Horny Goat Weed

What is it?

Horny goat weed is an herb whose leaves are used as traditional medicine. In Chinese it is called “yin yang huo”. It contains chemicals that improves blood flow hence has been used to boosts sexual function. It also contains a female hormone called phytoestrogen which might reduce bone loss in those post-menopausal women.

Benefits

Horny Goat Weed has been thought to help conditions like osteoporosis, erectile dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, memory loss, liver disease and heart diseases. However currently there are no highly evidence based evidence and studies on its actual benefits. More research need to be done to prove the supposedly helpful benefits.

Possible side effects

Certain types of species of horny goat weed is possibly safe when used for under 2 years of duration. Certain species when used for long term can caused side effects like dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, epistaxis (nose bleeding) and increased thirst.

For lactating and pregnant woman, it is unsafe to take it hence it is best avoided. Horny goat weed will lower blood pressure hence should be used with caution with people who already have lower blood pressure to prevent fainting spells.

Drug-drug Interactions

1.         Anti-coagulants/anti-platelets: as horny goat weed slows clotting, when used together with anti-coagulants it will increase risk of bruising and bleeding.

2.         Anti-hypertensive drugs: as Horny goat weed lowers blood pressure, it may lower blood pressure further when used with medications to treat hypertension.

Dosage

There is currently no specific guidelines on the dosage. Please follow the instructions on product label and if in doubt consult your doctor first. Do not take for long term. 

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