Pygeum is an herbal extract that comes from the African cherry tree known as Prunus africanum. The plant and its extract have long been used for medicinal properties, which have caused it to become a vulnerable species.
The commercial harvesting of the pygeum extract has made this beneficial plant endangered. The vast amount of research supporting its health benefits has made pygeum one of the most sought after alternative therapies for several health conditions.
Pygeum and Urinary Tract Health
Pygeum possesses powerful antioxidant properties, allowing it to protect cells and tissue from occasional oxidative stress. The benefits of pygeum have been found to mostly support urinary tract health, by promoting a normal urination schedule and helping reduce common urinary tract symptoms associated with normal aging.
By supporting your immune system in reducing occasional oxidative stress, it can promote healthy urinary tract and bladder function. With regular use, pygeum can support healthy bladder emptying to help you maintain urination comfort and help with frequent bathroom breaks.
Pygeum and Prostate Health
The antioxidant properties of pygeum also allow it to support prostate health. The prostate is responsible for producing much of the fluid that makes semen, and because it continues to grow as part of normal aging, these physiological changes can affect prostate function.
Pygeum helps to reduce occasional oxidative stress to promote healthy prostate cell function and growth. The anatomical location of the prostate is such that as it grows, the urethra and bladder feel pressure. By promoting healthy prostate size, pygeum also supports bladder health and helps maintain a normal urination schedule.
Kidney Health
Your kidneys are an essential part of the urinary tract and any everyday toxins that enter the urinary tract can make their way to the kidneys. By supporting urinary tract health and protecting these tissues from occasional oxidative stress and everyday environmental threats, pygeum can help promote kidney health and function.
Additional Health Benefits of Pygeum
Pygeum’s antioxidant properties allow it to provide health benefits to other areas of the body as well. By reducing occasional oxidative stress, pygeum helps promote healthy immune system responses, so the body is better able to protect against everyday toxins. Pygeum also helps promote digestive health by reducing discomfort caused by occasional indigestion, particularly after eating.
How to Take Pygeum
Pygeum is taken in supplemental form, and the extract is available as a powder or capsules. Directions will vary according to the manufacturer, so you need to stick with the recommended dose provided by your doctor.
On average, the daily recommended dose for pygeum is 100 to 200 milligrams per day. Not all supplements are made of the same quality ingredients, so make sure you buy a highly recommended brand with clinically tested ingredients.
Side Effects and Risks of Taking Pygeum
Research has found pygeum to be safe for use by adults when taken according to recommendations. You should always check with your doctor before starting a pygeum supplement to avoid potential interactions with other supplements or medications you are taking.
Possible side effects of taking pygeum can include:
♦ Nausea
♦ Diarrhea
♦ Constipation
♦ Gastric disturbances
♦ Stomach cramps
♦ Headaches
You need to seek immediate medical attention if after taking pygeum, you notice any of the following:
♦ No urine or trouble urinating
♦ Severe stomach cramps
♦ Tightness in the chest
♦ Bad cough
♦ Swelling in the face or throat
♦ Seizures
The Bottom Line
Pygeum has been used in traditional African medicine to help support urinary tract health. As studies continue to discover the benefits of pygeum for additionally promoting prostate, bladder, and kidney function, supplements with pygeum are quickly becoming a favored alternative.
