Horny goat weed (epimedium sagittatum)
Horny goat weed is a valuable herb used in Chinese medicine. Horny goat weed is native to the forests of China and Korea.
This valuable herb is reported to help increase blood flow and dilate blood vessels.
According to ancient tradition or folklore the plant got it's name as a goat herder noticed goats eating the plant were extra sexually frisky.
|
Horny Goat Weed
|
The active ingredients in Horny goat weed that provides the many health benefits are flavonoids and a chemical called icariin.
It's pretty well known that any substance that improves circulation should improve sexual function. That is why horny goat weed's number one use is as an aphrodisiac.
Chinese studies show the cardiovascular system may benefit from this herb due to it's ability to reduce blood pressure as well as promote improved circulation - blood flow by reducing platelet stickiness.
Horny goat weed seems to provide it's health benefits due to its flavonoids and icariin working in concert together. In addition this herb contains valuable polysaccharides which in this case are believed to strengthen the immune system.
A side note on flavonoids - Flavonoids are commonly associated with significant cardiovascular benefits, which include the widening of blood vessels and reducing other factors that can raise blood pressure or reduce circulation - blood flow.
Warnings associated with Horny goat weed - those with low blood pressure should because of the blood pressure lowering qualities of the herb. In addition those on blood pressure lowering medication should closely monitor their blood pressure as it may become too low and they may need to adjust medication accordingly.