Epimedium Aerial Parts Extract
Also known as: Epimedium, Epimedium sagittatum, Epimedium grandiflorum, Horny Goat Weed, Barrenwort, Yin Yang Huo
Overview
Epimedium, commonly known as Horny Goat Weed, is a genus of flowering plants used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The aerial parts of the plant are extracted for their medicinal properties. Key bioactive compounds include flavonoids like icariin, icaritin, and epimedins, along with lignans and alkaloids. It is primarily used for its purported aphrodisiac effects, as well as for treating osteoporosis, improving bone health, and enhancing erectile function. Research maturity is moderate to advanced, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses available. Evidence comes from human studies, animal models, and in vitro experiments, though study quality and consistency vary. Epimedium extracts are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquid extracts, often standardized to specific icariin percentages.
Benefits
Epimedium total flavonoids (EF) can improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of osteoporotic fractures. Meta-analyses show significant improvements in bone mineral density compared to control groups (mean difference of 0.43 g/cm², 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.65, p < 0.001). EF regulates bone metabolism by up-regulating TGF-β1 and Smad2, and inhibiting osteoclast generation. Icariin, a key flavonoid, enhances erectile function by increasing nitric oxide levels and improving penile blood flow, as demonstrated in animal studies. Epimedium extracts may also improve lipid metabolism and elevate estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, potentially benefiting bone health and cardiovascular risk. The effect size for bone mineral density improvement is moderate (SMD of 0.8, 95% CI: 0.4 to 1.2, p < 0.001). Consistent supplementation over weeks to months is required for significant effects.
How it works
Epimedium flavonoids, particularly icariin, activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, promoting osteoblast differentiation and inhibiting osteoclast activity, which is crucial for bone metabolism. Icariin enhances nitric oxide production, leading to improved penile blood flow and erectile function. Epimedium extracts may influence hormone levels, including estrogen, impacting bone health and other physiological processes. Icariin increases the expression of nitric oxide synthase isoforms, enhancing erectile function. The bioavailability of Epimedium flavonoids can be influenced by the presence of other compounds and the method of extraction. High doses of Epimedium extract can interact with other drugs by altering their pharmacokinetics.
Side effects
Epimedium is generally considered safe at recommended doses, but potential interactions and side effects should be considered. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects may include headaches, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions and interactions with medications, such as increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants. Significant interactions with sildenafil have been observed, indicating potential herb-drug interactions. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data, and bleeding disorders due to potential interactions with anticoagulants. Postmenopausal women may benefit from estrogenic effects, but careful monitoring is advised due to potential hormonal changes.
Dosage
For osteoporosis, doses of Epimedium total flavonoids ranging from 200 to 500 mg per day have been used in clinical studies. For erectile function, icariin doses of 20-60 mg per day are commonly recommended. High doses above 2 g/kg/day in animal studies have shown significant herb-drug interactions, but human data on maximum safe doses is limited. Consistent daily dosing is recommended for both osteoporosis and erectile function benefits. Extracts standardized to contain specific percentages of flavonoids (e.g., icariin) are preferred for consistency and efficacy. Bioavailability can be enhanced by co-administration with fatty meals. Vitamin D and calcium supplements may be used in conjunction for enhanced bone health benefits.
FAQs
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits on bone health and erectile function may take several weeks to months to become apparent with consistent use.
Can it be used with other medications?
Caution is advised, especially with medications like sildenafil, due to potential herb-drug interactions. Consult with a healthcare professional.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Generally considered safe, but long-term studies are limited, and monitoring for side effects is recommended during extended use.
When should I take it?
Consistent daily dosing is recommended, preferably with meals to enhance absorption of the active compounds.
What can I expect from using Epimedium?
Potential benefits include improved bone mineral density, enhanced erectile function, and hormonal benefits in postmenopausal women.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/18/6/7323 – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the curative effects and safety profile of Epimedium total flavonoids for primary osteoporosis. The study found that EF treatment exhibited good curative effects and safety, comparable to other treatments like calcium and vitamin D supplements, improving bone mineral density and reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39624844/ – This study examined the effects of icariin on erectile function in vitro and in vivo. It found that icariin enhanced erectile function by increasing nitric oxide levels and improving penile blood flow, suggesting a potential mechanism for its aphrodisiac effects.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1415265/full – This research explores the impact of Epimedium flavonoids on bone metabolism, highlighting their role in promoting osteoblast differentiation and inhibiting osteoclast activity. The study suggests that these flavonoids activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is crucial for bone health and regeneration.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1505926/full – This study investigated the interaction between Epimedium sagittatum extract and sildenafil in rats. It found significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of sildenafil when co-administered with high doses of Epimedium extract, indicating potential herb-drug interactions that could affect the efficacy and safety of sildenafil.
Supplements Containing Epimedium Aerial Parts Extract
Horny Goat Weed 600 mg
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Damiana Male Potential
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Full Spectrum Horny Goat Weed 1200 mg
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Full Spectrum Horny Goat Weed 600 mg
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Horny Goat Weed 1000 mg
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Rehmannia Vitalizer
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Total-T Ultimate
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Nature's Way