Also known as barrenwort, horny goat weed, Yin Yang Huo, Herba Epimedii, Epimedium
Farming Type: Organic
Origin: China
Epimedium is an ivy-like ground shrub of the higher and drier areas of China and Tibet. It is in the same plant family as Barberry and Oregon Grape, and its first recorded use is circa 200 B.C.E. in China. The name of the herb in Mandarin, Yin Yang Huo, roughly corresponds to "weed for licentious goat." Legend has it that a goat herder discovered the properties of epimedium by observing his billy goats' uncontrollable sexual appetites after they grazed on the herb.
Some men take horny goat weed in the belief that it’s a natural alternative to drugs for erectile dysfunction (ED). Although still preliminary, there’s new evidence to support the idea. A 2008 lab study found that a compound in the herb blocks the effects of an enzyme that restricts blood flow to the penis. Epimedium, the suspected active component of horny goat weed, appears to act as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, similar to some drugs used for ED. What’s more, the study indicated that horny goat weed could theoretically work better -- and cause fewer side effects -- than current drugs for erectile dysfunction.
Although the study is promising, it’s based only on experiments in a laboratory. It’s too early to tell if horny goat weed will prove an effective and safe treatment in people. Horny goat weed has also been studied as a treatment for other conditions, like osteoporosis and hardening of the arteries. The results have been unclear.
In Magick, Horny goat weed can be used as an offering for certain Male deities, as well as spellwork to enhance a relationship, improve the chemistry between 2 people, and improve sex life.
For educational purposes, only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
