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Nutrimartus
PYGEUM AFRICANUM
COMMON NAME : Pygeum, African Pygeum
LATIN NAME : Pygeum africanum or Prunus africana
ACTIVE SUBSTANCES : Phytosterols (sitosterols), Pentacyclic triterpenoids, ferulic esters of long-chain fatty alcohols
DESCRIPTION : Pygeum is a large evergreen tree, growing in the higher plateaus of southern Africa. Traditionally the bark of the tree was collected and powdered, then drunk as a tea for genito-urinary complaints. Recently numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the usefulness of a standardized extract of pygeum for prostatic hyperplasia, particularly benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
PHYSIOLOGY : Pygeum contains three groups of active components: Phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol; pentacyclic triterpenoids, such as ursolic and oleanic acids; and ferulic esters of fatty alcohols, particularly the ferulic esters of docosanol and tetra-cosanol. The phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol are found in numerous plants and are anti-inflammatory, inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins. Beta-sitosterol has been shown to be useful in cases of BPH by helping to reduce the normally elevated levels of prostaglandins in these patients. The elimination of the excess blood and vasal congestion helps reduce the size of prostate adenomas. The pentacyclic triter-penoids also help inhibit inflammation by blocking enzymatic activity. They are effective anti-edema agents and also help increase the integrity of small veins and capillaries. The third active group, the ferulic esters of long-chain fatty acids, act by inhibiting the absorption and metabolism of cholesterol. BPH and other cases of enlarged prostates are characterized by containing abnormally high levels of cholesterol.
ACTIVE PROPERTIES : Pygeum has been studied in numerous double-blind clinical trials and found to be effective in treating a wide range of prostatic hyperplasis. Efficacy was determined by measuring the effects of extracts of pygeum on numerous parameters, including dysuria, nycturia, frequent urination, abdominal heaviness, residual urine, voiding volume, prostate volume, and peak flow. Consumption of pygeum extract resulted in significant amelioration of symptoms, reduction in prostate size, and clearance of bladder neck urethral obstruction.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE : 100-200 mg extract / day in divided quantities for several months.
BIO-ENHANCING AGENTS : Saw Palmetto
TOXICITY, CAUTIONS & CONTRA-INDICATIONS : No toxicity reported in the clinical trials.