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The Curious Bag
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Sometimes called the African prune or African plum, pygeum is a type of tree commonly used by herbalists as a natural remedy. Despite its use in the treatment of prostate enlargement, pygeum poses a risk for some side effects.
Types of Side Effects
Side effects of pygeum include diarrhea, constipation and upset stomach, reports the Physicians Desktop Reference. Though unpleasant, these side effects rarely pose any danger for long-term health complications.
Time Frame
The effects that pygeum may have upon the body when used continuously for more than 12 months are unknown, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Risks
Some patients develop severe allergic reactions to pygeum, causing shortness of breath, chest pain, hives and swelling of the face, throat or extremities, warns the Physician's Desktop Reference.
Expert Insight
New York University's Langone Medical Center reports that the use of pygeum is generally safe for most people. The U.S. National Library of Medicine and RxList also classify pygeum as safe for most healthy individuals.
Considerations
Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, avoid taking pygeum if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of kidney or liver disease, it may not be safe for you to use pygeum, cautions New York University's Langone Medical Center.
Source:
Physicians Desktop Reference: Pygeum
New York University's Langone Medical Center: Pygeum
U.S. National Library of Medicine: Pygeum
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