Evidence supporting the use of: Barrenwort
For the health condition: Menopause

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Synopsis

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

Barrenwort, also known as Epimedium or "Horny Goat Weed," has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for centuries to address various health concerns, including symptoms associated with menopause such as reduced libido, fatigue, and bone health. Traditional practitioners have valued barrenwort for its purported ability to balance hormones and enhance vitality, which are believed to help alleviate some menopausal symptoms. The active compound most often cited is icariin, which is thought to have mild phytoestrogenic effects, potentially mimicking some actions of estrogen in the body. However, scientific studies specifically investigating barrenwort’s efficacy for menopause are very limited and mostly preclinical. Some animal studies suggest that icariin may support bone health, which is relevant given the increased risk of osteoporosis after menopause. Human data, however, are sparse and insufficient to draw firm conclusions. Overall, while there is a strong traditional rationale for using barrenwort in menopause, rigorous scientific validation is lacking. Its use for menopause remains primarily rooted in tradition, with limited and low-quality evidence from modern research to support its effectiveness or safety for this purpose.

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