There are many herbs around the world which are used by traditional medicine systems for treating various kinds of diseases or disorders. The herbs are underrated but their effect in different conditions is quite impactful. Such herbs are found in different parts of the world and are used by native people as per their knowledge. One such herb is Horny Goat Weed, a herb having its roots in the Traditional Chinese medicine system. It has been famous for centuries for its aphrodisiac property. The blog discusses the possible uses of horny Goat Weed in Erectile Dysfunction.
Key Takeaways
- Horny goat weed belongs to the Traditional Chinese Medicine System and has benefits in variety of conditions.
- The active compound of horny goat weed is icariin which is responsible for its aphrodisiac properties.
- It helps in increasing the libido, sexual function and is marketed as a natural aphrodisiac.
- The herb has inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well.
- Horny goat weed is available in different forms like in the form of powder, capsules, teas and extracts.
- Also, the quality and potency of different forms can vary.
- There are many clinical trials going on Horney Goat Weed and Maca already in the present time.
What is Horny Goat Weed?
As aforementioned, it is a Chinese herb with yin yang huo as its chinese name. It has synonyms like Epimedium and herbal viagra. The active compound of this herb is icariin and it is helpful in Erectile Dysfunction.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile Dysfunction is a condition which is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain the penile erection which is sufficient for satisfactory increase sexual performance. The prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is common at the age of 40-70 years. It is mostly because of the nutrient malabsorption resulting in deficiencies, excessive alcohol intake, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord or nerve injuries.
How Horny Goat Weed is Helpful in Erectile Dysfunction?
Following are the points to understand how horny goat weed work in Erectile Dysfunction:
- Erectile dysfunction is due to an enzyme called PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5. This enzyme has a specific action to regulate cGMP (Cyclic guanosine monophosphate)- specific signaling pathways in normal physiological processes like smooth muscle contraction and relaxation.
- In the herb Horny goat weed, its active compound icariin is known to inhibit the enzyme PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5. This causes vasodilation in the penile region and causes prolonged erection.
- Here the icariin behave as an PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5 natural inhibitor and might have similar structure as cGMP (Cyclic guanosine monophosphate. They bind with PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5 and reduce hydrolysis of cGMP. It enhances the effect of nitrogen oxide. Thus increased levels of cGMP in smooth muscles and resulting in prolonged erections.
Are There Any Side Effects of Horny Goat Weed?
Horny Goat Weed is not having side effects. Best to visit a qualified doctor before you start it's intake.
Who Should Avoid Horny Goat Weed?
Patients with hypertension, cardiac diseases, bleeding disorders or with slow blood clotting mechanisms should avoid intake of horney goat weed extract. Also, patients on certain types of medications should consult a qualified doctor before starting its intake.
Summary
The Horny Goat Weed is a Chinese herb which is having potential health benefits in Erectile Dysfunction. Erectile Dysfunction can be related to age or mismanaged lifestyle and diet. Due to its active chemical constituent it is helpful in Erectile dysfunctions and works by inhibition of PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5 enzyme. This enzyme results in hydrolysis of cGMP and thus interrupts vasodilation. But with intake of Horny Goat Weed there is continuous flow of cGMP in the smooth muscles resulting in vasodilation and good blood flow in penile region hence providing prolonged erection.
