21 Sep Horny Goat Weed for Men and Women
Epimedium, barrenwort, bishop’s hat, and fairy wings.
No, they’re not ingredients for a magic potion; they’re all the same name for the Traditional Chinese Medicine Yin Yang Huo, or Horny Goat Weed as it’s often referred to.
For those unfamiliar with the plant, the name may inspire the imagination or elicit a snicker.
The flowering Epimedium plant is actually part of the (non-magical) Berberidaceae (or barberry) plant family. Native to China, small clusters of Asia, and the Mediterranean the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments for over 2,000 years. If the name didn’t give it away, the plant is most well-known for its positive effects on the libido.
Why is it Called Horny Goat Weed?
According to legend, a goat herder noticed that his group of goats would, out of nowhere, become extremely sexually aroused. After some astute observation the herder discovered that the sudden behavior only occurred after his animals ate bunches of flowering plants located only in certain areas of the meadow.
There’s a reason they call it “horny” goat weed.
Since then the plants have earned their name, as well as a reputation for helping other animals (i.e. us) in a similar manner.
What is Horny Goat Weed?
Used for more than two millennia in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Horny Goat Weed is the name given to over 20 leafy flowering plants that belongs to the Berberidaceae family of flowering plants. It’s widely believed to stimulate hormones in the body that improve arousal and sexual function.
The main active ingredient in horny goat weed is icariin, a natural chemical compound found only from these species of plant. Icariin is one of the main compounds responsible for the health benefits that have been reported.
It should be noted that extensive research, controlled studies, and testing for horny goat weed are lacking. Without this testing and controlled clinical trials, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support the anecdotal evidence of benefits. That being said, the lack of evidence doesn’t discount the possible benefits. Horny goat weed is safe for consumption and sold over-the-counter in stores.
The only way to know if it’s right for you is to try it. We’ve learned what horny goat weed is, but what does horny goat weed do?
The Effects of Horny Goat Weed
Icariin, the active ingredient in horny goat weed, has many different functions and benefits, especially regarding blood flow, blood vessels, and the heart.
Horny goat weed also contains phytoestrogens, a chemical compound that comes from a variety plants, which has been suggested to promote hormonal and bone health.
Those that have taken horny goat weed, and attest to its benefits, have reported improvements in:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low libido levels
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Joint pain
- Bronchitis
Horny goat weed has also been reported to improve memory and mental sharpness, as well as improve circulation and reduce blood clots.
Horny Goat Weed for Men
Horny goat weed is probably most well known as a natural erectile dysfunction supplement.
During sexual arousal, nitric oxide (found in many foods) send signals to the penis that encourage the muscles to relax and allow more blood to flow into it, leading to an erection.
An enzyme called protein phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) interferes with this process, preventing blood from flowing properly and creating an erection.
The body generally suppress the production of PDE5, but men with erectile dysfunction can’t suppress it enough on their own.
Icariin, the active ingredient that we learned about prior, prevents PDE5 from constricting blood flow. Icariin allows blood to flow properly into the penis so an erection can be created. The popular ED medication Viagra works in a similar way.
In fact, many people refer to horny goat weed as natural Viagra because of the similar effects it can have on erectile dysfunction. A study published about the effects of horny goat weed on PDE5 further support these claims.
Horny Goat Weed for Women
Horny goat weed doesn’t just help the penis. It can boost sexual activity and function for women, as well as offer a broad range of physical and mental benefits.
In addition to icariin, horny goat weed contains natural chemical compounds called phytoestrogens. These compounds mimic natural estrogen found in the body, and have been shown to benefit those suffering from symptoms and conditions caused by estrogen deficiency.
Dropping estrogen levels can affect mood, energy, and can cause a myriad of hormonal issues. Due to their nature, phytoestrogens may be particularly beneficial to premenopausal and postmenopausal people, as well as those suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
Hormonal issues such as acne, and even breast cancer, have been suggested to benefit from the addition of phytoestrogens found in horny goat weed.
More research needs to be done however, so discuss it with your doctor if you’re considering horny goat weed for yourself.
How Horny Goat Weed works for Men and Women
Improves Libido
Regardless of gender, horny goat weed has been shown to improve sexual drive, and function of the sex organs. Due to these reported claims, horny goat weed is seen by many as a natural aphrodisiac.
Supports Blood Flow
Icariin encourages better blood flow in the body, most notably to the sex organs. This increased blood flow plays a vital role in sexual function and arousal. Icariin also has cardioprotective properties that suggest it can help maintain good cardiovascular health.
Encourages Hormonal Balance
Phytoestrogens and icariin are powerful tools to aid in hormonal balance, regardless of gender. Icariin has similar properties to testorone and may actually increase testosterone levels in males, and phytoestrogens have already been mentioned to support a wide range of estrogen-related issues.
Reduces Stress
The general benefits of horny goat weed can also include reduced stress levels. Clinical trials with mice have found that administering them the herb can reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is the stress hormone that can also lower your sex drive if the levels are too high.
This is in addition to the other cognitive benefits such as mental sharpness and clarity, and improved concentration.
Enhances Testosterone
Testosterone is considered to be the primary sex hormone in men. It has libido-boosting effects for both men and women. Human studies are limited, and more research needs to be done, but there’s a study that linked increased levels of testosterone due to horny goat weed.
Side Effects of Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed for men and women is safe for human consumption, assuming it’s taken properly at the proper dosage. According to the National Institute of Health, taking extremely high doses could be toxic for your liver and kidneys; like everything, moderation is key.
Horny goat weed is not appropriate for all medical conditions, and may actually be harmful to certain individuals.
It can cause complications for:
- Breastfeeding or pregnant women
- People with low blood pressure or heart issues
- Women with hormone-sensitive conditions
- People with bleeding disorders
Always Consult a Medical Professional
Horny goat weed has a lot of beneficial effects associated with it, so you may be interested in adding it to your own diet.
If you choose to use horny goat weed, look for products with clear labels that show the ingredients and proper nutritional information. Also be sure that the bottle is securely sealed, and that you buy it from a reputable store.
If you have any prior medical conditions (or even if you don’t), consider speaking with your doctor or another medical professional before consuming any horny goat weed. They can help figure out the best dose, and may even have suggestions for ingestion method (capsules, powders, teas, etc.).
Horny goat weed is more than just a clever name, and it may be just what you need to improve your life; both medically, and in the bedroom.