Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium)
Also known as: Epimedium, Epimedium sagittatum, Epimedium grandiflorum, yin yang huo, icariin extract
Horny goat weed is the common name for several Epimedium species used in traditional Chinese herbalism. Modern extracts are standardized to icariin, a prenylated flavonoid, typically at 10 to 20 percent. It is a staple in libido and male vitality formulas and is sometimes included in bone-support blends. Human evidence is sparse; a systematic review by the Natural Standard collaboration found mostly preclinical data and small, low-quality trials, so expectations should be modest.
Research summary
Icariin studied preclinically for weak PDE5 inhibition and for effects on bone metabolism.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 mg | 500–1,000 mg | — | — |
Typically 500 to 1,000 mg of a 10 to 20% icariin extract daily, often split. There is no validated human dose; ranges come from retail products.
Standardization: 10–20% icariin
Source material: aerial part extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Bitter; capsules preferred.
Formulation notes
Commonly stacked with maca, tongkat ali, and tribulus. Because of reported PDE5 activity, note possible additive effects with nitrate-containing products.
Sources
Related ingredients
Tongkat Ali Root Extract
BotanicalA root extract from a Southeast Asian shrub used in men's vitality, stress, and libido formulas.
Typical: 200–400 mg
Boron (Citrate/Glycinate Complex)
MineralBoron supplied as a blend of citrate, aspartate, and glycinate complexes, the usual form in bone, joint, and men's-hormone formulas.
Typical: 3–10 mg
Fenugreek Seed Extract
BotanicalA generic seed extract of fenugreek, a legume used both as a spice and in traditional medicine.
Typical: 500–600 mg
Tribulus Terrestris Extract
BotanicalA fruit and aerial-part extract standardized to steroidal saponins, marketed heavily for testosterone and muscle building.
Typical: 500–1,500 mg
D-Aspartic Acid
Sports performanceThe D-isomer of aspartic acid, involved in signaling within the hypothalamus and testes.
Typical: 3 g