Used to enhance the libido, increase energy & fights erectile dysfunction.
Horny Goat Weed: An Herb For Sexual Health
Updated May. 28th, 2024 | Read Time: 2 Minutes | What You Will Learn:
- Key Constituents in Horny Goat Weed
- Other Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed
- Horny Goat Weed Supplement Varieties
- Key Thoughts To Consider
- Nutritional Information
- Reader Comments (2)
Horny goat weed (HGW) has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a way to increase both male and female libido, while also improving erectile function in men. Icariin is said to be the active constituent in the epimedium species, responsible for its action in terms of alleviating erectile dysfunction, specifically.
Key Constituents in Horny Goat Weed
Icariin has been shown to restore the expression of Nitrogen Oxide Synthase in erectile dysfunction of arteriogenic causes. Endothelial Nitrogen oxide synthase (eNOS) supports the production of nitrogen oxide from L-Arginine and has the specific function of controlling vascular tone. By improving vascular tone to the penile corpus cavernosum, improved circulation/blood flow to the area is achieved, creating a stronger erection. Some studies have indicated that this herb may be as effective as many erectile dysfunction medications, without the risk of side effects.
Other Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed
Although much less commonly known and supported for its other uses, HGW has also been researched for use in the following conditions:
- Weak back and knees /joint pain
- Osteoporosis
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Memory loss
Horny Goat Weed Supplement Varieties
It is available in capsule, liquid tincture form, and tea, as well as in combination supplements for both men and women, aimed at improving libido and sexual dysfunction. In supplement form, HGW is often combined with Maca as an overall sexual tonic. There is currently no known therapeutic dosage. Typical dosages range anywhere from 120-500 mg/capsule and usually contain a standardized Icariin content.
Key Thoughts To Consider
Talk to your healthcare professional before using this herb if you are currently taking medication for high blood pressure, or to slow blood clotting (anticoagulants), as Horny goat weed can have an additive effect with these medications. This herb is not recommended during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
If I could rename horny goat weed, I would name it GOAT plant: I have a friend who reaped LOTs of benefits from it, namely improved memory and focus, reductions in blood pressure and, yes, improved libido. While GOAT may be a bit of an exaggeration & these effects could be due to placebo (this is a particularly gullible friend, not to be offensive) you are correct that horny goat weed is much less known for the non-libido benefits that it has and I think that it would be great for these benefits to be more well-known!
Hello Rachel,
Indeed, a lot of nutrients and herbs are known for one popular health advantage, but the other advantages are often overlooked. That is generally the case with Horny Goat Weed. This herb offer many benefits and we're glad you could learn about them here and that your friend is enjoying their benefits. You can find more libido boosting nutrients like Maca, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxkItIceLMA