Several plants in the Epimedium genus are commonly called horny goat weed. These plants can be used as herbal remedies for relieving fatigue, arthritis pain, kidney and liver problems, and erectile dysfunction. Research is scant on Epimedium species in Western medical literature, according to Ray Sahelian, a physician who specializes in natural supplements, but horny goat weed is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine.
Sexual Dysfunction
Epimedium may enhance libido and treat erectile dysfunction. Drugs that treat erectile dysfunction, such as Viagra and Levitra, work by inhibiting a particular enzyme, thus allowing increased blood flow to the genitals. Dr. Sahelian cites research from the University of Milan indicating that icariin, a component of epimedium, may block this enzyme as well as Viagra does. Additionally, icariin may have fewer side effects than Viagra.
Anti-Cancer
Icariin can also decrease the invasion of metastatic cancer cells, or cells spreading from one organ or area in the body to another, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Although herbal medicine cancer treatments in Asia include epimedium, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center cautions patients with hormone-sensitive cancers to avoid remedies containing this herb, since its phytoestrogen flavonoids may have estrogenic effects that can worsen breast, ovarian, uterine and prostate cancers.
Postmenopausal Women
A study published in the July 2007 issue of the "Journal of Bone and Mineral Research" found that components of epimedium have benefits for postmenopausal women. Phytoestrogen flavonoids derived from Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, or EbM, were effective during this 24-month study at preventing bone loss. Additionally, there was no detectable thickening of the endometrial lining, a condition known as endometrial hyperplasia. Postmenopausal women taking supplemental estrogen to prevent osteoporosis are at higher risk for endometrial hyperplasia unless they also take the hormone progesterone. This condition can lead to uterine cancer.
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