Chinese herbs

Horny goat weed

Also called: epimedium, icariin, yin yang huo

A Chinese herb (yinyanghuo).

Why people take it
Erections, libido.
What the evidence says
Mostly animal studies.
How it is usually taken
Extracts vary; products are often contaminated with sildenafil-like drugs.
Be careful
High doses can cause fast heartbeat and breathing problems.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to blood pressure medicines and blood thinners; hidden drugs can be dangerous with nitrates.

Other chinese herbs

Dong quaiSchisandraJujubeChrysanthemum teaGynostemmaEucommiaRehmanniaPolygonum multiflorumPuerariaPanax notoginsengAmerican ginsengEjiaoPearl powderHawthorn berry (shanzha)Monk fruit

Common questions

What is Horny goat weed?

A Chinese herb (yinyanghuo).

Why do people take Horny goat weed?

Erections, libido.

Does Horny goat weed work?

Mostly animal studies.

How much Horny goat weed do people take?

Extracts vary; products are often contaminated with sildenafil-like drugs.

Is Horny goat weed safe?

High doses can cause fast heartbeat and breathing problems.

Does Horny goat weed interact with medicines?

May add to blood pressure medicines and blood thinners; hidden drugs can be dangerous with nitrates.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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