Horny goat weed, scientifically called Epimedium grandiflorum, is an herb that’s part of the epimedium genus of flowering plants. It’s known by a number of other monikers, including bishop’s hat, barrenwort, fairy wings, and yin yang huo. Most species are found in China, with a few others in Asia and the Mediterranean. The herb has been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, wherein it is believed that using horny goat weed for ED, low libido, fatigue, and other conditions could prove to be effective.
Why Is It Called Horny Goat Weed?
As the story goes, a Chinese goat herder once had his flock graze on a field of this herb. Subsequently, he noticed a significant increase in sexual stimulation amongst his flock. The name stuck and so did its reputation. It didn’t take long for horny goat weed to be integrated into ancient medicinal blends for not only treating libido and erectile function deficiencies, but also to aid the body’s circulation.
Men now use tablets, capsules, and powders of horny goat weed for ED. It is also thought of as a natural aphrodisiac believed to boost testosterone levels. However, the research surrounding horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction is still in its infancy. There is research to support its efficacy in not only helping to stimulate sexual function, but also improving circulatory functions, the immune system, bone growth, as well as treating viruses, just to name a few.
How Does It Work?
In order to best understand how horny goat weed may work for erectile dysfunction, we first need to understand how the body works with regard to sexual function. For an erection to happen, the body signals chemical messengers in the blood, allowing the smooth muscle tissue in the penis to relax. This chemical reaction allows blood to flow to these muscles and engorgement of the penis. However, one of the causes of erectile dysfunction is when an enzyme called protein phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibits the function of these chemical messengers, preventing an erection. Which means that if PDE5 is active in your bloodstream, it will interfere with a successful erection. Some research supporting horny goat weed for ED shows that Epimedium, an active compound found in this plant, may actually inhibit the activity of PDE5, much like Viagra and other drugs used to combat ED.
Flavonoids
While its ability to block PDE5 is the primary focus for using horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction, there’s even more support for this plant because of the variety of flavonoids it contains. Flavonoids are found in a vast array of plants, including chocolate, berries, onions, and tea. Their effects vary from reducing inflammation, to regulating cellular function, to protecting the body by working as antioxidants. How the body uses them depends on the type of the flavonoid. With regard to using horny goat weed for ED, there may be a hormonal function to some of the flavonoids found in this plant which aid sexual function. What’s more than the flavonoids, there are properties in the whole plant which may contribute to the reason horny goat weed is showing promise for its impact on circulation, osteoporosis, as well as on viruses and nerve growth.
How Effective Is Horny Goat Weed for ED?
Technically, horny goat weed isn’t a scientifically established remedy for erectile dysfunction. However, a 2008 study found that Icariin (a compound in Epimedium) is effective in impeding PDE5 in humans. This gives hope for the targeted use of horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction. However there are a variety of other physical conditions which play a role in ED, that horny goat weed may benefit.
While science further researches the use of horny goat weed, it’s important to remember that there are a variety of physical conditions which contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Preliminary research supports that horny goat weed may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. Plus, Icariin which impedes PDE5, also appears to protect liver cells. This is encouraging because there is preliminary research that shows that liver conditions may play a role in erectile function. So understanding the efficacy of horny goat weed for ED isn’t necessarily just about understanding how it treats the acute symptom of ED. It’s also important to consider its potential for enhancing and supporting the health of the whole person.
Are There Side Effects to Horny Goat Weed?
It’s always advisable to speak with your physician before adding a new supplement to your regimen. This is especially important if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications which could interact. Generally speaking, if you have heart disease or hormonal sensitivities, you should avoid taking horny goat weed.
While there are very few side effects to horny goat weed, some may include dry mouth and upset stomach. It’s also important to note that taking horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction, or for any other reason, could result in irregular heartbeat and nosebleeds. Large amounts ingested quickly can result in spasms and breathing problems. Fortunately, there is some research that shows that horny goat weed may offset the side effects of corticosteroids.
Supplements of horny goat weed are usually available over the counter. However, there isn’t a standard, medically established dosage suggested when taking horny goat weed for ED. If you decide to try horny goat weed, a good rule of thumb is to follow the instructions on the package.
If you are looking to support your sexual drive and stamina, consider Howdy Handsome’s Men’s Vitality supplement. It’s a 100% organic blend of natural ingredients, including horny goat weed, saw palmetto, and other essential health boosters to help you reclaim control of your sex life. If you have more questions about horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction, get in touch with us. We’re happy to talk to you.
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