COMMON USES & MECHANISM OF ACTION

Horny goat weed is employed to treat impotence, as well as to increase libido or sexual desire

This plant is also used to treat arthritis, as well as chronic pain in the lower body

Various related species are also used to treat rheumatism and high blood pressure in women with menopause

Evidence on the efficacy of this herbal supplement is lacking and therefore cannot be safely recommended to treat any of the above uses

Icariin is the active ingredient of the Epidemium species. It is a flavonol glycoside and has been demonstrated to exert inhibitory activity against phosphodiesterase type 5. PDE-5 inhibition increases levels of cyclic GMP, which enhances smooth muscle relaxation and blood flow to the penis and promotes erection.

Horny goat weed is most frequently found as capsules or tablets It can be found in its herbal form and as an extract as well

There are no clinical studies (on humans) of horny goat weed to provide a basis for dosage recommendations Tablets and capsules are typically sold in varying strengths of 250 to 500 mg standardized to Icariin content

Depending on the disease state there are discrepancies on how long until an effect is seen. For erectile dysfunction it is recommended taking a higher dose of around 1000 mg about 90 minutes before sexual activity.

Some types of horny goat weed are possibly unsafe for a long period of time or in high doses. Serious side effects including severe breathing problems have been reported after use.

SAFETY/WARNINGS/TOXICITY

Horny goat weed is possibly safe when used short-term

Pregnancy

Horny goat weed is possibly unsafe when taken during pregnancy. It might harm the developing fetus and its use should be avoided.

BREAST-FEEDING

There is little information on whether or not horny goat weed is safe to use when breast-feeding. Therefore, it is safer to avoid using it.

Hormone Sensitive Cancers

Horny goat weed acts like an estrogen and can worsen some estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as breast and uterine cancer.

Surgery

Horny goat weed may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery.

Bleeding Disorders

Horny goat weed might slow slow blood clotting which will increase the risk of bleeding. This could make bleeding disorders worse.