Wild populations of the Afromontane forest tree Prunus africana (Rosaceae), known as the African Cherry or Red Stinkwood (sometimes called Pygeum africanum) are currently the sole source of bark and bark extract exported from Africa and Madagascar to Europe. This trade has taken place for nearly 30 years, for production of at least 19 different herbal preparations sold by 23 companies based primarily in Europe, but also in North and South America. These are used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), a common disease in older men. This account provides an interesting case-study of a medicinal species which is in transition from wild harvest to culti- vated sources of supply. It also illustrates the ‘eco- logical footprint’ of Europe on African forests, and upon a medicinal resource within them.

Type of Case
Printed publication (book, sourcebook, journal article…)

Publisher
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

Region
Africa

Biome
Tropical

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted)

Primary Designated Function
Multiple use