Epimedium is a traditional Chinese remedy that consists of 60 herbal plants. Used for several diseases but also to evoke sexual desire, this medicine is commonly known as horny goat weed. Most of these herbal plants are native to China. However, you can adapt many of these plants to grow in gardens or containers.
Benefits
Epimedium has been used to treat asthma, bronchitis, congestive heart failure, viral infections of the heart, liver disease, polio and HIV. Moreover, epimedium purportedly reduces joint pain, memory loss, blood clotting, menopause problems, fatigue and high blood pressure. According to the website Annies Remedy, modern Chinese herbal treatments generally combine epimedium with other plants. Furthermore, the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences classified the medicine as a special class of herbs that can slow down aging and contribute to longevity.
Aphrodisiac
Epimedium is also believed to arouse sexual activity, as it stimulates the sensory nerves and sexual desire. The remedy, also nicknamed horny goat weed, obtained its nickname from a Chinese proverb about a goat farmer who discovered the aphrodisiac properties of epimedium after eating the herb. According to MayoClinic.com, epimedium contains chemicals that could help to stimulate blood flow and sexual function, including sperm production. Consumed as tea or capsules, epimedium can also fight sexual performance problems like involuntary ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Side Effects
According to the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, little is known about the safety or side effects of epimedium. However, use of the remedy for long periods of time or in high doses might be unsafe. Other possible side effects include vomiting, thirst, nosebleed, dizziness and a dry mouth. Additionally, consuming large quantities of these herbs could result in serious breathing problems. You should not consume epemedium during pregnancy, and it is unknown if it is safe to take when breast-feeding.
Bad Combinations
Epimedium may interact with other drugs and herbal remedies that lower blood pressure and slow blood clotting. If you already have low blood pressure and take medications to increase your blood pressure, avoid taking epimedium. Since epimedium can cause your blood pressure to drop, taking these herbs can potentially cause you to faint. Moreover, if you use this medicine while in combination with anticoagulant and anti-platelet drugs, you could cause bruising and bleeding instead of slowing down the blood-clotting process.
References
- "Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth"; Jonny Bowde; 2008
- Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine; Andrew Chevallier; 2000
- MayoClinic.com; Erectile Dysfunction Herbs: A Natural Treatment for ED?; November 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Epimedium; March 2011
- Annies Remedy: Epimedium
