2007 Photo by Marco Schmidt. Bark harvested for medicine, Mt. Cameroon

According to a recent article in the medical journal Endocrine, “An extract from the bark of Pygeum africanum has been used in Europe as a prevention and treatment of prostate disorders including benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).”

The European interest in the all-natural bark of the African plum tree called Pygeum africanum, or Prunus africana, dates back to the 18th century when travelers from Europe acquired knowledge from South Africa regarding the benefits of pygeum bark for the urinary health of older men.  

The urinary problems associated with the natural process of aging common to most men, was once referred to as “old man’s disease.” Due to the aging process, the prostate can continually grow larger which can interfere with a normal urinary function.  In fact, 90% of men 80 years and older have some degree of prostate enlargement.  Men over age 40 are also at risk.

Interest in the use of pygeum bark and saw palmetto for prostate health has extended to the United States.   (more…)