Epimedium Grandiflorum Benefits

Epimedium grandiflorum, or horny goat weed, is a perennial herb with light yellow, red and violet flowers and oval fruits, native to Japan, Korea and China. The leaves and roots of the plant have been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. Chemical compounds such as flavonol glycosides and icariin are responsible for the biological activity of Epimedium grandiflorum. It is generally safe to use, although an overdose can lead to dilation of pupils, spasms, cramps and respiratory depression. It may also lead to estrogenic effects. Always talk to a doctor before using horny goat weed.

Cancer

Some recent studies, such as the one published in the May 2011 issue of the "European Journal of Pharmacology," indicate that icariin derived from Epimedium grandiflorum possesses significant anti-cancer activity and inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells in the laboratory. Also, another article in the November 2005 issue of "Phytomedicine" suggests that certain icariin derivatives may have estrogenic effects in the laboratory and may benefit individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers. However, these benefits have not been proven in actual clinical cases.

Impotency

Epimedium grandiflorum has the ability to increase sexual desire and has been used historically to treat impotency, sexual dysfunction and premature ejaculation, says Drugs.com. However, there are no clinical trials or animal studies to prove these benefits. Hence, do not use horny goat weed supplements without consulting a doctor.

Heart Disease

Aldosterone is a hormone that promotes the reabsorption of sodium ions and increases the blood pressure. However, flavonoids extracted from Epimedium species have the ability to inhibit this hormone and may thereby, improve heart function and reverse any changes in the shape, size or function of the heart after congestive heart failure, according to an article in a 2010 issue of the "Anhui Medical and Pharmaceutical Journal." It is, however, important to talk to a doctor before using Epimedium grandiflorum supplements to treat or prevent heart problems.

Bone Loss

Another animal study in a 2007 edition of the "Chinese Journal of Dental Research" states that horny goat weed supplements may reduce the bone loss in post-menopausal women and help prevent and treat osteoporosis of the jaw and thigh bones. However, more research may be needed before Epimedium grandiflorum replaces your existing osteoarthritis medications. Always use the herb under the supervision of a physician only.

Cerebral Ischemia

Icariin may also protect the nerve cells from the damage cause by cerebral ischemia, or reduced blood flow to the brain, report the authors of a study in the October 2005 issue of "Chinese Medical Journal." The herb may exert the neuroprotective effects by preventing free-radical damage and programmed cell death of the nerve cells and by inhibiting the accumulation of calcium in the cells. As with other cases, use the supplements only under the guidance of a doctor.