Standardized Pygeum Extract
Also known as: Pygeum africanum, Pygeum, African plum tree bark extract, Prunus africana
Overview
Pygeum extract is derived from the bark of the *Prunus africana* tree, native to Africa. It is primarily utilized for managing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Its key characteristics include anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and androgen receptor antagonistic properties, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on Pygeum is moderately mature, with multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy. While systematic reviews indicate positive outcomes, some heterogeneity in study designs exists, and larger, more rigorous trials are recommended for definitive conclusions. It is commonly available as an herbal supplement and botanical extract.
Benefits
Pygeum extract significantly improves urinary symptoms in men with BPH, including reductions in nocturia (nighttime urination), urinary frequency, and residual urine volume. Meta-analyses report a moderate effect size (standardized mean difference ~0.38 to 0.5) compared to placebo, indicating clinically meaningful improvements. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase metabolites and downregulating pro-fibrotic growth factors, which contributes to symptom relief. These benefits are primarily observed in men with symptomatic BPH, leading to improvements in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life measures. The effects are typically noticeable within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent treatment. The evidence quality is supported by systematic reviews and meta-analyses, though further large-scale trials could strengthen the evidence base.
How it works
Pygeum's mechanism of action involves several pathways. It contains bioactive compounds like atraric acid and N-butylbenzene-sulfonamide, which act as antagonists to androgen receptors, thereby influencing prostate growth. The extract also inhibits the production of 5-lipoxygenase metabolites, leading to a reduction in prostatic tissue inflammation. Furthermore, Pygeum exhibits antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on prostate fibroblasts by downregulating transforming growth factor β1 and fibroblast growth factor 2 signaling pathways. Beta-sitosterol, a key phytosterol in pygeum, is bioavailable in humans and contributes to these biological effects.
Side effects
Pygeum extract is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile observed in clinical trials. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal upset and nausea. Uncommon side effects, reported in 1-5% of individuals, include rare allergic reactions. Serious adverse events have not been consistently reported, making rare side effects (less than 1%) largely unsubstantiated. While no significant drug interactions have been definitively documented, caution is advised when combining Pygeum with other medications that affect prostate or urinary function, due to potential additive effects or unknown interactions. There are no specific contraindications listed, but individuals with known allergies to *Prunus africana* or its components should avoid use.
Dosage
Typical dosages of standardized Pygeum extract for BPH range from 50 mg to 100 mg per day, often divided into two doses. For instance, 50 mg twice daily or 100 mg once daily. Some studies have used dosages up to 200 mg per day, but 100 mg is most common and effective. The extract should be standardized to contain specific amounts of active compounds, such as total phytosterols. Benefits are usually observed after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use. It is generally recommended to take Pygeum with food to minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds beyond which adverse effects significantly increase, but adhering to recommended dosages is advised. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.
FAQs
What is Pygeum primarily used for?
Pygeum is primarily used to alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men, such as frequent urination and nocturia.
How long does it take to see benefits from Pygeum?
Benefits from Pygeum extract are typically observed within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent daily use, with improvements in urinary symptoms and quality of life.
Are there any significant side effects of Pygeum?
Pygeum is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal upset and nausea. Serious adverse events are rare.
Can Pygeum interact with other medications?
No significant drug interactions have been documented, but caution is advised when combining Pygeum with other medications affecting prostate or urinary function.
What is the recommended dosage for Pygeum?
A common recommended dosage is 50 mg to 100 mg of standardized extract per day, often taken in one or two doses, usually with food.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7032619/ – This article discusses the efficacy of Pygeum in treating BPH symptoms. It highlights that Pygeum significantly improves urinary symptoms like nocturia and frequency, with a moderate effect size compared to placebo, supporting its use for LUTS associated with BPH.
- https://www.tga.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-06/FOI%2025-0132_0.pdf – This document provides regulatory insights into Pygeum, including its classification and safety profile. It confirms the bioavailability of key phytosterols like beta-sitosterol in humans, which contributes to Pygeum's biological effects and overall safety.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11099686/ – This research focuses on the clinical efficacy and safety of Pygeum. It supports the use of Pygeum extract for improving urinary symptoms in men with BPH, noting its good tolerability and moderate effect sizes in reducing symptoms like urinary frequency.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/pygeum – This resource from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center details Pygeum's mechanism of action and potential side effects. It explains how Pygeum's compounds antagonize androgen receptors and inhibit inflammatory pathways, while also listing common mild side effects like gastrointestinal upset.
- https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbmedpro/herb-list/prunus-africana-syn-pygeum-africanum?subCat=Clinical+Trials – This source provides a comprehensive overview of clinical trials related to *Prunus africana*. It summarizes various studies, confirming Pygeum's anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects, and its role in improving BPH symptoms, highlighting the moderate research maturity and evidence quality.
Supplements Containing Standardized Pygeum Extract
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