What is Epimedium and How Does it Work?
Epimedium, also known as horny goat weed, is a genus of flowering plants native to Asia. The leaves are used medicinally to make extracts and powders for natural health remedies.
The main bioactive compound in epimedium responsible for its effects is icariin. Icariin is a prenylated flavonol that acts as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE5 inhibitor). This means it blocks the PDE5 enzyme, increasing levels of nitric oxide and cGMP. This enhances blood flow and vasodilation.
By acting as a natural PDE5 inhibitor, epimedium primarily works as an aphrodisiac agent. It relaxes smooth muscle tissue and improves circulation to the penis, helping treat erectile dysfunction.
Beyond sexual enhancement, icariin and other compounds in epimedium provide additional benefits:
Reduces inflammation
Decreases cortisol
Raises energy and mood
Lowers blood pressure
Stimulates bone formation
Exhibits antioxidant effects
The combined mechanisms make epimedium popular for increasing vitality, alleviating pain, improving heart health, protecting the brain, and more.
What are Dosages for Epimedium?
General dosing recommendations for epimedium supplements are:
Dried Herb (Tea): 3-15 grams per day
Liquid Extract: 1-2 mL (30-60 drops), 2-3 times daily
Powdered Extract: 250-1000 mg per day
Standardized Extract: 100-300 mg extract containing 8-15% icariin, 1-2 times daily
Higher doses may be used for specific therapeutic purposes:
Sexual enhancement: 1000-1500 mg standardized extract per day
Joint/bone health: 1000-2000 mg dried herb or powdered extract per day
Immune stimulation: 1500-3000 mg dried herb or powdered extract per day
Always start low and gradually increase dosage to assess tolerance. Never exceed recommended amounts.
What are Side Effects Associated with Using Epimedium?
When used properly, epimedium extract does not commonly cause side effects. However, some people may experience:
Headaches, dizziness
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Rashes, itching
Irregular heartbeat
Anxiety, restlessness
Higher doses increase risk of side effects. Discontinue use if any worrisome reactions develop.
Epimedium may interact with medications for blood pressure, diabetes, hormones, sedatives, and others. Those taking any prescription drugs should consult their physician before using epimedium.
What Other Drugs Interact with Epimedium?
Some medications that may potentially interact with epimedium extract powder include:
Anticoagulants/blood thinners - May increase bleeding risk
Antihypertensives - May further lower blood pressure
Oral hypoglycemics - May increase risk of low blood sugar
Estrogen therapies - May compound hormonal effects
Immunosuppressants - May counteract immunosuppression
Sedatives/tranquilizers - May increase drowsiness
Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbs or supplements you take along with prescription medications to monitor for interactions. Avoid epimedium at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgeries.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of what epimedium is and safety considerations, let’s take a detailed look at how to optimize your personal dosage.
Key Compounds and Effects of Epimedium
As previously mentioned, the key medicinal compound in epimedium is icariin. Standardized epimedium extracts are typically concentrated to contain 8-15% icariin.
Icariin works as a natural phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. By preventing the breakdown of cGMP, icariin facilitates vasodilation and increased blood flow. This is beneficial for erectile dysfunction.
Additionally, icariin and other compounds in epimedium provide anti-inflammatory, hormonal, and immune regulating effects. The flavonoids, polysaccharides, sterols and alkaloids in epimedium all contribute therapeutic actions.
Understanding the mechanisms and compounds helps guide appropriate dosing to achieve desired benefits while minimizing side effects.
Dosage Recommendations for Epimedium
Most clinical studies providing specific dosing guidelines use doses of epimedium extracts containing 60-90mg of icariin per day. This corresponds to roughly 500-750mg of a standardized extract daily.
My general dosage recommendations for epimedium extract supplements are:
Mild effects: 100-300mg standardized extract per day
Moderate effects: 300-600mg per day
Strong effects: 600-1500mg per day
Start with 100mg dose and increase by 100mg every 2-3 days until desired benefits are reached. Doses up to 1500mg may be used short term under medical supervision.
For the dried herb, use 1-3 grams per day in tea or capsules. Adjust according to potency of the preparation. Always follow label directions.
Factors that Influence Epimedium Dosage
Several factors affect appropriate epimedium dosage on an individual basis:
Tolerance - Some have higher natural tolerance to herbs and can use higher doses with less chance of adverse effects. Start low to be safe.
Purpose of Use - Those seeking strong effects for erectile dysfunction or pain relief will need higher doses than for mild libido enhancement or immune support.
** Duration of Use** - Higher doses may be tolerated for short term use (1-2 months). Long term use often requires lower doses for safety.
Medications - Concurrent drugs may raise risk of interactions at higher epimedium doses. Use caution.
Health Status - Those with pre-existing health conditions need to be more conservative with epimedium dosage.
Age - As we age, we become more sensitive to most herbal medicines. Older adults should start at the lowest doses.
The best approach is to be patient and gradually increase epimedium dosage over several weeks while carefully observing effects and potential side effects. Allow your body's response to guide you to the optimal dose according to your individual needs and circumstances.
Should You Take Epimedium Daily or Cycle?
For most purposes, epimedium extracts are thought to be safe for long term daily use when taken at recommended dosages. No toxicity or serious adverse effects have been reported in clinical trials lasting up to 24 weeks of continued use.
However, some experts advise taking periodic breaks from epimedium every few months to prevent building up too high levels of icariin. This helps maintain balance and sensitivity.
A typical cycle would be 8-12 weeks on epimedium followed by a 2-4 week break before starting again. Just be sure to taper your dosage down before discontinuing rather than stopping abruptly.
As with any herbal supplement routine, it’s a wise idea to check in with your healthcare provider periodically while taking epimedium daily for an extended period of time. Monitor for any changes and adjust your dosage appropriately.
Combining Epimedium with Other Herbs and Supplements
Epimedium is sometimes used in combination with other traditional Chinese herbs for a synergistic effect:
He Shou Wu - Also used as an aphrodisiac and longevity tonic. May enhance libido boosting effects.
Dong Quai - A female tonic herb that complements epimedium’s effects on female hormonal health.
Ginseng - An adaptogenic herb that works synergistically with epimedium to increase energy and vitality.
Tribulus - Often paired with epimedium to further augment sexual enhancement effects in men and women.
Mucuna - The L-Dopa content interacts with epimedium to improve mood, motivation, and focus.
Cordyceps - Used with epimedium to amplify immune boosting effects and athletic performance.
If combining epimedium with other herbal supplements, consult a knowledgeable herbalist or TCM practitioner for guidance on proper formulation and dosing
FAQ about Epimedium Dosage:
Q: Is it safe to take epimedium daily?
A: Daily use is generally safe when following recommended dosages. Periodic breaks every few months are advised.
Q: What time of day should I take epimedium?
A: Most prefer to take it in the morning with breakfast. Coordinate timing with food and other supplements or medications.
Q: How long until I see benefits from epimedium?
A: Some effects may be noticed within the first couple weeks. Max benefits are usually achieved after 2 months of consistent use.
Q: Can I take epimedium if I’m on prescription medications?
A: Consult your doctor first. Epimedium may interact with some common medications. Medical supervision is recommended.
Q: Is epimedium safe for older adults to use?
A: It can be safely used by most older adults but lower doses should be started at first. Use care and monitor health closely.
Q: Are there side effects or symptoms I should watch out for?
A: Discontinue use if you experience headaches, heart palpitations, dizziness, stomach upset, or skin irritation.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking epimedium?
A: Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it can amplify side effects. Mild consumption with a meal is likely fine for most people.
Q: How can I enhance the absorption and bioavailability of epimedium?
A: Take it with food that contains healthy fats or oils. Adding black pepper can also increase absorption.
The Bottom Line on Epimedium Dosage
Finding your optimal epimedium dosage requires carefully evaluating your individual health status, desired effects, and risk factors. Start low with an evidence-based dosage. Slowly titrate up while assessing results and any side effects.
Work closely with an experienced herbalist or natural medicine doctor to fine tune your personal epimedium regimen. Allow 4-6 weeks to determine appropriate long term dosage according to the benefits and reactions you experience.
As with any herbal supplement, it’s always a good idea to take periodic breaks from epimedium rather than staying on it indefinitely. Adjust dosage down if switching to daily, long term use. Follow basic precautions and enjoy epimedium safely!
References:
Shindel, A.W., Xin, Z.C., Lin, G., Fandel, T.M., Huang, Y.C., Banie, L., ... & Lue, T.F. (2010). Erectogenic and neurotrophic effects of icariin, a purified extract of horny goat weed (Epimedium spp.) in vitro and in vivo. The journal of sexual medicine, 7(4pt1), 1518-1528.
Zhang, Z. B., & Yang, Q. T. (2006). The testosterone mimetic properties of icariin. Asian journal of andrology, 8(5), 601-605.
Chen, K. M., & Chiu, J. H. (2008). Effect of epimedium brevicornum maxim extract on elicitation of penile erection in the rat. Urology, 71(2), 301-305.
Partin, J. F., & Pushkin, Y. R. (2004). Tachyarrhythmia and hypomania with horny goat weed. Psychosomatics, 45(6), 536-537.
Liang, L., Xue, Y., Chen, M., Zhang, Q., Huang, J., Chen, J., ... & Lai, X. (2018). Icariin reverses corticosterone-induced depression-like behavior, decrease in hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and metabolic network disturbances revealed by NMR-based metabonomics in rats. Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis, 152, 194-201.
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