Evidence supporting the use of: Pygeum
For the health condition: Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Synopsis of Evidence for Pygeum in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Pygeum africanum (African plum tree) bark extract has been used in traditional African medicine and, more recently, in Europe for the management of urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Scientific interest in pygeum stems from its reported anti-inflammatory, anti-androgenic, and antiproliferative properties, largely attributed to phytosterols, ferulic acid esters, and other lipophilic compounds found in the extract.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, including a 2002 Cochrane review (Wilt et al., 2002), have evaluated pygeum's efficacy in BPH. These studies suggest that pygeum may modestly improve urinary symptoms and flow measures compared to placebo. The improvements, however, are generally mild and not as pronounced as those seen with established pharmaceutical therapies like alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Additionally, the methodological quality of many studies is low, with small sample sizes and short durations.

Overall, while there is some scientific evidence supporting pygeum’s use in BPH, the strength and quality of this evidence are limited. Pygeum appears safe and may offer mild symptomatic relief, but it should not be considered a first-line therapy. Larger, high-quality trials are needed to better define its role in BPH management.

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