Identifying the best horny goat weed supplement can be a challenge. Horny goat weed is an herbal supplement that has a long history in many traditional Asian medical systems.
In the United States the supplement is primarily used for sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction, but there is little scientific evidence to support this purpose.
It is also a favorite of athletes who demand improved gains in muscle strength, size and healing ability.
Horny Goat Weed is a common name for a number of plants from the Epimedium genus, including Epimedium brevicornum, Epimedium grandiflorum and Epimedium koreanum, to name a few. It is also known by its common Chinese name, Yin Yang Huo. There are currently 64 known species of Epimedium.
These plants have been used for many centuries in China, Korea, Japan and other Asian countries as general yang elixirs – energizing tonics used primarily to enhance kidney functioning.
In Asian medical traditions herbs are rarely used independently and are usually one of many ingredients in a larger tonic. Consequently, it is unclear what role horny goat weed can play independently in the body.



- Inhibits PDE-5 enzyme & raises nitric oxide
- Boosts male & female libido
- Supports erectile function & performance
Benefits of Horny Goat Weed Supplementation
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Horny Goat Weed contains a number of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) that are thought to play a role in some of the plant’s ascribed health benefits.
For instance, the weed contains phytonutrients that are known precursors to nitric oxide, a compound which induces vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels).
Because of its hypothesized use as a vasodilator, horny goat weed extract is a favorite supplement among various types of athletes, but there is still insufficient scientific evidence to support this use.
Horny Goat Weed also contains many flavonoids, some of which have illustrated impacts on hormone levels in the body, which may be why the plant has used to treat sexual disorders.
Although the weed is commonly associated with erectile dysfunction, no human studies have been conducted to illustrate the efficacy of horny goat weed to treat this condition.
Horny Goat Weed supplements may support bone health. A flavonoid, icariin, contained in the weed was observed to stimulate the development of osteoblasts – cells that build bones. Horny Goat Weed is now being examined for its possible role in strengthening bones and may be found to play a role in the treatment of osteoporosis and general joint pains.
How Horny Goat Weed Works in the Body
The flavonoid icariin is now largely responsible for Epimedium’s long list of likely health benefits. Icariin has been clinically classified as the only know all-natural PDE5 inhibitor.
PDE5 is a substance that acts in the penis to prohibit the flooding of erectile tissue, thus diminishing or eliminating the probability of achieving strong erections. Icariin inhibits the action of PDE5, allowing the corpus cavernosum of the penis to flood with blood, accommodating erection development.
Icariin is also proven to induce increased synthesis of nitric oxide, a strong vasodilator. Vasodilation occurs throughout the body and is marked by the diametrical expansion of the endothelium.
As the endothelium lines the inside of blood vessels, it relaxation accommodates more blood displacement. Vessels are opened and more blood is delivered, thus increasing the flow of nutrients throughout the body.
Icariin’s ability to encourage vasodilation and blood flow and inhibit PDE5 may cause Horny Goat Weed to become a proven natural treatment for erectile dysfunction, but further research is still needed to prove its efficacy and safety.
Choosing the Best Horny Goat Weed Supplement
Because of the international popularity of Epimediums as dietary supplements, there are many knock-offs and inferior products available on the market.
Choosing the best horny goat weed supplement can be simple if you keep a few rules in mind.
First, choose a supplement made from organically grown plants, with the official credentials to prove it.
Second, look for the concentration of icariin available in the supplement. As icariin is the active constituent in Horny Goat Weed pills that is thought to generate its various health benefits, higher concentrations of icariin may be desired.
Yin Yang Huo supplements range in icariin concentration from very low amounts up to as much as 60 percent. You should base your pricing expectations on the icariin concentration – higher icariin concentration generally implies a higher price tag.
Horny Goat Weed Extract Safety
Horny Goat Supplements are generally well tolerated. However, because of its propensity to bring about lasting vasodilation, certain individuals should refrain from using even the best horny goat weed supplements.
Always consult with your doctor before beginning horny goat weed supplementation to make sure it is right for you and to reduce the risk of drug interactions.
Article last updated on: May 10th, 2018 by Nootriment