Pygeum africanum

This large evergreen tree grows in Africa at an altitude of 1000 to 2500 m, on the plateaus of South and Central Africa, the hills of Zaire, Cameroon and Angola, but also in Madagascar, Sudan and Ethiopia. The bark has long been used there very effectively against prostate and bladder diseases. The success is due to the active ingredients sitosterol, but especially docosanol. The conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone is effected by the enzyme 5-alpha. Pygeum inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha and thus the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. This inhibits cell growth in the prostate. A study on the use of Pygeum was published as early as 1971. A normalization of prostate secretion and a reduction in swelling of the enlarged gland were observed. Even with prolonged use, no side effects are known and there is no toxicity. Pygeum africanum can be excellently combined with Serenoa repens or other plants that stimulate the kidneys. Alternating with the small-flowered willowherb is particularly recommended. For prostate problems, it is important to keep the zinc balance in equilibrium. Pumpkin seeds also do a good job. In most cases, prostate enlargement is benign and is hardly noticed. "Urine dribbling" can be an indication of an enlarged prostate. Pygeum africanum can be a good prophylactic for the prostate. Pygeum africanum does not appear to have any significant effect against 5-alpha-reductase. In addition, Pygeum africanum can help to prevent fibroblasts (scar tissue-like cell types) from growing. As a result, the prostate tends to shrink. There have been about ten prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind studies of this medication for BPH, and the conclusion is that while the mechanism of action of this agent remains unclear, it is apparent that for patients suffering from mild to moderate BPH, Pygeum africanum may provide benefit. We therefore believe that you can safely take this product if you are being treated for prostate cancer.

Need in sports

It appears that some of the active ingredients compete with androgenic precursors, reducing prostate aglandin levels within the prostate and thus causing less inflammation. This may reduce swelling. Other chemicals appear to reduce androgen production in the prostate. The recommended dosage appears to be 50-100mg a day. There are no known side effects, but in some rare cases, nausea may occur when taking Pygeum.