Historically, the bark of this
plant has been used primarily for
the treatment of urinary tract
disorders. It, being included
in traditional African medicine, was administered
as a tea for
urinary problems found exclusively in
men. The tea was made from the powdered
bark of the Pygeum tree.
Like
Saw palmetto, Pygeum has been
studied extensively for the
treatment of benign prostatic
hypertrophy (BPH). Although the two
botanicals have a similar mechanism
of action, Pygeum is
considered most effective at reducing the signs
and symptoms of BPH in early
diagnosed cases.
Pygeum has been a
government-sanctioned medicine in
Europe for the treatment of BPH
since for over 30 years. Pygeum
seems to work on the prostate gland
by decreasing inflammation and
removing cholesterol deposits from
the gland, encouraging complete flow
of urine. Other traditional
uses of Pygeum include; kidney
disorders, malaria, upset stomach,
fevers, inflammatory conditions, as
an aphrodisiac, and even to treat
psychological disturbances (i.e.
madness). [1]
Parts Used
The medicinal
component of
Pygeum is its bark. The major
medicinal constituents include
certain types of fatty acids and
fat-soluble sterol compounds. One of
the main constituents, beta-sitosterol,
has been shown to be effective at
treating BPH when administered
alone. Beta-sitosterol
is thought to reduce elevated
prostaglandin levels in those taking
it, which can lead to decreased BPH
symptoms.
Little else is known
about the exact constituents of this
medicine, however, the bark is the
only component currently applied for
medicinal use.
Pygeum Uses
Pygeum is primarily
indicated for benign prostatic
hypertrophy. Pygeum seems to exert its effects by
having an antiproliferative effect
on prostatic fibroblasts and
epithelial cells; two main types of
cells in the gland. [2]
One large study evaluated all
investigations of the efficacy of
pygeum in treating BPH. Overall,
nighttime urination was reduced by
19%; residual bladder urine volume
by 24% and peak urine flow was
increased by 23%. [2]
In addition, pygeum caused only
mild side effects, similar to those caused by a placebo
drug.
Pygeum combined with
saw palmetto may prove to be a formidable
treatment for BPH and other prostate
conditions as well,
as Pygeum works similarly to saw
palmetto on the prostate. [4]
Additionally, Pygeum seems to
improve the function of the bladder
by assisting with bladder
contractile mechanisms, improving
the removal of urine.
The anti-inflammatory
effects of Pygeum seem
to be related to its abilty to slow
the production of inflammatory
chemicals in the body, such as
leukotrienes and the
pro-inflammatory enzyme
5-lipoxygnease. [5]
Other studies of
pygeum demonstrate benefits when
taken by men for prostate problems,
in the absence of other medical
therapies. [6,
7]
One study focusing on Pygeum combined
with nettle root (another beneficial
herb for the prostate gland), also showed
positive benefits on benign
prostatic hypertrophy.
[8]
Pygeum is
typically standardized to contain
13% sterols, which is usually
calculated as beta-sitosterol.
It is
found mainly in combination herbal
products, most of which target
prostate function.
Generally, 50 to 100
milligrams twice per day is taken
for improvement of prostate
conditions. Pygeum can be found in
tincture and capsule delivery forms
as well.
|
Pygeum Toxicities and
Contraindications |
Pygeum Side effects
Pygeum is generally
well tolerated and virtually without
side effects. Limited reports exist,
mentioning nausea and abdominal pain
as a direct result of taking this
herb. [5]
Pygeum General interactions
(supplement, herb, food, lab)
There are no reported
interactions between this herb and
any other supplements, herbs, foods,
or lab tests.
Pygeum Drug interactions
None reported
