Epimedium Grandiflorum Benefits

With plants named horny goat weed and a variety of other strange titles, it is no wonder that some people shy away from herbal remedies. Many herbal traditions stretch back to ancient times, however, and some herbs have a variety of proven uses. The horny goat weed is no different; its scientific name is Epimedium grandiflorum and is also called bishop’s hat. This plant has been employed in traditional Chinese medicine with a variety of medicinal benefits; these benefits are not all scientifically proven.

Aphrodisiac

• As the nickname horny goat weed implies, epimedium grandiflorum has a tradition of serving as an aphrodisiac and male enhancement supplement.

  The chemicals contained in Epimedium grandiflorum work as muscle relaxers, which allow for greater and faster blood flow throughout the body. This increased blood flow can speed up the response time of the nerves associated with the male reproductive system, making E. grandiflorum a treatment for erectile dysfunction, low libido (in men and women) and other such sexual maladies.

  The relaxing and loosening effect of E. grandiflorum has led some users to employ the herb to treat breathing problems such as asthma and bronchitis. In many of these diseases, airways become constricted, and the relaxing effects can help to calm inflammation and allow for easier flow of air into the body.

Anti-Anxiety

• Some herbal supplement users have suggested that horny goat weed can help to treat anxiety and other similar disorders.

  The chemicals in the herb can help to increase the brain’s production of some chemicals in the brain, including epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. These are the same chemicals that result from pleasant experiences and are present during happy times.

  Many anxiety disorders, including depression, result form a deficiency or imbalance of the chemicals in the brain. Increasing the production of these chemicals can result in relieved symptoms for some patients.

Other Benefits

• Preliminary observations suggest that horny goat weed could be used to treat blood problems such as arthritis, high blood pressure and blood sugar problems. Some users suggest an increase in immune system function as well.

Warning

• As with any medicinal treatment or herbal supplement, do not use Epimedium grandiflorum without first consulting your doctor. Herbal supplements are not legally required to follow laws from the Food and Drug Administration as medicines are, and so these supplements may have side effects or other ingredients that can be harmful.