is an herbal extract that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The flavonoids, sterols, and polysaccharides found in Epimedium are thought to be responsible for its purported health benefits. As interest grows in complementary and alternative medicine, Epimedium warrants further investigation for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and libido-enhancing properties.
In addition to sexual health, some evidence supports the traditional use of Epimedium for bolstering energy and physical capacities. Animal research found increased endurance and altered metabolism in mice given icariin. Another study showed resistance training gains after 8 weeks of supplementation in men. Further clinical trials are warranted to verify these physical performance benefits.
- A 2012 review compiled research on icariin and concluded it may benefit erectile function. The proposed mechanism is increased nitric oxide leading to relaxed blood vessels. This indicates potential for managing certain causes of impotence.
- A 2015 study on postmenopausal women found an Epimedium supplement for 6 months increased sex drive scores compared to placebo. It also improved indicators like vaginal epithelium thickness and sex hormone levels.
- One clinical trial investigated Epimedium's effects on bone health in postmenopausal women. The treatment group had increased bone density and antioxidant levels compared to placebo after 24 months.
for over 2,000 years. Recommended applications include:
- Treating impotence - Compounds like icariin may relax blood vessels and boost circulation to aid erectile function.
- Increasing libido - Herbalists frequently use Epimedium to stimulate desire and sensation in both men and women due to hormone and circulation effects.
- Promoting kidney health - As a kidney tonic in traditional practices, Epimedium is thought to strengthen kidney function and support reproductive health.
- Reducing inflammation - Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions help explain traditional uses for joint and muscle pain relief.
- Strengthening bones - Nutrients like flavonoids support bone remodeling processes to prevent loss and bolster density.
- Increasing stamina - Traditionally used to treat fatigue and weakness, Epimedium may have mild stimulant properties.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Beyond sexual health, researchers are also interested in Epimedium for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Related anti-inflammatory effects are also demonstrated in early studies. Icariin may inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6 and more. By attenuating excessive inflammation, Epimedium could offer therapeutic potential for inflammatory conditions.
Typical doses of standardized Epimedium extracts studied in trials range from 200 to 500 mg once or twice daily. However, optimal dosing still needs confirmation from larger studies. Most supplements contain 5-40% icariin as a benchmark.
Current research suggests Epimedium is generally well-tolerated when used appropriately. Mild adverse effects associated with high doses in some studies include dizziness, vomiting, dry mouth and headaches. Interactions with blood pressure and blood sugar medications are also possible.
1. Chen, K. and Chiu, J.H., 2016. Effect of epimedium brevicornum maxim extract on elicitation of sexual behavior in male rats. Asian journal of andrology, 18(6), p.870.
Dell'Agli, M., Galli, G.V., Dal Cero, E., Belluti, F., Matera, R., Zironi, E., Pagliuca, G. and Bosisio, E., 2008. Potent inhibition of human phosphodiesterase-5 by icariin derivatives. Journal of natural products, 71(9), pp.1513-1517.
2. Han, S.Z., Liu, D.X., Hsiao, W., Zhu, Y., Li, L.L., Yang, P., Li, H.J., Chen, X., Wang, S., Wang, X.W. and He, W.J., 2018. Icariin exhibits anti-osteoarthritic effect by inhibiting NF-КB/NLRP3 inflammasome. International immunopharmacology, 54, pp.263-269.
3.Liu, W.J., Xin, Z.C., Xin, H., Yuan, Y.M., Tian, L., Guo, Y.L., 2007. Effects of icariin on erectile function and expression of nitric oxide synthase isoforms in castrated rats. Asian J. Androl. 9, 381–388.
4. Ma, H., He, X., Yang, Y., Li, M., Hao, D., Jia, Z., 2011. The genus Epimedium: an ethnopharmacological and phytochemical review.J. Ethnopharmacol. 134, 519–541.
5. Ning, H., Xin, Z.C., Lin, G., Banie, L., Lue, T.F., Lin, C.S., 2006. Effects of icariin on phosphodiesterase-5 activity in vitro and cyclic guanosine monophosphate level in cavernous smooth muscle cells. Urology 68, 1350–1354.
6. Shindel, Alan W., Xin, Z.-C., Lin, G., Fandel, Thomas M., Huang, Y.-C., Banie, L., ... Lue, Tom F. (2010). Erectogenic and neurotrophic effects of icariin, a purified extract of horny goat weed (Epimedium spp.) in vitro and in vivo. The journal of sexual medicine, 7(4pt1), 1518–1528.
7.Yap, S.P., Shen, P., Butler, M.S., Gong, Y., Loy, C.J. and Yong, E.L., 2007. New estrogenic prenylflavone from Epimedium brevicornum inhibits the growth of breast disease cells. Planta medica, 73(02), pp.114-119.
8. Zhang, Z.B., Yang, Q.T., 2006. The testosterone mimetic properties of icariin. Asian J. Androl. 8, 601–605.