Pygeum africanum is a large evergreen tree found in southern Africa. The extracts from the bark contain several compounds thought to be helpful in prostate health and have been used for more than 40 years in France, Germany, and Austria for patients suffering from prostate enlargement. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate that occurs in most men over 60, can lead to urinary frequency and nocturia (waking up at night to go to the bathroom). Frequent interruption of sleep leads to daytime tiredness. The pharmacologic use of plants and herbs for the treatment of BPH has been growing steadily and a well-known herb used for this purpose is Saw palmetto. The extract of the African prune tree, pygeum africanum, is one of several herbal agents used by many men who have BPH.
