Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Horny goat weed (Epimedium sagittatum) contains icariin, a flavonoid compound that acts as a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, similar to prescription erectile dysfunction medications. The herb traditionally supports sexual function and may offer cardiovascular benefits through nitric oxide enhancement.
Origin & History
Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium sagittatum) is a perennial herb native to Asia, particularly China, belonging to the Berberidaceae family, with its aerial parts (leaves and stems) used medicinally. The plant is harvested and processed into extracts, powders, or decoctions, with icariin as the primary active compound extracted via purification methods such as solvent extraction from leaves.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Clinical evidence for Horny Goat Weed is limited to small trials of multi-ingredient products rather than standalone Epimedium studies. One controlled crossover trial (n=63) tested a 5-ingredient formula including Epimedium for erectile dysfunction, while another trial (n=49) compared a combination product to Kampo medicine, finding no differences in sexual function scales or hormone levels. No PMIDs for standalone human trials were identified.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
{"macronutrients": {"protein": "Approximately 2-3% by weight", "fiber": "Approximately 5-7% by weight"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"Vitamin C": "Trace amounts", "Vitamin A": "Trace amounts"}, "minerals": {"Calcium": "Approximately 200 mg per 100g", "Magnesium": "Approximately 100 mg per 100g", "Zinc": "Approximately 3 mg per 100g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"Icariin": "0.1-0.5% by weight", "Flavonoids": "Approximately 2-5% by weight", "Polysaccharides": "Approximately 10% by weight"}, "bioavailability_notes": "Icariin and other flavonoids have moderate bioavailability, often enhanced when consumed with fats. Mineral absorption can vary based on dietary factors and individual health conditions."}
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Icariin, the primary bioactive compound in Epimedium sagittatum, inhibits phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) enzyme, leading to increased cyclic GMP levels and enhanced nitric oxide signaling. This mechanism promotes smooth muscle relaxation in blood vessels and penile tissue. Additional flavonoids like icaritin and epimedins may contribute to antioxidant effects and endothelial function improvement.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Small controlled trials have evaluated multi-ingredient formulas containing Epimedium for erectile dysfunction, showing modest improvements in sexual function scores. However, most studies lack isolated Epimedium testing, making specific efficacy difficult to determine. Preliminary research suggests potential cardiovascular benefits including blood pressure reduction, but human studies remain limited. Current evidence is considered preliminary and requires larger, well-designed clinical trials for definitive conclusions.
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