Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Horny goat weed (Epimedium spp.) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a remedy for sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction (ED). The herb’s use dates back centuries; it was believed to "tonify the kidney yang," an important concept in TCM associated with sexual vigor. The active compound, icariin, has been the subject of some laboratory and animal studies, which suggest it may have PDE5 inhibitory effects—similar in mechanism to the prescription drug sildenafil (Viagra). However, the body of evidence from human clinical trials is limited, low-quality, and inconclusive. Most available studies are small, poorly controlled, or conducted in animals, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions about efficacy and safety in humans. Therefore, while horny goat weed is widely used based on tradition, scientific validation remains scant, and its effectiveness for treating ED in humans is not well established. More rigorous clinical trials are needed to determine whether it truly provides benefit for erectile dysfunction.

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