take pygeum with meals. It is commonly available in capsule or tablet forms. While specific cofactors are not identified, absorption may be enhanced when taken with fatty meals. Consistent daily use is recommended to achieve optimal benefits, with improvements in urinary symptoms potentially becoming noticeable within several weeks of starting supplementation.
FAQs
Should I consult a doctor before taking African Pygeum?
Yes, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting pygeum, especially if you are taking other medications or have pre-existing health conditions, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.
What are the common side effects of African Pygeum?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea and stomach upset. Less common effects include headache and dizziness. Taking it with meals may help reduce these issues.
How long does it take to see benefits from African Pygeum?
Improvements in urinary symptoms may become noticeable within a few weeks to a few months of consistent daily use. It's not an immediate effect, and continued use is often necessary for sustained benefits.
Is African Pygeum a cure for BPH?
No, African Pygeum is not a cure for BPH. It is a supplement that can help alleviate the symptoms associated with BPH, such as poor urine flow and nocturia, but it does not resolve the underlying condition.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7032619/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Wilt et al. (1998) evaluated the efficacy of *Pygeum africanum* for treating BPH. It concluded that pygeum was more effective than placebo in improving urinary symptoms and urodynamic parameters, supporting its use for BPH symptom relief.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11099686/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Ishani et al. (2000) found that pygeum significantly improved peak urine flow and reduced symptoms of BPH compared to placebo. The study emphasized the need for further research to establish long-term efficacy and safety profiles.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2017/3014019 – This review by Komakech et al. (2017) discussed the potential of phytochemicals from *Prunus africana* for chemoprevention and chemotherapy of prostate cancer. It highlighted the anti-inflammatory effects and synergistic compounds in the bark extract that are beneficial for BPH treatment.