Pygeum

Prunus africana · Pygeum africanum · African plum tree

Snapshot

Indications	Contraindications
Benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms^1–3 Nocturia^{1, 2} Peak urine flow^{1, 2} Residual urine volume^{1, 2} Hair density (combination product)⁴	Hypersensitivity to Pygeum⁵ Prostate cancer not excluded⁶ Pregnancy or nursing⁷

Pygeum is an extract of the bark of Prunus africana, the African plum tree, traditionally used for lower urinary tract symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)⁸. Laboratory work links it to androgen receptor blockade and reduced inflammatory mediator production⁸. The typical user is an older man with BPH-related frequency, nocturia, and weak flow.⁸ It is also taken in combination products for hair loss and for sexual performance, a use with no scientific support⁸.

Human research is limited to about seven small trials, mostly in urinary symptoms of BPH, with one in hair loss. A Cochrane review found improved urinary symptoms and flow measures versus placebo, though trials were short, used varied preparations, and did not compare against standard BPH medications¹. Later reviews remain split: one found inadequate outcome reporting to recommend it, and another did not recommend phytotherapy for BPH^{9, 10}. In a 2026 in vitro study, Prunus africana bark extract was selectively cytotoxic to hormonally insensitive prostate cancer cells; no human trial has tested it. Products are sold as bark extract or powder and in combination formulas with saw palmetto and pumpkin seed; see Form comparison.

Health Canada labels ask for practitioner consultation before use to exclude prostate cancer, since BPH-type urinary symptoms can have other causes⁶. The European Medicines Agency herbal monograph for traditional use asks for a doctor's review if fever, blood in the urine, painful urination, or retention occurs⁵.

Last updated October 16, 2026. Read how we make monographs.

In the full monograph

38 sources, 24 studies

When to useThe situations practitioners use it for, each with the reason and the study behind it.
SafetyWho should avoid it, who needs extra care, and the side effects reported in studies.
InteractionsThe medicines and supplements it interacts with, the effect of each, and what labeling says to watch.
Protocol notesThe doses used in studies, how and when they were taken, and how the forms on the market compare.
How it worksWhat it is and how it works in the body, in plain terms.
Published studiesThe studies behind each use, popular claims checked against them, and trials still under way.
Word of mouthWhat patients and practitioners report online, kept separate from the clinical evidence.
Clinical perspectiveA closing read of where the evidence is solid, where it is thin, and what has not been studied.

Snapshot

In the full monograph

Sources