Epimedium Dangers

Epimedium is a perennial herb found growing throughout Asian countries, most notably in China. This medicinal herb has played a role in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Epimedium is a genus encompassing over 60 different species. Epimedium sagettatum is the species most commonly used to treat a variety of ailments, diseases and illnesses. There are dangers associated with the use of epimedium supplements despite it being a natural product.

• Medicinal Herb Warning Plaque

Other Names

• A number of different names refer to this medicinal herb. Barrenwort, Bishop's Hat, Fairy Wings, Herba Epimedii, Horny Goat Weed, Inyokaku, Xian Ling Pi and Yin Yang Huo are all common names for epimedium sagettatum. Epimedium is most often found as a dietary supplement but can be found in other forms such as dried or raw leaves. Other herbal supplements often include this medicinal herb in their ingredients.

Uses

• Traditional Chinese Medicine uses epimedium to treat common ailments such as back pain, fatigue and forgetfulness. This herb is used to treat general pain and achiness, nerve pain and pain in joints, such as the knees. Traditional Chinese Medicine prescribes epimedium sagettatum to treat some cancers, kidney ailments, bone loss and liver diseases. Epimedium is commonly used to treat impotence in men. It dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow to penile tissue. It will also mildly increase a woman's libido. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, this medicinal herb may also prevent some of the bone loss that occurs in postmenopausal women.

Interactions

• Dangerously low blood pressure and excessive bleeding are reported side effects of using this medicinal herb. Epimedium sagettatum is not recommended for anyone who takes medications for hypertension due to the risk of it dangerously lowering blood pressure. It is not recommended for individuals taking anticoagulants such as aspirin, Heparin and Warfarin. Taking medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), heart medications and anti-depressants along with epimedium may also result in a negative reaction. Rapid heart rate and mood swings may occur.

Side Effects

• Side effects of epimedium include blurred vision, cramps, dry mouth, headaches and nausea. More severe side effects include insomnia, mood swings, muscle spasms, nosebleeds, a rapid heartbeat, respiratory depression and vomiting. It is possible to overdose on epimedium. A warning sign of overdose is a prolonged and excessive dilation of the pupils. Individuals diagnosed with hormone-sensitive cancers are highly discouraged from taking it due to the possible estrogenic effects of this medicinal herb.

considerations

• The safety and efficacy of epimedium has not been clinically studied. Individuals are encouraged to consult with a doctor before taking any epimedium supplements, drinking tea made from it or ingesting the raw leaves. Recommended dosage depends on an individual's age, overall health and the presence of any serious disease. Individuals are encouraged to discontinue the use of epimedium if side effects occur. Individuals who experience serious side effects should seek immediate medical treatment.