Pygeum

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 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 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 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.

Beta-sitosterol

Beta-sitosterol is a type of chemical called a plant sterol. It's similar to cholesterol and is found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. 

 

Beta-sitosterol might help reduce cholesterol levels by limiting the amount of cholesterol that is able to enter the body.

Supplements that may be similar and used for the same health conditions as beta-sitosterol include:

• Pygeum: A herb that may be used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), pygeum has been used as an adjunct therapy for men with BPH and has been shown to improve symptoms and urine flow.

• Niacin: One of the B-vitamins, Niacin supplements have been used to treat high cholesterol. Niacin is thought to work by raising your HDL "good" cholesterol and lowering your LDL "bad" cholesterol.

• Alpha-lipoic Acid: This supplement has also been studied in type 2 diabetes. It has been found to increase insulin sensitivity and increase glucose uptake by cells, which results in lower blood sugar levels.

• Resveratrol: A polyphenol and antioxidant, resveratrol is said to contain anti-inflammatory effects. It may help reduce low-grade inflammation.

• Biotin: A deficiency in biotin, one of the B-vitamins your body needs, can result in hair loss. Using biotin supplements may help with hair loss.