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Icariin reviews shared by users online primarily discuss the effects of this supplement for male sexual health, testosterone levels, libido and bodybuilding.
Icariin is the bioactive constituent of plants from the Epimediumgenus. These plants are also known as horny goat weed, yin yang huo and barrenwort.
This supplement has been used within traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat sexual dysfunction and promote general health.
Epimedium extracts, including icariin, are now used for a number of indications, based on this long history of traditional use. Clinical evidence relating to the uses and effects of horny goat weed and icariin are limited.
However, there is significant anecdotal evidence from icariin user reviews that demonstrates effectiveness for sexual and athletic performance, erectile function and aphrodisiac qualities.
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Top Horny Goat Weed* ❯Icariin Review
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Icariin is a type of flavonoid, specifically a prenylated flavonoid. Flavonoids are known antioxidants.
In the case of icariin, it is also thought to be an “adaptogen”, a compound that helps the body better cope with stress. Adaptogen supplementation is purported to help combat the effects of stress and impede the effects of aging.
Icariin has been observed to exhibit characteristics that may help protect neurological function. In vitro studies indicate icariin protects individual neurons from inflammatory damage. Additionally, icariin has been observed to elevate glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels in rats.
Preliminary data from animal and laboratory studies indicate icariin exhibits effects that may prove useful for osteoporosis, coronary artery disease, erectile dysfunction and much more. In particular, icariin has been observed to exhibit antioxidant, cardioprotective (heart protecting), hormone and hepatoprotective (liver protecting) effects.
When used in appropriate doses, Epimedium supplements are generally well tolerated. Mild gastrointestinal side effects may occur. However, serious side effects may occur if Epimedium is used in excessive quantities for prolonged periods.
Icariin Review for Erectile Dysfunction
Epimedium extracts have long been associated with improving symptoms of erectile dysfunction. These symptoms include premature ejaculation, low sex drive and impotence.
Icariin has been observed to act as a PDE5 inhibitor, similar to popular erectile dysfunction medications currently on the market. PDE5 can work to prevent blood from entering the penis, thus preventing an erection. PDE5 inhibitors prevent this action and can help men achieve erections.
In one study, erections in castrated rats significantly increased with icariin administration between one and five mg/kg bodyweight. Small increases in testosterone were also noted.
Further, icariin supplementation was observed to help re-establish baseline testosterone levels in mice that sustained penile injuries. This observation was made when doses of 1 mg/kg body weight were administered. Interestingly, five mg/kg and ten mg/kg bodyweight doses were found to be ineffective.
Reviews of Icariin posted online show that this supplement is commonly used to address ED and male sexual performance. According to user reviews, this supplement does work to improve libido, stamina and erectile function. However, it may not work for all individuals.
Icariin and Testosterone Levels
Icariin is also popular among bodybuilders to improve energy and stamina for working out. It is also purported to promote muscle growth, according to some user reviews. This may be mediated by an increase in testosterone in some cases.
Icariin has been observed to triple testosterone levels in chemically castrated rats. These observations were based on icariin doses of 80 mg/kg body weight.
In the same experiment, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were unaffected.
These results suggest icariin’s mechanisms of action may take place inside the testicles. Icariin’s capacity to increase testosterone levels in human subjects remains unverified.
Horny goat weed has also been traditionally used to treat low libido and other forms of sexual dysfunction. Scientific reviews of icariin indicate it may help increase testosterone levels in males but not females.
Two other substances in Epimedium, icaritin and dimethylicaritin, have been observed to modulate estrogen function in females. Yin yang huo is thought to act as an aphrodisiac in both sexes.
Benefits for Bone Health
In vitro studies suggest icariin dosages of 60 mg per day (for a period of up to two years) can help support bone health and work to prevent osteoporosis and other conditions related to bone degradation. The decline of bone density has been significantly reduced via icariin administration.
Icaritin and dimethylicaritin are molecular derivatives of icariin. Both have been observed to induce estrogenic activities in some breast cancer cell lines. In vitro tests indicate uterine weights of immature mice increased during icariin supplementation. Also, estrus duration was increased in mice that had reached maturity.
These observations based on in vitro animal tests encouraged further research. A follow-up study indicated that horny goat weed may help increase estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. Icaritin, not icariin, is likely the compound responsible for these observed estrogenic effects.
Negative Icariin Effects
Icariin reviews are generally positive with a low rate of occurrence for side effects when this product is used properly. To ensure safe use, it is important to take it at appropriate dosages and not to combine it with potentially interacting medications.
Epimedium supplements may be safe when used appropriately for up to 24 months. In cases of parenteral (injected) administration, use should be limited to six months. When doses are appropriate, only mild and temporary gastrointestinal side effects have been reported.
Excessive or prolonged icariin supplementation may lead to serious side effects. Icariin use is often cycled and should only be continued if necessary. Cardiac, hematologic, neurologic and hormonal side effects are possible. Be sure to speak with your doctor before beginning supplementation to establish a safe dosage plan.
Pregnant and/or breastfeeding women should not use icariin until more clinical evidence is available concerning its effects on fetal development and lactation.
Icariin reviews indicate the supplement should not be mixed with certain types of prescription medications. Speak to your doctor before using icariin with antihypertensive, anti-platelet, anticoagulant, estrogen and/or QT-interval-prolonging drugs.
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Article last updated on: April 1st, 2018 by Nootriment