Evidence supporting the use of: Epimedium
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)

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Synopsis

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

Epimedium, commonly known as "Horny Goat Weed," has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for supporting bone health, particularly in the context of aging and menopausal women. In TCM, Epimedium is considered to "tonify the kidney," a concept traditionally associated with bone strength and vitality. While there is some preclinical research that suggests certain compounds in Epimedium, such as icariin, may have beneficial effects on bone metabolism—promoting osteoblast activity and inhibiting bone resorption—these findings are primarily from in vitro and animal studies. Human clinical trials directly demonstrating significant bone-strengthening effects or reduction in osteoporosis risk remain limited and inconclusive. Most of the support for Epimedium's use in bone health thus derives from traditional practices and historical usage patterns rather than robust scientific validation. While promising, current evidence is insufficient to firmly recommend Epimedium as a primary intervention for skeletal health based on modern clinical standards.

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