Nighttime bathroom trips and weak urine flow are annoying. Pygeum, a bark extract from the African cherry tree, is a popular herbal option men try for those exact problems. You’ll see it sold as a standardized extract for prostate and urinary symptoms. Below I’ll explain what it can do, how to use it, and what to watch for.
Pygeum contains phytosterols and fatty acids that seem to lower prostate inflammation and improve urine flow. Clinical trials and a few meta-analyses show modest benefits: reduced nighttime urination, better peak urine flow, and lower symptom scores in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Expect small-to-moderate changes, not a miracle cure.
Most studies ran for 8–12 weeks and reported improvements in symptoms like urgency and nocturia. Results vary between men, and pygeum works better for mild-to-moderate symptoms. If you have severe blockage, sudden inability to urinate, or blood in the urine, seek medical care right away.
Common dose in trials is 50–100 mg of a standardized pygeum extract, taken once or twice daily. Many brands standardize to a specific sterol content; that helps with consistency. Give it at least 4–8 weeks to see an effect, and some men use it for several months.
Side effects are usually mild: stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or headache. Allergic reactions are rare. There’s limited data on interactions, but mention pygeum to your clinician if you take blood thinners or other prostate meds. It’s not meant for pregnant or breastfeeding people.
Pygeum doesn’t replace prescription treatment for moderate-to-severe BPH or prostate cancer. If you’re on alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, do not stop those without talking to your doctor. Use pygeum as an add-on or for mild symptoms after checking with a clinician.
Want to try it? Look for a few quality clues: pick a brand that lists the extract percentage or sterol content, avoids strange fillers, and uses third-party testing or certifications. Read recent user reviews and check expiration dates. Buying from a known retailer or pharmacy lowers the chance of counterfeit or low-potency products.
Simple lifestyle moves help too: cut caffeine and alcohol in the evening, limit fluids before bed, and practice pelvic floor exercises. Those paired with pygeum can boost comfort faster than any single step alone.
If symptoms change, get checked. A rising PSA, new pain, or blood in the urine needs prompt review. Pygeum can ease symptoms for many men, but it’s one tool among several. Try it sensibly, watch how you feel, and keep your clinician in the loop.