Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Epimedium, commonly known as "Horny Goat Weed," is a traditional herb in Chinese medicine, primarily utilized for its purported aphrodisiac properties and to support sexual health and vitality. Its use to support the adrenal glands specifically, however, is based more on extrapolation than direct traditional or scientific evidence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Epimedium is thought to "tonify the kidney yang," which is a broader concept involving vitality and energy, sometimes associated with adrenal function in Western interpretations. However, "kidney yang" in TCM does not directly equate to the adrenal glands as understood in modern physiology.

There is minimal direct scientific research linking Epimedium to adrenal gland support. The majority of studies have focused on its active ingredient, icariin, for sexual function, bone health, and cardiovascular effects, not adrenal health. Any claims about its adrenal support are thus largely based on traditional uses relating to energy and stress rather than clinical evidence. Overall, while Epimedium is popular in herbal formulas aimed at overall vitality and energy—sometimes marketed for adrenal support—the evidence for this specific use is weak and not well established either by tradition or modern science.

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