Horny Goat Weed
What is Horny Goat Weed?
Horny goat weed, also known as epimedium, is a flowering herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Its active ingredient is icariin. The extract is known to contain substances which help to increase the flow of blood and support healthy sexual functions.
Epimedium Benefits and Uses
Epimedium is a well-researched option for the improvement of sexual health. It is believed to stimulate the libido by boosting blood circulation, which is an important function of sexual desire[1]. Although it is not itself a hormone, epimedium benefits hormone function and supports healthy perimenopause and menopause[2].
Icariin is a flavonoid extracted from the horny goat weed plant. It supports blood flow and relaxes smooth muscle tissue by boosting levels of nitric oxide. It also supports joint strength and bone density[3]. Icariin also decreases the activity of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which causes anxiety disorders when overstimulated. This makes icariin useful for the support of healthy stress levels and balanced moods[4].
Epimedium Side Effects
Epimedium is considered safe when taken orally at the recommended dose for up to 6 months. More long-term use may cause symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, nosebleeds and excessive thirst[5].
You should not take epimedium if you are pregnant as it may affect the development of the fetus. Epimedium’s safety during breastfeeding is not known, so it should be avoided.
You should avoid epimedium if you have a bleeding disorder as it can slow down blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. You should also avoid epimedium if you are about to undergo surgery, for the same reason.
Epimedium should not be taken by anyone who has hormone-sensitive cancer (such as ovarian or breast cancer) or another hormone-sensitive condition.
An epimedium supplement should not be taken by anyone suffering from low blood pressure as it may decrease blood pressure further and increase the risk of fainting[6].
Epimedium Overdose
Taking higher than recommended doses of epimedium may cause difficulty breathing and muscle spasms. If you think you have taken too much Epimedium, stop taking the supplement straight away and contact your healthcare provider.
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[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17890032
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21215308
[3] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1359/jbmr.070405/full
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC181180/
[5] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-699-horny%20goat%20weed.aspx?activeingredientid=699&