Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed

Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed- Barrenwort

Horny goat weed (epimedium grandiflorum), also known as epimedium or barrenwort, is an herb belonging to the Berberidaceae family native to China, other parts of Asia and the Mediterranean region.

The extracts of the leaves and stems of horny goat weed has been used in Traditional Chinese medicine for centuries as an aphrodisiac, anti-rheumatic agent, to help treat osteoporosis and kidney disease.

Horny goat weed has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Horny goat weed contains the flavonoid, icariin, responsible for the best known health benefits.

Horny goat weed may improve sexual health by boosting your libido and balancing testosterone and estrogen levels.

Horny goat weed may also treat erectile dysfunction. Research has shown that horny goat weed improves circulation by relaxing the smooth muscles of the arteries, allowing more blood flow to reproductive organs.

Horny goat weed may also treat menopause symptoms including vaginal dryness, high cholesterol and low estrogen levels. Studies have shown that women with menopause who had high cholesterol who consumed horny goat extract had a reduction in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Horny goat weed may also treat menstrual irregularities and asthma.

Horny goat weed may also increase the production of testosterone levels needed for the production of healthy sperm and the prostate.

Horny goat weed may help treat coronary heart disease and high blood pressure.

Horny goat weed may also promote bone health and lean muscle mass.

Horny goat weed may also balance cortisol levels.

Horny goat weed may interact with certain medications.

Horny goat weed may have some side effects including, breathing problems, racing heart, increased energy, sweating, or feeling hot.

You should not consume horny goat weed if you a hormone-sensitive cancer, heart disease, known sensitivity to epimedium or are taking aromatase inhibitors.

As always, consult with your physician.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epimedium

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317023

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK583203/

https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/horny-goat-weed