Evidence supporting the use of: Horny Goat Weed
For the health condition: Erectile Dysfunction

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Synopsis

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

Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium species) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction (ED). The herb is known in Chinese as "yin yang huo" and has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac and to support male sexual health. The presumed active compound in Horny Goat Weed is icariin, which is thought to have some PDE5 inhibitory activity—the same enzyme targeted by prescription ED medications like sildenafil (Viagra). However, most of the evidence for its effectiveness comes from traditional practice and preclinical studies in animals or in vitro. Human clinical trials are limited, small, and of generally low methodological quality, so the evidence base for efficacy in treating ED is weak. While there is some biological plausibility due to the mechanism of action of icariin, robust and consistent scientific validation in humans is lacking. In summary, Horny Goat Weed is used for ED primarily due to traditional use, with limited scientific support, and its effectiveness in humans remains unproven.

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