Couch Grass (Elymus repens) vs Pygeum (Pygeum africanum)

Couch Grass (Elymus repens)

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum)

About

Couch grass is a vigorous perennial growing to 32 inches with a long, creeping rhizome, slender leaves, and erect spikes bearing green flowers aligned in two rows. Found in Europe, the Americas, northern Asia, and Australia, it is an invasive weed harvested throughout the year. In classical times, both Dioscorides (40-90 CE) and Pliny (23-79 CE) recommended couch grass root for poor urine flow and kidney stones. The herbalist John Gerard wrote in 1597 that 'Couch-grasse be an unwelcome guest to fields and gardens, yet his physicke virtues do recompense those hurts; for it openeth the stoppings of the liver and reins [ureters] without heat.' In times of famine, the root was roasted and ground as a substitute for coffee and flour.

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum) is an evergreen tree growing up to about 115 ft (35 m), with oblong leaves, white flowers, and red berries. Its bark extract has gained recognition for supporting prostate health, especially in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as well as providing mild anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects.

Safety & precautions

Generally safe. No known warnings for normal use.

Professional Supervision: Typically recommended if you have an existing medical condition or are on other medications. General: Considered safe at normal dosages.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.