What Is Horny Goat Weed?

Horny goat weed (
 Epimedium
) is a flowering plant often used in herbal supplements. There are actually several different types of horny goat weed species, all belonging to the Epimedium group of flowering plants. Many people may wonder, "What is horny goat weed used for?"
 
The herbal supplement is used for a variety of different purposes, probably most often for treating sexual problems such as impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction, or ED). Horny goat weed is believed to contain numerous "active" components, including flavonoids (plant compounds that may have antioxidant activity) and phytoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds found in plants). One of these phytoestrogens is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, much like Viagra® (sildenafil) and other similar prescription impotence medications.
 
(Click Horny Goat Weed to learn about other possible horny goat weed benefits, to find out what side effects may occur with this product, and for important warnings and precautions for the supplement.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD