What is Epimedium?
Epimedium, otherwise called horny goat weed, is a class of blooming plants in the family Berberidaceae. There are more than 50 types of epimedium, the most well-known being Epimedium sagittatum. Epimedium is a conventional Chinese spice that has been utilized for a really long time to deal with conditions like erectile brokenness, low moxie, exhaustion, agony, from there, the sky is the limit.
What is Epimedium Used For?
The essential utilization of epimedium is as a sexual enhancer. It has procured the epithet "horny goat weed" because of the story that it was first found when a Chinese goat herder saw expanded sexual conduct in his rush after they consumed the weed.
Science has shown that epimedium extract contains a compound called icariin which goes about as a PDE5 inhibitor. This is like the manner in which Viagra works. Icariin increments nitric oxide creation, loosening up smooth muscle tissue and further developing blood stream to the penis. This makes epimedium a viable regular treatment for erectile brokenness.
In addition to boosting libido and sexual performance, epimedium has a number of other benefits:
Increases energy and reduces fatigue
Alleviates pain and joint discomfort
Reduces cortisol levels and relieves stress
Has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects
Improves bone and heart health
Enhances immune system function
The leaves and aerial parts of the epimedium plant contain a number of active compounds including flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids that provide these therapeutic effects.
What is the Use of Epimedium?
As discussed above, epimedium has several uses:
As an aphrodisiac to boost libido and treat erectile dysfunction
To increase energy levels and reduce fatigue
To relieve joint pain and arthritis symptoms
To lower cortisol and alleviate stress
For anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects
To strengthen bones and improve cardiovascular health
To stimulate the immune system
The dosing of epimedium depends on which effect you are trying to achieve. For sexual enhancement and energy boosting, doses of 200-500mg per day of a standardized extract are recommended. Higher doses from 500-1500mg may be used for pain relief, cortisol reduction, or immune stimulation.
Epimedium is commonly taken as a tea, tincture, extract, or supplement capsule. It can also be applied topically as an essential oil. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for dosage guidelines.
What is Epimedium Also Known As?
Epimedium has several common names besides horny goat weed, including:
Yin Yang Huo
Barrenwort
Bishop's Hat
Fairy Wings
Horny Goat Weed
Rowdy Lamb Herb
These common names mostly originate from the Chinese translations and the shape of the epimedium flowers which resemble bishop’s hats or fairy wings. The “horny goat weed” name as mentioned comes from the herb’s aphrodisiac effects.
Is Epimedium Safe for the Liver?
When used appropriately, epimedium is generally safe and well-tolerated. There is no evidence that it is toxic to the liver.
According to animal studies, epimedium may actually help protect the liver by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. The antioxidant compounds in epimedium can help prevent liver damage from toxins and free radicals.
For those already suffering from liver disease, more research is still needed to determine if epimedium is completely safe or could potentially cause complications. As with any herbal supplement, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before using epimedium if you have a history of liver issues.
When taken at recommended doses, epimedium does not seem to pose any risks to the liver in healthy individuals. As always, do not exceed dosage guidelines and discontinue use if any adverse effects occur.
Is Epimedium Good for the Prostate?
Preliminary research indicates that epimedium may benefit prostate health in several ways.
The icariin compounds found in horny goat weed may help inhibit prostate cell proliferation. Uncontrolled cell growth is one of the factors that contributes to prostate enlargement and prostate cancer. Icariin induces programmed cell death (apoptosis) in abnormal prostate cells.
Epimedium also exhibits anti-inflammatory activity which can help reduce swelling and inflammation of the prostate. Enlargement of the prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is often caused by inflammation and irritation.
Additionally, by improving blood circulation, epimedium can help relieve urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH such as frequent/urgent urination, trouble passing urine, and dribbling.
More studies are still needed, but current evidence suggests epimedium may potentially aid in the prevention and treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia and other prostate conditions. Always speak to your doctor before using herbal supplements for prostate health.
What is the Price of Epimedium?
The price of epimedium products can vary quite a bit. Loose, dried epimedium herb may cost around $10-20 for one ounce. Epimedium tea bags are usually priced in the range of $6-15 for 10-20 bags. Tinctures normally run from $15-30 for a one ounce bottle. Standardized extract capsules and powders will generally cost between $10-40 for 60-120 capsules or a one month supply.
Factors like the brand, strength of active compounds, and amount of product will impact the price. Chinese epimedium products tend to be cheaper than those from US supplement companies. Buying in bulk quantities can also sometimes lower the per unit price.
For the best value, look for epimedium extract supplements standardized to contain a guaranteed percentage of icariin like 8-15%. This helps ensure you get an effective therapeutic dose. As with any herbal product, always buy from a reputable source.
Is Epimedium an Anti-Inflammatory?
Yes, research shows that epimedium possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation throughout the body.
The main anti-inflammatory compounds found in epimedium are icariin, quercetin, and kaempferol. These flavonoids inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory agents like NF-kB and TNF-alpha.
By lowering levels of inflammatory cytokines, epimedium can help ease inflammatory conditions like arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, prostate inflammation, and more. The antioxidant effects of epimedium also aid its anti-inflammatory actions.
Epimedium’s anti-inflammatory benefits make it useful for both short-term inflammatory issues as well as chronic inflammatory disorders. More human studies are still needed, but the current science indicates epimedium can be a helpful botanical anti-inflammatory.
Frequently Asked Questions about Epimedium
Here are some common questions and answers about using epimedium:
How much epimedium should I take per day?
For sexual function, take 200-500mg once or twice daily. For other uses like pain relief or immune support, doses up to 1500mg may be needed. Follow manufacturer’s dosage recommendations.
What time of day is best to take epimedium?
Most experts recommend taking epimedium supplements early in the day with breakfast or lunch if using for energy and libido enhancement.
Are there any side effects or precautions?
Mild side effects like headache, dizziness, nausea, or rashes may occur in some users. Epimedium has potential interactions with medications for blood pressure, diabetes, and others. Check with your doctor before using epimedium if you have medical conditions or take prescription medicines. Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety research.
How long does it take for epimedium to work?
The effects of epimedium may be noticed within 1-2 hours but can take 2-3 days of regular use to fully kick in. Effects tend to build over several weeks of continuous supplementation.
Can I take epimedium long term?
Long term use for several months is considered safe in most healthy individuals provided proper dosing guidelines are followed. Periodic breaks from epimedium may be beneficial for some people. As with any herb, consult your healthcare provider before beginning long term use.
Is epimedium safe for women?
Yes, when used properly, epimedium appears to be safe for women. Some women use it for libido enhancement as well as relief from menopause symptoms. Speak with your OB-GYN before using epimedium if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any female reproductive health conditions.
What is the best epimedium supplement?
Look for epimedium capsules or powders standardized to contain 8-15% icariin content. Products made by reputable supplement companies like Planetary Herbals, Nature’s Way, Gaia Herbs, and Nuzena are good quality sources.
Conclusion
Epimedium is an herb that has been valued for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to boost vitality, libido, stamina, and more. With compounds like icariin that act as natural PDE5 inhibitors, epimedium can serve as an effective remedy for issues like erectile dysfunction and low sex drive.
Beyond its aphrodisiac effects, epimedium offers anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing benefits. It appears to be safe when used appropriately, with few side effects for most people. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning use of any herbal supplement.
Further research is still needed, but current evidence indicates epimedium can be a good addition to an overall wellness regimen for supporting energy, sexual health, pain relief, stress management, and other common health goals.
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.
Zeng, Z., Li, Y., Zhang, R., Fu, J., Chen, A., & Chen, W. (2019). Epimedium-Derived Phytoestrogen Exert Beneficial Effects on Preventing Steroid-Associated Osteonecrosis in Rabbits with Exogenous Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteonecrosis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019.
Chen, K. M., Lin, J. W., Li, C. C., Gad, S. C., & Wang, S. M. (2018). Evaluation of subacute toxicity of Epimedium grandiflorum extract in rats. Food and chemical toxicology, 111, 131-141.
Partin, J. F., & Pushkin, Y. R. (2004). Tachyarrhythmia and hypomania with horny goat weed. Psychosomatics, 45(6), 536-537.
Yin, X. X., Chen, Z. Q., Liu, Z. J., Ma, Q. J., & Dang, G. T. (2007). Icariine stimulates proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts by increasing production of bone morphogenetic protein 2. Chinese medical journal, 120(23), 204-210.
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