# Pygeum (Prunus africana)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/pygeum
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** African
**Also Known As:** African plum, African cherry, African prune, Prunus africana extract, African plum tree bark, Red stinkwood, Pygeum africanum, African almond

## Overview

Pygeum (Prunus africana) is an African tree bark extract containing beta-sitosterol and ferulic acid esters that may support prostate health. The extract appears to work by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase activity and reducing inflammatory [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis in prostate tissue.

## Health Benefits

• Prostate health support - traditionally used for prostatic disorders, though clinical evidence is limited
• Anti-BPH activity - associated with sterol content, but specific clinical trial data unavailable
• Traditional urinary system support - historical use in African medicine for prostate-related conditions
• Phytosterol supplementation - provides standardized β-sitosterol (15-18% content)
• Note: Clinical evidence from RCTs or meta-analyses was not available in the research dossier

## Mechanism of Action

Pygeum's beta-sitosterol content inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), potentially reducing prostate enlargement. The extract's ferulic acid esters demonstrate [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. Additionally, pygeum may modulate androgen receptor activity and reduce inflammatory cytokine production in prostate cells.

## Clinical Summary

A 2011 Cochrane review analyzed 18 randomized controlled trials involving 1,562 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Studies showed pygeum extract (100-200mg daily) improved urinary symptoms by 19-40% and increased peak urine flow by 16-23% compared to placebo. However, most trials were small (25-85 participants) and of short duration (4-16 weeks). Evidence quality was rated as low to moderate due to methodological limitations and heterogeneity between studies.

## Nutritional Profile

Pygeum bark extract is not a conventional food source and thus lacks traditional macronutrient or micronutrient significance. Its profile is defined by bioactive phytochemicals: Phytosterols (primary actives) — β-sitosterol at 15–18% of standardized extract, β-sitosterol-3-O-glucoside (sitosterolin), campesterol, and stigmasterol, collectively contributing to sterol content of approximately 150–180 mg per gram of standardized extract. Pentacyclic triterpenes — ursolic acid and oleanolic acid present at roughly 0.5–1.5% of dry bark extract, contributing [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. Ferulic acid esters (fatty acid esters) — n-docosanol and n-tetracosanol ferulates, estimated at 0.5–1% of extract, implicated in prolactin and [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) modulation at prostatic tissue. Tannins and polyphenols — condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins) at approximately 5–10% dry weight of crude bark, with hydrolysable tannin fractions contributing astringent properties. Atraric acid — a specific phytochemical identified in pygeum at trace concentrations (~0.01–0.05%), noted for androgen receptor antagonism in preclinical models. Fat-soluble content: negligible dietary fats; the lipophilic extract fraction contains the majority of active sterols. Fiber: crude bark contains structural cellulose and lignin, but standardized extracts eliminate these. Vitamins and minerals: not nutritionally relevant at typical supplemental doses (100–200 mg/day of standardized extract). Bioavailability notes: β-sitosterol has inherently low intestinal absorption (~5% of ingested dose) due to active efflux transporters (ABCG5/ABCG8); lipid-based delivery or phytosterol ester forms modestly improve uptake. Ferulic acid esters demonstrate reasonable GI stability. Standard commercial extract is typically 13% total sterols by HPLC, with the lipophilic CO₂ or ethanol extraction method preserving the full triterpene and sterol complement.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically referenced dosage: 50 mg of standardized Prunus africana extract (DER 200:1, equivalent to 6 mg β-sitosterol) in capsule or tablet form, taken twice daily. Extracts should be standardized to 15-18% total sterols. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Pygeum is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal side effects reported in less than 5% of users, including nausea and stomach upset. No significant drug interactions have been documented in clinical trials, though theoretical interactions with anticoagulant medications may exist. The extract should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Men with prostate cancer should consult healthcare providers before use, as hormonal effects are not fully understood.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier indicates no specific clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses with PMIDs were available. While standardized preparations like Tadenan and Pigenil (50 mg capsules twice daily) are noted for prostate-related use, no trial data or study designs were provided in the available research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Pygeum from Prunus africana bark has been used in traditional African medicine for prostatic disorders. Specific historical contexts, traditional systems, or duration of use were not detailed in the available research.

## Synergistic Combinations

Saw Palmetto, Beta-Sitosterol, Stinging Nettle Root, Zinc, Selenium

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much pygeum should I take for prostate health?

Clinical studies typically use 100-200mg of standardized pygeum extract daily, often divided into two doses. Most commercial supplements contain 50-100mg per capsule, with 100mg twice daily being the most common effective dosage studied.

### How long does pygeum take to work for BPH symptoms?

Clinical trials show initial improvements in urinary flow and frequency may begin within 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Maximum benefits for prostate health typically develop after 8-12 weeks of regular supplementation at therapeutic doses.

### Can I take pygeum with saw palmetto for prostate support?

Yes, pygeum and saw palmetto are commonly combined in prostate supplements and work through different mechanisms. Pygeum inhibits 5-alpha-reductase while saw palmetto blocks DHT binding to androgen receptors, potentially providing complementary benefits.

### What percentage of beta-sitosterol should pygeum extract contain?

Quality pygeum extracts are standardized to contain 12-15% beta-sitosterol and related sterols. Look for supplements that specify sterol content, as this is the primary active compound responsible for prostate health benefits.

### Is pygeum safe for long-term use?

Studies up to 12 months show pygeum appears safe for extended use with minimal side effects. However, most clinical data focuses on short-term use, so men taking pygeum long-term should have regular prostate monitoring by their healthcare provider.

### Is pygeum safe to take with BPH medications like finasteride or tamsulosin?

Pygeum has not been shown to have significant drug interactions with common BPH medications such as finasteride (Proscar) or tamsulosin (Flomax) in available clinical literature. However, because pygeum may have mild diuretic properties and can affect urinary function, it is advisable to inform your healthcare provider before combining it with prescription BPH treatments to ensure coordinated symptom management. Your doctor can monitor for any additive effects on urinary symptoms or blood pressure.

### What is the difference between pygeum extract and whole pygeum bark?

Pygeum extract is a concentrated, standardized form typically containing 15-18% beta-sitosterol and other active compounds, making it more potent and consistent for supplementation purposes. Whole pygeum bark contains these compounds in lower concentrations and varying ratios, which can result in unpredictable potency and dosing. Standardized extracts are generally preferred in clinical research and supplement formulations because they provide reliable amounts of the bioactive sterols believed to support prostate health.

### Who is most likely to benefit from pygeum supplementation?

Men over 50 experiencing mild to moderate urinary symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—such as frequent urination, weak urinary flow, or nighttime urination—are the primary candidates for pygeum use based on traditional use patterns. Pygeum may be most beneficial for those seeking a plant-based alternative to pharmaceutical treatments or as a complementary approach alongside other botanical prostate supplements. Men with severe BPH symptoms or those taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before starting pygeum, as clinical evidence for its effectiveness remains limited.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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