Horny goat weed is one of the species in the genus Epimedium. It is naturally found in Asia and Europe and is a hardy perennial. Flowers have four petals and bloom in the spring. All species are believed to have aphrodisiac properties. Of them all, horny goat weed is supposed to have the strongest effect.
These plants have been popular in Japanese gardens for centuries but have only recently been noticed in the West. All are natural inhabitants of forest floors and require humus rich soil that drains freely and retains moisture. They also require cool shade.
Flowers of the plant have two main parts. The first of these are the four inner sepals. The second are the four petals within these sepals. Some flowers in this genus have long spurs on the flower petals, others have smaller spurs and larger sepals.
Horny goat weed is available in supplement form. It can be found marketed as a raw herb or a tablet or capsule. It may be the only or main ingredient in these supplements or it may be mixed with a wide variety of additional substances. The main active component in it is called icariin.
Icariin can be bought as an extract in concentrations from 5 to 60 percent strength. Two or four of these at 10 percent strength is thought to be a sufficient daily amount for full benefits. Concentrations made that are higher than 60 percent are generally for laboratory study only. It works by increasing nitric oxide levels and relaxing tissues of smooth muscle, bringing about its aphrodisiac qualities.
Supplements including horny goat weed also claim to benefit the knees, back, joints and liver. It is believed to have anti-fatigue affects upon the body. In addition to this, it protects adrenal function and prevents adrenal exhaustion. Some claim the benefits of the herb are felt as soon as hours after taking them. For others to gain full benefit it may take a week or two.
Icariin also stimulates osteoblasts within bones. Because of this it helps with bone density maintenance. It has therefore been marketed as a treatment for osteoporosis. It may also help individuals who are experiencing the symptoms of menopause.
Horny goat weed is of the Epimedium genus and is found in Europe and Asia. It has strong aphrodisiac properties and can enhance the health of the liver and joints. It may even prevent adrenal exhaustion and prevent development of osteoporosis. For full benefits at least two capsules of 10 percent icariin strength need to be taken each day.
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