Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum) vs Pygeum (Pygeum africanum)

Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum)

Pygeum (Pygeum africanum)

About

Gravel root is an erect perennial growing to 5 feet with whorls of pointed oblong leaves and clusters of purple-pink florets. Native to eastern North America, the root is unearthed in autumn. The plant's alternative name, Joe Pye weed, honors the Native American said to have used it to cure New Englanders of typhus. Native Americans valued the herb as a diuretic and remedy for genitourinary conditions, and the root was listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States from 1820 to 1842, attesting to its recognized medicinal importance.

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

Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Not recommended for long-term use or for pregnant or nursing women due to potential liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Use only for short-term treatment under professional guidance.

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.