What to know about Pygeum africanum (african plum) before using it medicinally

Pygeum africanum, commonly known as African plum, is a herb that has been used for centuries to improve prostate health, reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer.

The herb is also known for its ability to grow in dry climates and can be cultivated in a variety of conditions, making it a hardy and adaptable plant. Botanically, Pygeum africanum is a species of tree that belongs to the Prunus family, characterized by its distinctive bark and edible fruit.

The herb has been mentioned in traditional African medicine for centuries, with references to its use dating back to ancient Egypt and other African civilizations.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Pygeum africanum .

What are the medicinal properties of Pygeum africanum ?

Pygeum africanum, also known as African plum, helps with conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), nocturia, and improved urine flow. Its medicinal uses also extend to treating male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and alopecia.

The active constituents responsible for Pygeum africanum's medicinal properties are phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

The bark of the Pygeum africanum tree is the most commonly used part for medicinal purposes. It is typically harvested, dried, and processed into various forms, including capsules, tablets, and extracts.

Improper use of Pygeum africanum can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, headaches, and allergic reactions. High doses may also interact with certain medications.

To ensure safe use of Pygeum africanum, individuals should consult a healthcare professional before consumption, particularly if they have pre-existing medical conditions, take medications, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.

What are the horticulural aspects of Pygeum africanum ?

Pygeum africanum, also known as African plum, grow well in well-draining, sandy soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring temperatures between 15°C and 30°C for optimal growth.

For optimal growth, plant Pygeum africanum seeds 1-2 cm deep in a nursery or greenhouse, providing adequate moisture and maintaining temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Transplant seedlings to a larger container when 15-20 cm tall.

Harvest Pygeum africanum fruit when ripe, typically between October and December in the Northern Hemisphere. Remove the fruit from the tree with scissors or a knife, leaving a small portion of stem attached to prevent damage. Harvest regularly to promote continuous fruiting.

Common pests affecting Pygeum africanum include the fruit borer and the scale insect. Diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and fungal leaf blight can also affect the plant, typically resulting from overwatering or poor soil drainage.

What are the botanical aspects of Pygeum africanum ?

Pygeum africanum, also known as African plum, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Proteaceae. It has a conical crown and a straight trunk, reaching up to 15 meters in height. Its bark is grayish-brown, while its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and have a leathery texture.

The taxonomical classification of Pygeum africanum places it in the genus Prunus, which is further divided into two subgenera: Cerasus and Prunus. Its specific epithet, africanum, indicates its origin in Africa. The species is also known as Pygeum communis. This classification reflects its botanical relationships with other species in the genus.

There are several variants of Pygeum africanum, including Prunus africana var. communis and Prunus communis. Some sources also recognize Prunus africana as a separate species. These variants differ slightly in their leaf morphology, flower structure, and fruit size.

Pygeum africanum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of central and southern Africa, including countries such as South Africa, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is commonly found in woodland and savanna environments, where it grows in well-drained soils at elevations up to 1,800 meters.

The life cycle of Pygeum africanum involves a period of dormancy during the dry season, after which it produces new growth, flowers, and eventually fruits. The fruit, a drupe, contains a single seed and ripens in autumn. The tree can live for up to 50 years, with some specimens reportedly reaching ages over 100 years.

What are the historical aspects of Pygeum africanum ?

Pygeum africanum, also known as African plum, is a tree native to central and southern Africa. Its bark, seeds, and leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions.

In many African cultures, the African plum tree is associated with mythological figures. In Yoruba mythology, the tree is said to have been planted by the god of the forest, while in other cultures, the tree is believed to have healing powers due to its association with the spirits of the dead.

The African plum tree is often used as a symbol in art and literature. In some cultures, the tree's seeds are seen as a symbol of fertility, while its bark is used in traditional rituals to purify and protect. The tree's association with fertility and protection is also reflected in its use as a motif in traditional textiles.

The use of Pygeum africanum in traditional medicine is mentioned in several historical texts, including the 19th-century writings of British botanist John Kirk. The plant's properties were also described by German explorer Heinrich Barth in the 19th century.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the African plum tree was also used in ancient times. Excavations at the ancient city of Timbuktu have uncovered artifacts, including pottery and carvings, that feature the African plum tree as a motif. The tree's use in traditional rituals is also reflected in the discovery of ritualistic objects, such as masks and figurines, that feature the tree's symbols.