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AFRICAN PRUNE
Pygeum africanum / Prunus africana

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Prostate gland disorders ...

Description

Composition :
100% Pygeum africanum cortex - 340 mg

Part used :
Bark

The African Prune (Prunus africana / Pygeum africanum), also known as African Plum, Ironwood, Stinkwood, Pygeum or Bitter Almond, is a evergreen tree native to the mountainous regions of sub-saharan Africa (Zaire, Cameroon, Angola) and the Islands of Madagascar, Sao Tome, Fernando Po and Grande Comores at about 1000–2500 meters (3‘000-8‘000ft) of altitude. The mature tree is 10 – 25 meters (30-75ft) high, open-branched and often pendulous in a forest, shorter and with a round crown of 10–20 meter (30-60ft) diameter in open grassland.

The bark is black to brown, corrugated or fissured and scaly, fissuring in a characteristic rectangular pattern. The leaves are alternate, simple, 8 – 20 cm (3-8in) long, elliptic, bluntly or acutely pointed, glabrous and dark green above, pale green below, with mildly serrate margins. A central vein is depressed on top, prominent on the bottom. The 2 cm petiole is pink or red. The flowers are androgynous, 10-20 stamens, insect-pollinated, 3–8 cm (1-3in), greenish white or buff. The fruit is red to brown, 7–13 mm (0.25-0.5in), wider than long, two-lobed with a seed in each lobe.

The bark of the African Prune contains the substances sitosterol and docosanol which are believed to be effective in treatment of prostate and urinary bladder disorders. In 1971, a study about the medicinal properties oft the African Prune discovered that the bark of the tree may regulate the prostate secretion and reduce swelling of the gland (testosteron is transformed into dihydrotestosteron by way of the enzyme 5-alpha. African Prune bark inhibits the enzyme and therefore the transformation from testosteron to dihydrotestosteron).

African Prune bark may well be combined with Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) and other plants which stimulate kidney function; it does not pose any problems even with prolonged use (no side effects, no toxicity). A regime with of African Prune alternating with Milkflower Willowherb (Epilobium lactiflorum) is very effective in treating prostate problems, as is the combination of African Prune with Pumpkin seeds (Curcubita pepo).

Note: With prostate problems it is important to ensure a good supply of zinc. African Prune bark should not be used by women. If you suspect (or want to rule out) prostate cancer, consult with your physician about therapeutic intervention. In rare cases, African Prune bark may cause light diarrhea (or light constipation).

Dosage

Take 3-6 capsules daily, with plenty of water.

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