Epimedium (Yin yang huo) information



Source:
A woody, pungent ornamental herb found in western and eastern Asia and the Mediterranean, various hybrids are grown elsewhere and most often are used as groundcover, particularly in shady areas. The herb also goes by the name horny goat weed.




Traditional uses:
The Chinese refer to the herb as Yin yang huo, which means "licentious goat plant." The use of Epimedium as a medicinal herb dates back thousands of years. Epimedium is one of the most valued ingredients in their tonics. Epimedium first recorded use dates back to the ancient text, Shen Non Ben Cao Jing (ca. 200 B.C..-100 A.D.) were it was used as a warming herb that improved male fertility. The herb received its more common name, horny goat weed, when goats grazing on the herb were observed to have significantly increased sexual drive.

Clinical studies:
Recently, Epimedium has been extensively used in China for support of the liver and the heart. The herb has also been the subject of a number of animal studies that suggest that icariin, found in Epimedium, may enhance the production of testosterone.

In one such study involving the use of Epimedium as an immuno-enhancing supplement in individuals with chronic renal insufficiency it was found that these patients reported a significant increase in their sexual response, as well as, an increase in their immune response. Effect of Epimedium sagittatum on quality of life and cellular immunity in patients of hemodialysis maintenance Dept. of Nephrology, General Hospital of PLA, Beijing. 1995

Modern day uses:
Today, Epimedium is prescribed by physicians and herbal specialist for the following:

• Increase the pituitary gland's production of androgens thus increasing testosterone production and release
• Increase libido or sexual drive
• Stimulates the sensory nerves
• Promotes erectile function
• Supports muscular growth and Health
• Alleviates fatigue
• Dilation of the blood vessels
• Treatment of respiratory diseases including asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or nursing and children should also consult with their physician prior to taking any new supplements. There have been no significant side effects reported with use of the recommended doses of Epimedium at the time of this writing. Though, excessive doses of the herb have been associated with mild dizziness, nausea and vomiting (return to homepage).