Does Horny Goat Weed Really Make You Horny?

Its scientific name is epimedium, but you’re more likely to see it called horny goat weed. The plant comes from the Berberidaceae plant family, native to China. According to folklore, horny goat weed earned its name after a Chinese goatherd noticed increased sexual activity among goats that consumed it.

This may be because its active ingredient is a flavonoid called icariin, which is loaded with antioxidants that support blood circulation and heart health. Horny goat weed also contains phytoestrogens, which are compounds that support bone health and hormonal health.

In addition to helping with erectile dysfunction (ED), horny goat weed proponents claim (without FDA backing) it can treat and improve:

• Hypertension, or high blood pressure
• Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries
• Menopause and PMS
• Osteoporosis
• Osteoarthritis
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Bronchitis
• Low libido

How does horny goat weed work for erectile dysfunction?

The icariin in horny goat weed may work to treat erectile dysfunction by blocking the action of a protein called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which prevents arteries in the penis from dilating. In men without ED, the body suppresses the action of PDE5 naturally, but men with ED often need help doing so.

It’s worth making a comparison with Viagra and other erectile dysfunction medications that contain sildenafil, which works roughly like horny goat weed to help men achieve and maintain an erection. Sildenafil requires a prescription, but note that it’s about 80 times more potent than icariin.

The horny goat weed may be good for goats if they eat enough of it each day, but one small pill may be a better solution for a human being getting advice from their doctor.

What are potential side effects of horny goat weed?

Few studies have been conducted on the safety and efficacy of horny goat weed, but some long-term users of horny goat weed have cited side effects including:

• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Thirst
• Nosebleeds

Taking a large dose of horny goat weed may cause spasms and severe breathing problems. Other side effects that may occur include heart rhythm problems, slowed blood clotting, bleeding, fainting and low blood pressure. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using horny goat weed at all.

What are the safety concerns of using horny goat weed for sex? 

Before using any horny goat weed products or supplements, talk to your doctor about potential risks, especially if you are taking medications. Horny goat weed is known to interact with many types of medications, including estrogen pills, antihypertensive drugs and anticoagulants, among others. Horny goat weed may also interact with a number of herbs and natural supplements including theanine, ginger and turmeric.

If you’re interested in taking horny goat weed for sex or erection benefits, talk to your doctor to learn more about whether this supplement is a fit for you, and whether it will interact with any of your medications. If your doctor gives you the green light to use horny goat weed, ask for their recommendation on quality supplements. Otherwise, look for products that specifically contain epimedium sagittatum and epimedium grandiflorum, the species that are most commonly used in sexual enhancement. Stay away from products that contain epimedium koreanum, as this form of horny goat weed may cause muscle spasm or loss of muscle coordination.

Last, look for horny goat weed products that have been tested and inspected by a reputable third-party agency such as ConsumerLab.com or U.S. Pharmacopeia. These agencies ensure that supplements contain only the ingredients listed on the label and no harmful contaminants. Supplements are generally not approved by the Food and Drug Administration, so it’s important to choose products that have been properly evaluated by a reputable third-party agency such as these.

Giddy Notice: Our medical experts have informed us that few supplements of this nature have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That is to say that statements and claims made about the efficacy or possible health benefits of these unapproved supplements have neither been evaluated nor reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness. Furthermore, any statements or claims regarding the supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. Our medical experts advise that before you use a supplement in any way,  first consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you have full knowledge of appropriate dosages, if any, as well as any potential side effects or interactions with any prescription medications you’re already taking.