African Cherry Bark
Prunus africana
B Limited clinical evidenceEMA recognises African cherry (pygeum) bark extract as a traditional remedy for urinary symptoms of benign prostate enlargement. See a doctor first.
African Cherry BarkOn this page
At a glance
African cherry (Prunus africana, formerly Pygeum africanum) is an African tree whose bark is extracted. EMA recognises the traditional use of a standardised bark extract for lower urinary tract symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. A Cochrane review found moderate symptom improvement in small, short trials.
Updated: October 24, 2026
Sources include an EMA HMPC monograph. Its scope is limited to the specified species, plant part and preparation; this is not professional approval.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Documents traditional use, not clinical efficacy or safety for everyone.
How do we rate evidence levels? →EMA recognises a standardised African cherry bark extract as a traditional herbal medicinal product for the relief of lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia, after a doctor has ruled out serious conditions. [1]
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Limited human data; small samples, methodological problems or inconsistent results reduce certainty. Findings do not apply to every product.
How do we rate evidence levels? →In a Cochrane review of 18 randomized trials in 1,562 men, pygeum extract moderately improved symptoms compared with placebo; night-time urination fell by 19%, residual urine by 24% and urine flow rose by 23%. The trials were small and short (mean 64 days), with no comparison to standard drugs. [2]
How is it used?
Food
The standardised bark extract is taken by mouth as capsules or tablets. Long-term use is possible; the bark itself is not prepared at home.
Amount: 100 mg standardised extract a day (50 mg twice daily)
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 18 years
- Before use, a doctor must rule out serious conditions such as prostate cancer.
- See a doctor promptly if you have fever, cramps, blood in the urine, painful urination or cannot pass urine.
- For adult men only; there is no relevant use in women or under 18.
- Do not stop prostate medicine without asking your doctor; pygeum has not been compared with standard drugs.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Rarely digestive complaints such as nausea, constipation or diarrhoea
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Frequently asked questions
Is pygeum good for the prostate?
EMA recognises standardised bark extract as a traditional use for urinary symptoms of benign prostate enlargement. A Cochrane review found moderate symptom improvement in small trials.
What is the difference between pygeum and saw palmetto?
Both are different plants used for symptoms of benign prostate enlargement. Pygeum is a tree bark extract, while saw palmetto is a fruit extract.
Does pygeum reduce night-time urination?
In the Cochrane review, night-time urination fell by about 19% compared with placebo; the trials were small and short.
Do I need to see a doctor before taking pygeum?
Yes. EMA requires a doctor to rule out serious diseases such as prostate cancer before use.
Does pygeum have side effects?
Nausea, constipation or diarrhoea can occur rarely. In the Cochrane review, side effects were mild and similar to placebo.
Sources
Source type is not an efficacy rating. A monograph may document traditional use or safety. Claim numbers link to the relevant source; the access date does not indicate professional approval.
- European Union herbal monograph on Prunus africana (Hook f.) Kalkm., cortexEMA HMPC · 2016 · MonographSource accessed:
- Pygeum africanum for benign prostatic hyperplasiaCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews · 2011 · Systematic reviewSource accessed:
Cite This Page
African Cherry Bark (Prunus africana). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/african-cherry-bark/
Related guides and comparisons
Related herbs
Ashwagandha
B Limited clinical evidenceWithania somnifera (L.) Dunal
Ashwagandha root extracts have limited evidence for stress and sleep. Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and liver disease; drug interactions are possible.
MacaMaca
B Limited clinical evidenceLepidium meyenii
Maca root powder has been tried for sexual desire and function in small studies; evidence is limited. Take care in pregnancy and hormone-sensitive cancers.
Pumpkin Seed
B Limited clinical evidenceCucurbita pepo
Pumpkin seed is traditionally used for urinary symptoms of benign prostate enlargement or overactive bladder, after a doctor rules out serious disease.
Tribulus
B Limited clinical evidenceTribulus terrestris
The spiny fruit known as tribulus. It has not been shown to raise testosterone or muscle strength; small studies saw limited benefit for libido.
Small-Flowered Willowherb
T Traditional useEpilobium parviflorum
Traditionally taken as a tea for lower urinary tract symptoms of benign prostate enlargement, after a doctor has ruled out serious conditions.
Ferula Root Water
C Laboratory / animal evidenceFerula spp.
A drink made from Ferula (çakşır) root, traditionally used for male sexual vigour. Its effect has only been studied in animals.
Other herbs in the same preparation form (Clay, Soap & Other)
Clay, Soap & Other →
Horse Chestnut
A Strong clinical evidenceAesculus hippocastanum
Standardised horse chestnut seed extract may help chronic venous insufficiency with swollen, heavy, aching legs; never eat raw conkers.
Aloe Vera
B Limited clinical evidenceAloe vera (L.) Burm.f.
Aloe vera inner-leaf gel may shorten healing time in some burn studies. This entry covers topical use; swallowing yellow aloe latex carries notable risks.
Black GarlicBlack Garlic
B Limited clinical evidenceAllium sativum
In one small trial, black garlic extract slightly lowered diastolic blood pressure; cholesterol results are inconsistent. Take care with blood thinners.
CranberryCranberry
B Limited clinical evidenceVaccinium macrocarpon
Cranberry products may lower the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections; they do not clear an existing infection. People on warfarin should ask first.
