Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium sagittatum)

 

Epimedium is a genus about 60 or more species of herbaceous flowering plants, including Epimedium sagettatum. The Chinese call the plant Yin Yang Huo, which can be translated as "Licentious goat plant". Many species of Epimedium are alleged to have aphrodisiac qualities. According to legend, this property was discovered by a Chinese goat herder who noticed sexual activity in his flock after they ate the weed. Epimedium has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine.

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Other Names

Herba Epimedii, Barrenwort, Bishop's Hat, Fairy Wings, Horny Goatweed, Yin Yang Huo, Xian ling pi.

Contents

The main active constituent of Epimedium is icariin, a flavonol glycoside. Epimedium also contains epimedin A, B, C and other flavonoids. (6)(7)

Historical

Horny goat weed was first described in ancient classical Chinese medicinal texts. The use of Epimedium as a medicinal herb dates back to at least 400 A.D. Due to its qi-boosting and spirit quieting effects, the dried herb is traditionally used to relieve stress and fatigue. Chinese folk healers were reported to use Epimedium decocted with squid and red wine as a treatment for bodily fatigue and lack of strength due to overtaxation. It is believed to remedy fatigue and absent-mindedness. Additionally, Epimedium leaf extracts have long been used as an aphrodisiac, and the herb is a common ingredient in the alcoholic "Spring Wine". (1)(2)(3)

Plant Description

Epimedium is a small ground bearing shrub with broad heart shaped leaves that resemble ground ivy. Native to China, many Epimedium species are now grown as an ornamental herb in Asia and the Mediterranean region. There are evergreen and deciduous kinds (the latter have rich green leaves in summer which turn copper and gold before falling). The flowers vary between species from white to yellow and red.

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Italian botanist Luigi Anguillaria (1571-1570), called this species Epimedio, in his only publication, Semplici (Venice 1561), the first mention of the species originating from Italy. Around the time it came into cultivation, the small perennial found its way into Belgian, French and German gardens. For a long time it was the only one of its genus known in Europe. Later, in 1739, Linnaeus named it Epimedium alpinum.

In the past it was thought that epimedium leaves beaten and added to wine would prevent conception for five days, if drunk after menstruation. In 1597, it was given the English name of ‘Barren Woort', by Gerard in London, "...because, as some authors affirme, being drunke it is an enimie to conception."

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In Chinese medicine, epimedium is regularly employed in the form of a strong herbal tea. In addition, traditionally, the yellowish-green leaves of the herb are drenched in wine prior to using it to prepare pills. In Chinese, the herb is called yin yang huo, which when literally translated into English means ‘the herb meant for lustful aged goat'.

It is important to note that epimedium tablets ought to be taken strictly as prescribed by a qualified herbalist. Compared to several other herbs, epimedium is non-toxic. However, using this herb for a prolonged period may result in a number of side effects, including vomiting, light-headedness, increased dehydration or thirst, dry mouth and even nosebleeds. Similarly, taking this herb in very high amounts may cause amplified reactions, convulsions as well as respiratory troubles. It is advisable that individuals enduring prostate problems or suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension) would be better off if they keep away from taking this herb.