Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Pygeum bark extract

Also known as: Pygeum africanum, African plum tree, African prune tree

Overview

Pygeum africanum is a plant native to Africa, and its bark extract is used as a phytotherapeutic agent. The primary use of Pygeum bark extract is for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by non-malignant enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The extract contains various sterols, including beta-sitosterol, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research maturity is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available. However, the quality of evidence is limited by the small size and short duration of many studies, as well as variability in study design and reporting. It is available in capsule and tablet form, typically containing standardized extracts of sterols.

Benefits

Pygeum bark extract has been shown to improve urologic symptoms and flow measures in men with BPH. Studies indicate a moderate improvement in symptoms compared to placebo, with men being more than twice as likely to report symptom improvement (risk ratio = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.40 to 3.1). Specific benefits include a 19% decrease in nocturia, a 23% increase in peak urine flow, and a 24% decrease in residual urine volume. There is also some evidence suggesting anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects in BPH by reducing pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. The effect size for symptom improvement is moderate, with an effect size of approximately -0.8 SD (95% CI: -1.4 to -0.3). Benefits may be observed within 30 to 122 days.

How it works

Pygeum bark extract is believed to exert its effects through several mechanisms. It has anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which may reduce inflammation in the prostate. It may also have effects on androgen metabolism, though this is less well understood. Primarily, it affects the urinary system by improving flow and reducing symptoms associated with BPH.

Side effects

Pygeum bark extract is generally considered safe with mild side effects similar to placebo. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances, though specific frequencies are not well-documented. Potential interactions with other medications affecting the prostate or urinary system exist, though specific interactions are not well-studied. Caution is advised in patients with severe prostate conditions or those undergoing surgery. Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women is not well-studied and should be approached with caution.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose is typically standardized extracts containing 25-100 mg of sterols per capsule. The optimal dosage range is 50-100 mg per day, though optimal dosing is not well-established. Doses above 100 mg per day are not commonly recommended. There are no specific timing recommendations; it is typically taken once or twice daily. Capsules or tablets are common forms. Bioavailability is not well-studied.

FAQs

Is Pygeum bark extract effective for BPH?

Pygeum bark extract may help improve urinary symptoms in men with BPH, but its effectiveness compared to standard medications is not well-established.

What are the safety and side effects of Pygeum bark extract?

It is generally considered safe with mild side effects, but long-term safety data are limited. Gastrointestinal issues are the most commonly reported side effect.

When and how should I take Pygeum bark extract?

No specific timing is recommended; it can be taken once or twice daily. Follow the dosage recommendations on the product label or as advised by a healthcare provider.

How long does it take to see results from Pygeum bark extract?

Improvements in urinary symptoms may be noticeable within a few weeks to months of consistent use.

Is Pygeum bark extract a cure for BPH?

No, it is not a cure for BPH but may help manage symptoms associated with the condition.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/15/8298 – A recent in vitro study (2024) demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potential of Pygeum africanum bark extract by reducing cytokine release in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, supporting its potential use in managing conditions involving inflammation. The study's limitations include its in vitro nature, which may not fully represent in vivo conditions.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11869585/ – Wilt et al. (2002) published a review discussing the potential of Pygeum africanum as a treatment option for BPH, highlighting the need for further research to compare its efficacy with standard pharmacologic treatments. The review emphasizes the importance of rigorous clinical trials to determine the true effectiveness of Pygeum africanum.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11099686/ – Ishani et al. (2000) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis including 18 RCTs involving 1,562 men with symptomatic BPH. The review found that Pygeum africanum extract showed a moderate improvement in urologic symptoms and flow measures compared to placebo, with men being more than twice as likely to report symptom improvement.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39125867/ – This citation refers to the same Ishani et al. (2000) meta-analysis, which included 18 RCTs involving 1,562 men with symptomatic BPH. The study found that Pygeum africanum extract showed a moderate improvement in urologic symptoms and flow measures compared to placebo, with men being more than twice as likely to report symptom improvement.
https://silvershell.com.tr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Ref.-39.-Ishani-et-al-2000.pdf – This is another source for the Ishani et al. (2000) systematic review and meta-analysis. The review included 18 RCTs involving 1,562 men with symptomatic BPH and found that Pygeum africanum extract showed a moderate improvement in urologic symptoms and flow measures compared to placebo.