Pygeum Africanum, commonly known as the African cherry tree or Prunus africana, is a towering evergreen tree native to the mountainous regions of central and southern Africa. Found in countries such as Cameroon, Kenya, and Madagascar, this tree has played an important role in traditional medicine for centuries.
In traditional African medicine, Pygeum Africanum has been used for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties. Some of its key applications included:
Urinary Health: Remedies made from the bark were commonly used to alleviate difficulty in urination or discomfort caused by infections.
Fever and Malaria: Decoctions from the bark were believed to help reduce fever and fight symptoms of malaria.
Kidney Health: Pygeum was also thought to support kidney function, helping the body eliminate toxins effectively.
These uses highlight the plant’s historical role as a versatile remedy in African medicine. However, while Pygeum Africanum has been traditionally used to treat these various conditions, beyond its prostate and urinary benefits, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is currently limited.
How Does Pygeum africanum Work?
The efficacy of Pygeum Africanum in alleviating BPH symptoms is believed to stem from its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that the bark extract can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins in the prostate and reduce the production of leukotrienes, thereby mitigating inflammation.
The bark of Pygeum Africanum contains a range of active compounds, including:
Phytosterols (such as beta-sitosterol): These compounds are known to reduce inflammation and inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to prostate enlargement.
Triterpenes: These are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, protecting the prostate and urinary tract from oxidative stress.
Fatty acids: They contribute to the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve urinary function.
In contemporary times, extracts from the bark of Pygeum Africanum have garnered attention for their potential health benefits, particularly concerning prostate health. Research indicates that these extracts may assist in managing symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterised by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. A systematic review highlighted that men using Pygeum africanum were more than twice as likely to report an improvement in overall symptoms compared to those receiving a placebo. Common benefits included: greater ease in bladder emptying, reduced nighttime urination (nocturia), and improved urine flow.
Pygeum Africanum is a remarkable plant with a rich history in traditional African medicine and a growing body of evidence supporting its benefits for prostate health. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a valuable natural option for men dealing with BPH symptoms, while its historical uses suggest it may have additional potential for urinary and overall health.
