Pygeum Africanum
What Is Pygeum africanum?
Also known as the African cherry, Pygeum africanum is an evergreen tree indigenous to central and southern Africa. It has dark green, broad leaves and produces small, white flowers and fleshy fruits that somewhat resemble a cherry.
The tree has a long history in traditional medicine, and has also been used to heal wounds, stimulate the appetite, and extract arrow poison.
Pygeum extract contains a number of active constituents, such as phytosterols (including beta-sitosterol), ursolic and oleanic acids, as well as ferulic acid nesters[1] that contain antioxidant properties.
Pygeum africanum Benefits
An enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone to DHT, a potent androgen that is responsible for male and female pattern baldness. DHT contributes to hair loss by smothering hair follicles until they shrink. Over time this weakens hair growth and can lead to hair loss.
Pygeum africanum Side Effects and Interactions
Side effects of this extract are believed to be rare. The most commonly reported side effect is an upset stomach.
Pygeum africanum Overdose
Symptoms of an overdose of Pygeum africanum may include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and oliguria (production of abnormally small amounts of urine). A Pygeum africanum overdose may be treated with forced diuresis to increase urine formation and kidney dialysis. If you experience any of these symptoms of a Pygeum africanum overdose, talk to your physician as soon as possible.
Pygeum africanum and Hair Loss
One of the main constituents of Pygeum africanum is beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol commonly found in avocados, canola oil, cashews, and almonds. Beta-sitosterol may support healthy hair growth and improve the condition of hair[2] by blocking DHT. Because it stimulates circulation to the scalp, beta-sitosterol helps oxygen and vital nutrients reach hair roots and follicles where they are needed[3].
Pygeum africanum as a Hair Growth Product
HairOmega® DHT Blocker with Biotin
DrFormulas™ HairOmega® DHT Blocker with Biotin combines Pygeum africanum with saw palmetto, red clover, and lycopene, as well as 5,000 milligrams of biotin, so you don’t need to buy a second supplement. Pygeum africanum and saw palmetto help block DHT, while biotin and the other all-natural ingredients help protect hair’s structure and improve its condition. These vegetarian tablets contain no artificial colors, flavors, chemical preservatives, or gluten.
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[1] http://www.altmedrev.com/publications/7/1/71.pdf
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12006122
[3] http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0021967309011091