What is Horny Goat Weed?
Horny Goat Weed or epimedium is a leafy plant with yellow, purple, red, and white flowers that grows wild in high altitudes throughout China, Japan, Korea, and parts of the Mediterranean. Other names that this plant goes by are Yin Yang Huo, and Chien Hsieh. The Horny Goat Weed has been used for over two thousand years as an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for its reported aphrodisiac properties.
Only the leaves of the Horny Goat Weed plant are used and they contain flavonoids, polysaccharides, sterols and magnaflorine, which are believed to be what make it effective. It remains a popular herb throughout China and is seeing an increase in popularity around the world.
Sexual Function
Horny Goat Weed has been used throughout Chinese history to increase libido and sexual desire in both men and women. According to Chinese folklore the aphrodisiac properties of the plant were discovered when a goat herder observed an increase in the sexual activity of his flock after they had been grazing on it.
Scientific studies on animals have shown that Horny Goat Weed may work by relaxing smooth muscle in the body and increasing blood flow to the penis or clitoris. It is believed that the plant can be beneficial for those suffering from impotence, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhea or involuntary ejaculation, and low sperm count. Supporters who believe in the power of Horny Goat Weed claim that it is a safe, natural, less expensive, alternative to popular medications, like Viagra or Cialis, that treat erectile dysfunction without many of the adverse affects that can come with those.
Menopause
In addition to its effects on sexual function, Horny Goat Weed is also believed to benefit women who are suffering from the many symptoms of menopause. In a study testing several different herbs that are commonly used for menopause relief, epimedium or Horny Goat Weed was found to have one of the highest estrogen- like activities.
Other Uses
Horny Goat Weed may have other effects as well. Some use the plant as a natural energy booster. Some studies indicate that Horny Goat Weed may increase osteoblastic activity in the bones, which would help prevent osteoporosis. Others have shown that the weed may help regulate cortisol, testosterone, and thyroid hormone levels in the body.
Although Horny Goat Weed has been around for many many years for it reported benefits and side effects, scientists are not able at this time to back up many of these claims. There has been success in a few animal studies, but not enough to give a clear picture of how this plant works in humans, and whether or not it really lives up to the hype.
Negative Side Effects
There is not a lot of documentation on the downside or negative effects of Horny Goat Weed. Studies on animals have shown a decrease in thyroid activity after taking the weed over an extended period of time. There have also been reports that Horny Goat Weed may cause rapid heart rate and blood pressure irregularities.