A Guide to Horny Goat Weed For Men & Women

So what is the weed with the funny name? 

All about horny goat weed

Horny goat weed is a plant native to China and refers to a group of flowering plants known as epimedium. For many centuries, the herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for low libido, erectile dysfunction, pain, and fatigue.

The active ingredient in horny goat weed is icariin, which is thought to increase blood flow to all the right places, improve sexual function, and heighten energy and stamina. Horny goat weed also contains phytoestrogens, which are chemicals that behave similarly to the estrogen hormone. 

Horny goat weed goes by many other names, including yin yang huo and barrenwort, but for obvious reasons, we prefer "horny goat weed."

Horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction

This herb comes up most frequently as a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). According to WebMD, there is some scientific and medical evidence that horny goat weed can help ED; "A 2008 lab study found that a compound in the herb blocks the effects of an enzyme that restricts blood flow to the penis." Essentially, horny goat weed works in a similar way that Viagra does. 

Horny goat weed for women's libido

Just as the world hasn't bothered to invent a "Viagra for women," there are not many studies on the impact of horny goat weed on women's libido. People use horny goat weed for all sorts of sexual issues as well as to treat symptoms during and after menopause, but the science has been minimal to nonexistent at best. 

Editor's note: As with any new supplement, consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating horny goat weed into your regimen.