African pigeo

The African pigeo (Pygeum africanum Hook f., Syn. Prunus Africana Kalk.) Is an evergreen tree, about thirty meters high, which grows in the forests of equatorial Africa. In phytotherapy the bark is used, to which antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and support properties in the symptomatic treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy are ascribed. .

Parts used and properties

The dried bark of the African pigeo has a variable color from red to blackish-brown, with a strong smell reminiscent of that of almond. The most significant constituents present in its lipophilic extract include phytosterols (β-sitosterol is the most representative), fatty acids (including myristic, palmitic, linoleic, oleic, stearic and arachidonic acid), triterpenoids (ursolic acid, oleanolic acid etc.) and alcohols (docosanol etc.).

The African pige owes its anti-inflammatory action to the inhibitory activity on the 5 lipo-oxygenase, which determines a lower formation of the inflammatory mediators catalyzed by this enzyme, in particular of leukotriene B4.

In vitro studies have shown that Pygeum africanum inhibits the proliferation of prostate fibroblasts induced by growth factors such as EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor), bFGF (basic Fibroblast Growth Factor) and IGF-I (Insulin-like Growth Factor). The African pigeo is also a weak inhibitor of the 5 alpha-reductase enzyme and this effect, together with the previous one, could give this "plant drug" a preventive and therapeutic role in the presence of benign prostatic hypertrophy.

In a multicenter study, an extract of Pygeum (Tadenan) has shown good efficacy in the symptomatic treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Administered at doses of 100 mg per day for two months, followed by a month of suspension, Tadenan has in fact guaranteed a significant improvement in quality of life (+ 40%) and IPSS * (+ 31%), with a 32% reduction in nocturia episodes. There were also significant improvements in maximum and average urinary flow and in emptied urinary volume. The prostate volume and the quality of sexual life remained unchanged.

In another double-blind study involving 134 subjects, 25 mg of African pigeo extracts and 300 mg of nettle root extract, taken for eight weeks, were able to significantly improve the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy. in particular with regard to nocturia, already after 28 days of treatment.

 

Edgar AD, Levin R, Constantinou CE, Denis L. A critical review of the pharmacology of the plant extract of Pygeum africanum in the treatment of LUTS. Neurourol Urodyn 2007; 26: 458-63.

Breza J, Dzurny O, Borowka A et al. Efficacy and acceptability of tadenan (Pygeum africanum extract) in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): a multicentre trial in Central Europe. Curr Med Res Opin 1998; 14: 127-39.

Krzeski T, Kazòn M, Borkowski A, Witeska A, Kuczera J. Combined extracts of Urtica dioica and Pygeum africanum in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: double blind comparison of two doses. Clin. Ther. 1993 Nov-Dec; 15: 1011-1020.

* IPSS is a test used internationally to classify the many different symptoms that accompany an enlarged prostate.

How to use

Daily dose: one gram of micronized drug or 75-200 mg of standardized lipidosterolic extract, in divided doses, to be taken on a full stomach to minimize possible gastrointestinal effects.

Contraindications, interactions and adverse effects

The lipophilic extract of African pigeo is generally well tolerated. Few cases of side effects such as headache and gastrointestinal disturbances of negligible and transient severity, such as nausea, diarrhea and gastralgia, have been reported.

Considering the possible interference on the metabolism of androgens and estrogens, the use of the extracts is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation and in children under the age of 12. Possible interference with hormonal therapies, and by summation of action, should also be noted. with finasteride and dutasteride (drugs widely used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and prostatic hypertrophy). In any case, prior to taking it, a prescription and medical check-up is required.

Note

In Italy, the African pigeo is currently included in the list of herbs not allowed in food supplements; therefore no products of this type are commercially available. On the other hand, the use of plant drugs with a similar action and use profile, such as extracts of pumpkin seeds and serenoa repens (dried ripe fruit), is allowed.

The African pigeo is however used as a drug in some registered medical specialties.

Other articles on "African Pigeo"

1. Pumpkin seeds and prostate health
2. Prostatic hypertrophy
3. Drugs for the treatment of Prostatic Hypertrophy
4. Diet for benign prostatic hypertrophy
5. Prostatic hypertrophy - Herbal medicine
6. Serenoa repens, prostate and hair
7. Nettle and prostate health

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