Known also as prunus Africana, red stinkwood, iron wood and African prune, pygeum is an evergreen tree native to Africa. The active ingredients in pygeum responsible for its activities are beta – sitosterol, pentacyclic terpenes, and ferulic acid.
The mechanism of action of pygeum is the same as that of saw palmetto. Basically, it blocks the enzyme 5 –alpha reductase, reducing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Athletic Benefits of Pygeum:
- It may boost testosterone level.
- It may protect from overtraining syndrome.
- It may delay fatigue.
Non – Athletic Benefits of Pygeum:
The following conditions may benefit from pygeum:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Prostatitis.
- Hair loss.
- Low sex drive.
Dosage:
Pygeum africanum is available commercially in tablet, capsule, or liquid form either alone or in combination. The usual dosage is 100 – 200 mg a day.