Pygeum africanum or Prunus africana

Description: Pygeum is an evergreen tree found in Africa. The bark of this herb contains fat-soluble sterols and fatty acids which aid in urinary tract infections. Recently, the extract of Pygeum has been found to be useful for prostatic hyperplasia, especially benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Parts Used: Bark

Common Use: The main use of this herb is to aid with urinary difficulties and prostate complications. One of the active groups of the long chain fatty acid increases the integrity of small veins and capillaries. Those with cases of BPH contain abnormally high levels of cholesterol. The 3rd group of long chain fatty acid of Pygeum inhibits the absorption and metabolism of cholesterol; therefore, people suffering from BPH may find some benefit by taking Pygeum.

Origin: Southern and Central Africa, Madagascar

Active Substances: Phytosterols (sitosterols), Pentacyclic triterpenoids, ferulic esters of long chain fatty alcohols.

Standard: 12% phytosterols (beta-sitosterol)

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:100-200 mg of extract per day in divided quantities. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:The bio-enhancing agent is Saw Palmetto.

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:There have been no reported toxicities. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:Pygeum has been taken for various urinary difficulties. These include frequent urination, stangury or painful urination, urine retention, and nocturnal urination. This herb is also beneficial prostatitis and adenomatous fibrosclerosis.

Analysis:Type standard extract, Standardization 12.36% Beta sitosterol, Character brown soft mass, Loss on drying 1.05%, Ash 0.35%, Microbiological specifications absent.