Horny Goat Weed Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Horny Goat Weed, Herba Epimedium, Yin Yang Huo, Epimedium grandiflorum, Epimedium sagittatum, Icariin
Overview
Horny Goat Weed, derived from plants of the *Epimedium* genus, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb containing bioactive flavonoids, primarily icariin. It is commonly used as a natural supplement to address sexual dysfunction, enhance libido, and potentially improve bone health and mood. Icariin is believed to work by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), similar to some erectile dysfunction medications, which increases nitric oxide levels and promotes vasodilation. While some clinical trials suggest benefits, the overall quality of evidence is mixed, with a need for more high-quality, large-scale studies. It is available in various forms, including glycerite liquid extracts, capsules, and powders. The plant sources are primarily *Epimedium grandiflorum* and *Epimedium sagittatum*.
Benefits
Horny Goat Weed may offer benefits for bone mineral density, as suggested by a meta-analysis indicating improvements with total flavonoids from the herb. However, specific effect sizes for sexual function are not well-established. The primary proposed benefit is in improving erectile function due to icariin's potential PDE5 inhibitory effects, though robust clinical evidence is limited. Some anecdotal reports suggest mood improvement and increased energy levels, but these are not supported by rigorous clinical trials. Studies have primarily focused on middle-aged to older adults with sexual dysfunction or osteoporosis-related bone density loss. More research is needed to quantify the clinical significance and effect sizes for these benefits.
How it works
Icariin, the main active compound in Horny Goat Weed, is thought to inhibit phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), an enzyme that regulates blood flow in the penis. By inhibiting PDE5, icariin increases nitric oxide (NO) levels, promoting vasodilation and improving erectile function. Additionally, icariin may inhibit P-glycoprotein, potentially increasing its own bioavailability. The herb also appears to influence bone metabolism pathways, contributing to enhanced bone mineral density. These actions primarily affect the vascular system and potentially bone metabolism.
Side effects
Horny Goat Weed is generally considered safe at typical supplement doses, but formal toxicology studies are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, though mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur. Uncommon side effects include case reports of hypomania and tachyarrhythmia. Rare but serious side effects include severe muscle spasms, elevated creatine kinase, and elevated creatinine, indicating potential muscle toxicity. Potential drug interactions exist with PDE5 inhibitors and P-glycoprotein substrates, warranting caution. It is contraindicated in individuals with cardiovascular disorders or psychiatric conditions due to reported adverse events. Limited data exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and patients with chronic diseases, necessitating caution in these populations.
Dosage
While a minimum effective dose is not clearly established, typical doses in studies range from 200 mg to 600 mg of icariin-containing extracts daily. Specific dosing for glycerite liquid extracts is not standardized. Animal studies have used up to 200 mg/kg without toxicity, but human maximum safe doses are not well defined. It is usually taken daily, and timing relative to meals may affect absorption. Glycerite liquid extracts may offer better absorption than powders, but more research is needed. Co-administration with P-glycoprotein inhibitors may enhance absorption. Due to the potential for serious adverse effects, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
FAQs
Is Horny Goat Weed effective for erectile dysfunction?
Evidence suggests potential benefits due to PDE5 inhibition by icariin, but high-quality clinical trials with robust effect sizes are lacking. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Is it safe to take Horny Goat Weed daily?
Generally safe at moderate doses, but rare serious adverse effects have been reported; medical supervision is advised, especially for long-term use.
Can it be combined with prescription ED medications?
Potential interactions exist; consult a healthcare provider before combining Horny Goat Weed with prescription erectile dysfunction medications.
Are there risks of muscle toxicity?
Rare cases of severe muscle spasms and elevated muscle enzymes have been reported. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if muscle pain or weakness occurs.
How soon can effects be expected?
Effects may take weeks; the exact time course is unclear, and individual responses may vary. Consistent use over several weeks is typically needed to assess effectiveness.
Research Sources
- https://examine.com/supplements/horny-goat-weed/research/ – Examine.com provides a comprehensive review of Horny Goat Weed research, referencing animal and in vitro studies. It highlights icariin's potential to inhibit PDE5 and P-glycoprotein, which may increase bioavailability and efficacy. The review notes the lack of large-scale human RCTs with clinical endpoints and safety data, emphasizing the need for further research.
- https://rdw.rowan.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1840&context=stratford_research_day – This source appears to be a research day presentation. Without the full context, it's difficult to provide a detailed summary, but it likely explores aspects of Horny Goat Weed's effects or mechanisms of action based on available research. Further review of the full presentation would be needed for a comprehensive summary.
- https://examine.com/research-feed/study/1YeRK1/ – This Examine.com research feed summarizes a meta-analysis of RCTs on bone mineral density. The meta-analysis found that horny goat weed total flavonoids improved bone mineral density, suggesting systemic effects beyond sexual health. The summary notes the lack of detailed effect sizes and clinical significance data, with a focus on bone health rather than sexual function.
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/369559-herba-epimedium-horny-goat-weed-toxicity-with-severe-muscle-spasms-and-elevated-creatine-kinase-and-creatinine-a-case-report.pdf?email= – This case report details a 33-year-old male who experienced severe muscle spasms, elevated creatine kinase, and creatinine linked to horny goat weed supplementation. The patient's symptoms resolved after discontinuing the supplement. This report raises safety concerns about potential muscle toxicity associated with Horny Goat Weed.
- https://www.revcolanest.com.co/index.php/rca/article/download/526/814 – This source appears to be a research article, potentially related to anesthesiology. Without the full context, it's difficult to provide a detailed summary of its relevance to Horny Goat Weed. Further review of the full article would be needed to determine its specific contribution to understanding the supplement's effects or safety.