The Health Benefits of Horny Goat Weed

Health benefits of horny goat weed from our series on the Health Benefits of Caribbean Food

Chinese legend has it that horny goat weed was discovered when a goat herder noticed his herd becoming more sexually active after grazing on certain patches of weeds. Epimedium grandiflorum, commonly known as horny goat weed or bishop’s hat, has been prescribed for about 2,000 years by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners for a range of health concerns including impotence and low sex drive, bone degeneration, and menopause. It’s also reported to improve cognitive function. Horny goat weed is usually sold in capsule form or dried for use as an herbal tea. Read on to learn about the health benefits of horny goat weed.

1. Horny goat weed treats erectile dysfunction

The most common use of horny goat weed is for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It contains the substance icariin, which works in the same way as the substance sildenafil (viagra) resulting in erections and increased arousal. While icariin has been shown to have weaker effects than sildenafil, many find horny goat weed to be an effective treatment.

2. It boosts sexual libido

Horny goat weed is not just for men, it is commonly prescribed by holistic healthcare practitioners for both men and women as a treatment for low libido. The plant contains alkaloids and plant sterols that cause effects in the body similar to testosterone, increasing arousal and sex drive. 

3. It combats osteoporosis

Early research suggests that postmenopausal women taking horny goat weed for 12-24 months may have reduction in bone loss of the spine and hip. The substance icariin stimulates osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for new bone formation.

4. It improves brain function

Horny goat weed improves blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function.

5. It alleviates menopause symptoms

Although it doesn’t contain any hormones, horny goat weed contains compounds that mimic hormones in the human body. Apart from the alkaloids and plant sterols that cause effects in the body similar to testosterone, horny goat weed also contains the compound desmethylicaritin, which increases estrogen production in women. Overall, horny goat weed seems to help balance hormones. This can be helpful for controlling PMS and menopause symptoms which are related to hormonal fluctuations. 

Disclaimer: We are not doctors or health professionals. We just like to research helpful information. 🙂 Please consult with your physician before making any changes to your health or diet regimen.