Horny goat weed is an herb used in Chinese medicine to treat a range of issues from erectile dysfunction (ED) to osteoporosis to rheumatoid arthritis. You may also hear it referred to as Epimedium, Icariin, or Yin Yang Hou. Horny goat weed is believed to be effective for managing ED because it contains chemicals that may increase blood flow and improve sexual function.
It may also help reduce bone loss associated with osteoporosis because it contains phytoestrogens that act similarly to the hormone estrogen. Horny goat weed is even thought to relieve hay fever symptoms due to the properties of the herb that help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
If you’re interested in trying horny goat weed for ED or any other health issues, be sure to talk to your doctor to find out the best way to take it and precautions to consider.
How to Take Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed is typically available in capsule or tablet form or brewed in tea. In traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are often part of multi-herb formulations which means you’ll likely find horny goat weed combined with Maca, Panax Ginseng, Tongkat Ali, Saw Palmetto, L-arginine, and other stimulating herbs.
Since horny goat weed may help improve the cardiovascular system while reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system, you’ll see supplements and teas that recommend it for a wide range of issues, including:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Liver and kidney problems
- Memory loss
- Osteoporosis
Horny Goat Weed Dosage
Most dosage guidelines recommend taking 5 g of horny goat weed three times a day, regardless of whether you take it in a capsule or tea. Some dosage suggestions claim that horny goat weed tea may have milder side effects because the herb has been soaked in water.
Horny goat weed shouldn’t be taken for more than 1 to 2 months, because long-term use may cause cardiovascular problems that range from dizziness to spasms to severe breathing issues.