Sexual Health
Epimedium Background and Benefits

Epimedium  belongs to the Berberidaceae family, a genus of flowering plants. Also commonly known as the barberry family. It includes over 60 species, up to 15 of which are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Epimedium grandiflorum is one of the best-known species, popularly known as goat weed, bishop's hat and fairy wing.
Epimedium grandiflorum is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It is a perennial herb with red stems that can grow up to one meter tall. The heart-shaped leaves initially have a coppery tint that fades with maturity. Epimedium forms flowers of various colors, including purple, pink, yellow and white. The shoots grow from rhizomes, and the specific growth pattern can vary greatly.
 
In TCM, Epimedium extract is most commonly used to treat male sexual function, including low libido and erectile dysfunction. One of the major constituents is icariin, a flavonol glycoside that is an 8-prenyl derivative of kaempferol 3,7-O-diglucoside. The primary biological action of icariin is to inhibit the activity of the cGMP phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme, which primarily affects the cardiovascular system. Epimedium also contains phytoestrogens, which may have effects similar to estrogens.
 

Uses of Epimedium

The most common use of Epimedium in modern herbal medicine is due to icarin, which primarily affects sexual function in men. The phytoestrogens in Epimedium also support bone health and menopause.

Signs that you may need Epimedium include

Sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction and low desire are the main signs that a man may need Epimedium. Post-menopausal women may also benefit from Epimedium, especially if they have low bone mass or unhealthy estradiol levels. Men and women may benefit from Epimedium if they have discomfort from chronic joint disease. Other signs that you may need Epimedium include fatigue, unhealthy blood pressure, and breathing difficulties.