Botanical Overview
Epimedium grandiflorum belongs to the family Berberidaceae and is commonly known as Horny Goat Weed, Barrenwort, or simply Epimedium. It is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. The aerial parts, particularly the leaves, are utilized medicinally.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming with a neutral moisture quality. Its taste is predominantly bitter and sweet, with ascending directionality. It is tonifying in nature and primarily supports the qi.
Primary Actions
- Aphrodisiac
- Vasodilator
- Nervine tonic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Bone health promoter
Indications
Western
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low libido
- Fatigue
- Osteoporosis
- Joint pain
Syndromes
- Male sexual dysfunction
- Postmenopausal osteoporosis
- Neurasthenia
- Chronic fatigue
TCM
- Kidney yang deficiency
- Coldness and weakness in lower back and knees
- Impotence
- Low libido
Syndromes
- Kidney yang deficiency syndrome
- Soreness and weakness of the lower back and knees
- Impotence and sexual dysfunction
Ayurveda
No specific indications documented.
Unani
No specific indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include icariin, flavonoids, prenylated flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and sterols, which contribute to its vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and bone-supporting effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 5-10 g dried leaf daily
- Standardized extract with 10-20% icariin 250-500 mg daily
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately; mild side effects may include dry mouth and dizziness. Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Contraindicated in hormone-sensitive cancers. May interact with anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and hormone therapies.
Astrological Correspondences
No clearly established planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of China, Vol. 2 – Michael Moore (2012)
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3 – World Health Organization (2007)
- Pharmacological effects of Epimedium-derived flavonoids: A review – Deng J et al. (2013)