Evidence supporting the use of: Horny goat weed
For the body system: Estrogen

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium species) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) primarily as a tonic for sexual health, vitality, and menopausal symptoms. Its traditional applications include support for libido, fatigue, and some symptoms associated with declining estrogen, such as osteoporosis and hot flashes. The active compound, icariin, is thought to have phytoestrogenic properties, meaning it can weakly mimic or modulate the effects of estrogen in the body. However, while some preclinical studies (in vitro and animal studies) suggest potential estrogenic activity and possible benefits for bone health, there is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence in humans to confirm that Horny Goat Weed reliably supports the estrogen system or treats estrogen deficiency. Most claims about its estrogenic effects are extrapolated from traditional use and limited laboratory research rather than robust human trials. Therefore, while the traditional use of Horny Goat Weed for supporting aspects of the estrogen body system is documented, scientific validation is limited, and evidence strength is moderate at best.

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