Hormonal

Pygeum

African plum bark extract that may modestly ease urinary symptoms from enlarged prostate in older men.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

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Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Overview

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Quick Take

Skip unless you're an older man with urinary symptoms from BPH and have ruled out more serious causes.

Pygeum is an extract from the bark of the African plum tree, Prunus africana. Its phytosterols, triterpenes, and ferulic acid esters appear to reduce inflammatory signaling and growth-factor activity in prostate tissue. Human studies mainly support modest relief of lower urinary tract symptoms, nocturia, and weak urinary flow linked to benign prostate enlargement. It is most relevant for older men with mild-to-moderate BPH symptoms after medical evaluation.

Potential benefits

Reduces BPH symptoms

Improves urinary flow

Reduces nocturia

May improve bladder emptying

May reduce prostate size

Protocol

Amount

100-200 mg

Frequency

Once daily or split into 2 doses

When

With meals to reduce stomach upset.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for symptom relief; reassess fully at 8-12 weeks.

Who Should Consider

Men 50+ with mild-to-moderate BPH symptoms

Men bothered by nocturia after evaluation

Men who prefer a herbal option for LUTS

How It Works

Pygeum bark extract contains phytosterols and triterpenes that appear to reduce inflammatory signaling and growth-factor activity in the prostate. This may lessen tissue swelling around the prostatic urethra and modestly improve urine flow and bladder emptying.

Updated 5/19/2026