Epimedium Grandiflorum or horny goat weed is a species of a flowering plant native to China, Japan, and Korea. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine as an aphrodisiac due to the presence of icarriin, a flavonol glycoside that acts as a PDE5 inhibitor, which mimics the effects of testosterone. Thus, in spite of the lack of peer-reviewed research of epimedium grandiflorum’s efficacy, the plant results attractive to nootropic users for its potential antioxidant, antidepressant, and neuroprotective effects.
Horny goat weed may have neurotrophic effects in in addition to known phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibiting effects. By suppressing neuronal apoptosis, Icariin is a potential therapeutic drug for neuronal degenerative diseases. Even though the molecular mechanisms of Icariin anti-apoptotic functions are still largely unclear, in this report, it was found that Icariin induces the expression of Synoviolin, an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-anchoring E3 ubiquitin ligase that functions as a suppressor of ER stress-induced apoptosis. In this way, a previously unappreciated molecular mechanism underlying the neuronal protective function of Icariin makes horny goat weed particularly appealing for the ones looking for neuroprotection.
Horny goat weed has also been researched as a treatment for other conditions, like osteoporosis and hardening the arteries. Nevertheless, the results have been unclear. So far, the plant has mainly been used as a natural alternative to erectile dysfunction, since the herb blocks the effects of harmful enzymes -acting as a phosphodiesterase inhibitor– that restrict blood flow to the penis. Furthermore, subjective reports from female users suggest that the substance might be helpful dealing with lack of libido, acting as an aphrodisiac both in males and females.
While horny weed is an unproven treatment and there is not an official established dose, the anecdotical experiences of their users claim that it is a well tolerated and safe substance that can be taken up 1500 milligrams to with little or no concerns. Good luck!