Horny Goat Weed, scientifically known as Epimedium, is an herb originally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While its name may sound unusual, its potential use in overall sexual wellness has triggered curiosity worldwide.
This herbal supplement, popularly called natural Viagra, has been used to treat various health issues, like postmenopausal symptoms, Erectile Dysfunction (ED), and joint pain. But what exactly is Horny Goat Weed, and how does it help in boosting sexual and overall health? In this article, we’ll explore its uses, benefits, and safety so you can understand whether it may be right for you.
What is Horny Goat Weed?
Horny Goat Weed is a plant typically recognized for its aphrodisiac (stimulating sexual desire) properties. This herb contains over 200 bioactive compounds, with Icariin being the most studied. Icariin supports blood vessel dilation, enhances circulation, and affects hormone regulation.
Although there is little strong scientific research to back up its effectiveness, Horny Goat Weed has been used for centuries to support energy, vitality, and sexual health, including conditions like Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
Nowadays, Horny Goat Weed is commonly used as a health supplement. Extracts from the stems and leaves are formulated into a variety of forms, such as liquid extracts, capsules, powder, and tablets. You can choose whichever best suits your body.
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Working of Horny Goat Weed
Icariin is the active compound in Horny Goat Weed, and it supports the body in many ways. First, it helps with erectile function by blocking the PDE-5 enzyme. This enzyme limits blood flow by breaking down cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) molecules. When Icariin blocks it, cGMP levels increase, blood vessels relax, and circulation to the penis is enhanced, making erections firmer.
It also boosts Nitric Oxide (NO) in the body, which improves blood and oxygen delivery. This gives extra support to energy and overall blood flow in the penis.
Additionally, Icariin shows phytoestrogenic activity. It helps regulate estrogen and progesterone levels in women. This ingredient further lowers hormones that tend to rise during hormonal imbalances, such as Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
Common uses of Horny Goat Weed
As a popular natural supplement, both men and women prefer Horny Goat Weed for different uses, such as treating sexual issues like low libido or menopausal symptoms. Let’s have a look at its applications to understand its versatile uses better.
For men
For men, this natural Viagra offers effective natural support for hormone balance, sexual health, and stamina. Let’s have a look at its uses in detail:
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Horny Goat Weed is primarily used for its effectiveness in enhancing erectile function by enhancing blood flow. It mimics the functioning of some modern medicines for ED, such as Viagra, by inhibiting PDE-5 and widening blood vessels.
- Treating low libido: Horny Goat Weed can improve sexual stamina, desire, and health. This can help with the low libido treatment.
- Testosterone support: According to research published by Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology in 2019, Icariin promoted testosterone secretion in male mice. While research on humans is limited, these studies suggest a possibility that Horny Goat Weed has the potential to maintain a healthy testosterone level in men. This can further enhance energy and muscle strength.
For women
Women often turn to Horny Goat Weed for its popular benefits, mainly including bone health related to Menopause, hormonal balance, and overall vitality. Let’s read about these key uses:
- Bone health: It is claimed to promote stronger bones and better density. This makes it particularly beneficial for women facing an increased risk of osteoporosis after Menopause.
- Relief from menopausal symptoms: Its phytoestrogenic properties can promote hormonal balance, relieving menopausal symptoms like mood swings and hot flashes.
- Enhanced vitality and energy: It is also used as a natural tonic to deal with fatigue and improve overall well-being.
Also Read: For the complete understanding of how women can benefit from Horny Goat Weed, read Benefits of Horny Goat Weed for Women You Didn’t Know
How to take Horny Goat Weed
Horny Goat Weed comes in various forms, each taken differently based on manufacturer’s instructions and individual needs. While some sources consider up to 1000 mg daily safe, no universal dosage exists. Consulting a doctor for dose adjustments is recommended. Common dosing methods include:
- Tablets and capsules: These are the most convenient and standard forms. They are regulated to include a specific amount of Icariin. 1-2 capsules a day is generally suggested. For best results, take it about 90 minutes before sexual activity.
- Liquid extracts: This form enables faster absorption and flexible dosing. It is taken orally using a dropper, and the dose can be adjusted as per the body’s response.
- Tea: This traditional, mild form has a soothing effect. It involves soaking dried leaves in hot water. Drinking 1-2 cups a day is generally considered safe.
- Gummies: Gummies are a flavoursome alternative for individuals who prefer chewable supplements over tablets. 1-2 gummies a day is considered a safe intake.
Potential side effects of Horny Goat Weed
Horny Goat Weed is often considered a well-tolerated herbal supplement when taken in mild to moderate doses. However, it can cause some side effects, particularly with high doses or long-term use, such as:
- Nosebleeds
- Increased risk of bleeding
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
Precautions
Considering the common side effects of the supplement, some crucial points must be kept in mind when using Horny Goat Weed.
- Discontinue the medication 2 weeks before any surgical procedure to lower the risk of excessive bleeding.
- Use with caution in case you have Hypotension or any other heart conditions.
- Avoid or use with caution if you are sensitive to plants belonging to the Berberidaceae family.
- Avoid use during breastfeeding and pregnancy, as its safety is not clinically established during these stages, and it might harm the fetus.
- Strictly avoid if you have bleeding disorders. Horny Goat Weed can elevate bleeding risk or slow the blood clotting process.
- The active compound of Horny Goat Weed acts as an estrogen, so avoid it if you have hormone-sensitive conditions.
Conclusion
Horny Goat Weed, widely called Epimedium, has long been valued in Chinese medicine. Today, it’s gaining recognition as a natural supplement for enhancing sexual health, vitality, and stamina in both women and men.
It is often used to address low libido or ED in men and menopausal symptoms in women through its active compound, Icariin. This compound core function is to improve circulation and balance hormones. While many people turn to it as a herbal remedy, research on its effectiveness is still limited. For convenient use, it is available in various forms, including tea, gummies, and capsules.
Although this herbal weed is sold over the counter (OTC), you should consult a doctor to avoid side effects such as dry mouth or irregular heartbeat. Extra care should be taken if you have any underlying diseases. Taking these precautions helps you safely use this supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Epimedium help with bone health?
Yes, Epimedium can help with bone health in both men and women. This supplement enhances bone mineral density and enables bone formation. Few studies have reported that it can decrease bone loss and increase activity in bone-forming cells.
Is Epimedium safe for the liver?
Yes, Epimedium is usually considered safe for the liver. Case reports suggest that it does not show toxicity to the liver. Also, proven damage is not well-documented. However, due to limited scientific research, individuals with existing liver issues should be cautious and consult a doctor.
What does Epimedium taste like?
Epimedium, popularly called Horny Goat Weed, has a sweet and pungent taste with a warming effect. Moreover, some sources report that it can have a bitter taste, particularly in its powdered form.
What are the benefits of Epimedium shower gel?
Epimedium shower gel offers various benefits, particularly for men. It helps in deep cleansing by removing impurities and sweat from the skin, enabling hydration. Some formulations focus on odor removal. It can also promote a refreshing feeling after use.
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