[Lotus]

This subject is very interesting, but I'm confused.
I hope some one can set me straight on this because I'm planning to make a change in my program next week (currently PM + Spearmint) by adding Pygeum (an anti-5 alpha reductase).

Pygeum - pygeum extract is the most popular treatment for BPH. When compared with saw palmetto in a clinical trial, it was demonstrated that saw palmetto produced greater reduction of symptoms and was better tolerated. However, PAE may have greater effects on prostate secretion. By improving an underlying problem, PAE may improve sexual function. Pygeum clinical trials (mostly European) are encouraging, but more research is needed in the US.

Pygeum contains several compounds, including anti-inflammatories and enzymes that decrease testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormones. Studies (see References) report that the positive effects of pygeum on the human body include normalization of glandular activity, increase in prostatic secretions and an increase in estrogen and antiestrogen. Pygeum has not been shown to reduce the size of the prostate gland or reverse the process of BPH. It is also not clear how pygeum compares to prescription medicines currently on the market.
Great article- don't knock it-
Read more: http://www.ehow.com/about_5105750_pygeum...z2ruFbhaxp

Search 5-ar and you'll get so much on hair-loss check this one out-

Estrogen taken oraly has been shown to completely reverse male pattern baldness in transgender patients. However estrogen competes with and shuts down the male hormone Testosterone and causes feminization including breast growth and female pattern fat deposits.
http://www.follacure.com/t/estrogenB
http://www.hairlosstalk.com/interact/sho...gen-in-Men

However, pygeum does not appear to reduce the size of the prostate gland or reverse the process of BPH. It is unclear how pygeum compares to the effectiveness or safety of other medical therapies, such as prescription drugs (e.g. alpha-adrenergic blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors), surgical approaches, or other herbs/supplements such as saw palmetto. There is ongoing study in this area. Patients with urinary symptoms or BPH should speak with their healthcare professional about the various available treatment options.[1]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pygeum_(herbal_remedy)


Clara- I haven't taken Pygeum, so I can't give first hand experience other than what I found. But!, I like what It can do, I'm sure you've read all the side-effects and interactions and know the risks.


Btw, this was supposed to go with the first post:

Conversion of Testosterone to Estradiol and Dihydrotestosterone
http://thinksteroids.com/forum/mens-heal...94117.html