Horny Goat Weed Benefits for Men & Women

Horny Goat Weed benefits include its use for sexual dysfunction in both men and women.

The supplement is sourced from several species of Epimedium, plants native to China, Japan and Korea. It is known as yin yang huo in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

The main active ingredient of this plant is icariin, which has demonstrated in vitro (in the laboratory) PDE5 inhibitory properties similar to those of sildenafil (Viagra), which is a common ingredient in popular medications for erectile dysfunction.

In addition to its role as a PDE5 inhibitor, icariin found in Horny Goat Weed may also play a role in maintaining healthy bones: In animal studies, icariin has been observed to stimulate osteoblasts – cells that synthesize bone – in bone tissue. This effect may help reduce bone loss in postmenopausal women.

Some of Horny Goat Weed`s purported health benefits include its ability to support bone health. The supplement is also used for weak back and knees, joint pain, osteoarthritis, mental and physical fatigue and memory loss.

In addition, this supplement is sometimes used for high blood pressure, heart disease, bronchitis, liver disease, HIV/AIDS, polio, chronic leucopenia (a blood disorder) and viral infections of the heart.

Horny Goat Weed

Herbal Supplement

Libido

Erectile Function

Testo- sterone

How It Works:

• Inhibits PDE-5 enzyme & raises nitric oxide
• Boosts male & female libido
• Supports erectile function & performance

Dosage:

Between 250 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Horny Goat Weed Benefits

Horny Goat Weed supplements are often taken by men for erectile dysfunction (ED).

The 2008 laboratory study published in the Journal of Natural Products notes Epimedium appears to act as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. This observed action of Epimedium is similar to the drugs currently prescribed for ED, notably Viagara.

The study also suggests that horny goat weed may be more effective than prescribed medications and may lead to fewer side effects.

Epimedium has a long history of use in TCM, but scientific research is limited. There is not enough evidence to support any classical uses of Epimedium and many of the contemporary uses are rooted in TCM.

Horny Goat Weed Benefits in TCM

Horny goat weed is used as a yang tonic in TCM. It is a kidney tonic and is used to increase libido (interest in sex). In the practice of TCM, maintaining healthy kidney energy is essential for healthy aging.

Epimedium is also used to treat kidney yang deficiency, which includes impotence, infertility, urinary frequency, forgetfulness, social withdrawal, and painful or cold lower back and knees. It is used to dispel wind, cold, dampness and warms and unblocks the flow of yang qi. This herbal action is also thought to strengthen tendons and bones.

Yang refers to the heat and energetic qi (vital energy) of the body in TCM. One symptom of a kidney deficiency is a drop in energy in the afternoon, often around 3 PM.

Anxiety, panic attacks and fear are also signs of kidney deficiency according to this traditional medicine practice. This deficiency also presents as cold feet and hands, and general coldness of the body. Horny goat weed benefits are also used to treat spasms or cramps in the hands and feet, joint pain and numbness in the extremities.

Horny Goat Weed is used to treat hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body) and is often administered after zhongfeng (wind stroke). In TCM a stroke not only occurs in the brain: a stroke can affect the meridians (a path through which the life-energy flows) and various organs.

Horny Goat Weed for Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency is indicated by feeling cold, having diarrhea or loose stools in the morning, having an aversion to the cold, experiencing little thirst, having a lack of circulation and low blood pressure.

Individuals with yang deficiency may also catch colds easily, have a poor appetite and be unable to taste foods. They often have clear urine, clear phlegm from the sinuses or lungs and clear vaginal discharge.

Additionally, they may move slowly, not sweat, sleep excessively and have a white coat on the tongue. Symptoms also include a pale appearance with dark circles under the eyes, aches in joints and muscles, poor digestion, and depression.

Physically they may be emaciated or obese, have a general weakness, a soft low voice, pale wet lips and a faint body odor. Women with this deficiency may have pale or watery menstrual blood and associated backaches.

Within TCM, those with yang deficiency should avoid “cold” herbs, especially detoxification herbs, drinks, and food that are “cold” in nature or are served cold. Raw fruits and vegetables, juices, and iced beverages should also be avoided. The benefits of Horny Goat Weed can counteract this deficiency to restore health and vitality.

Horny Goat Weed Adverse Effects

Horny Goat Weed capsules should not be taken in high doses or for long periods. Within TCM, prolonged and excessive use of horny goat weed is thought to damage yin, leading to dizziness, vomiting, dry mouth and epistaxis (nosebleed). This supplement may also cause irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and upset stomach.

Horny goat weed may interact with a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications, including aspirin, blood thinners, oral contraceptives and antidepressants. It should be avoid if you are being treated for immune disorders and thyroid problems.

Additionally, horny goat weed should not be taken with medicines that lower blood pressure or cholesterol. This supplement has been observed to slow blood clotting and might increase the risk of bleeding.

It is not recommended for use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should also be avoided by those being treated for an estrogen-sensitive condition, such as breast or uterine cancer.

The benefits of Horny Goat Weed are purported to include better sexual function, improved bone health, increased Nitric Oxide production and improved circulation.

However, this supplement may not be appropriate for all individuals to take. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking horny goat weed for your health to ensure that the supplement is right for you.

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