What is epimedium? What is it used for?

Epimedium is a large, leafy plant native to China which has been given the humorous moniker of "horny goat weed" for its alleged sexual potency. The plant has short, thin stems and large, shovel-shaped green leaves that are harvested during the summer and fall. 

Some species of epimedium also contain green or purple flowers, but they all have the same medicinal properties. The above-ground portions of the plant, including the stems, are used in herbal remedies. 

Epimedium is used for a variety of disorders. It is sometimes used alone or with rehmannia to treat impotence and frequent urination, and as an aphrodisiac. It is also used to treat arthralgia, rheumatic conditions, back pain and muscle spasms. In traditional Chinese medicine, epimedium is believed to tonify the kidney by strengthening kidney yang, dispelling wind and eliminating dampness.

How much epimedium should I take?

Most practitioners recommend 6-12 grams of epimedium depending on the condition being treated. The herb can be decocted in water for an oral dose; ormacerated in wine for an infusion; simmered into a soft extract, or mashed into a powder.

What forms of epimedium are available?

Dried epimedium leaves can be found at some Asian markets and specialty health food stores. Epimedium powders and extracts are also available.

What can happen if I take too much epimedium? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

Because epimedium has a "drying" effect in traditional Chinese medicine, it should not be used in cases of hyperactivity of fire due to yin deficiency, or by people who are otherwise yin-deficient. As of this writing, there are no known drug interactions with epimedium. As always, make sure to consult with a qualified health care practitioner before taking epimedium or any other dietary supplement or herbal remedy.

Horny Goat weed (epimedium) has been renowned in China for ages, as an aphrodisiac, a kidney yang restorative, and a liver tonic herb. Epimedium is combined with a synergistic blend of potent Chinese herbs, traditionally used to help support the health function of kidney, liver and heart, and to promote healthy levels of natural energy. The Chinese believe that the kidney stores the essential energy (ching), which they regard as supporting the vitality of life and sexual vitality. Stress and the hectic modern lifestyle are considered to diminish the ching, and Chinese herbalists often recommend periodic restorative yang tonics to both men and women. Regular tonification of kidney and liver was believed to contribute to good health and longevity. It also was considered to help promote the healthy function of the back, bladder and joints and to help maintain healthy normal memory. The traditional time-tested way to use these beneficial herbs was brewed as a tea.

How to make a Hot Tea
Start with fresh, cold water. (The better the water quality, the better the tea will taste.) Place a tea bag in your favorite cup or mug. Bring water to a rolling boil and immediately pour over your tea bag. Steep for a good 3 to 5 minutes. (Great taste can't be rushed—it really does take the full time to release the tea's entire flavor.) Remove the tea bag, relax and enjoy! (Serve it “clear” or try it with milk and sugar.)

Here's a coldwater method for clear, cloudless iced tea:
Fill a quart pitcher or container with cold tap water. Cover. Let stand at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Add 4 to 6 tea bags or 1 Family Size tea bag (remove tags). After at least 6 hours (or overnight), remove tea bags, squeezing against side of container. When ready to serve, pour into ice-filled glasses. Makes 1 quart. Recipe may be doubled.


DISCLAIMER
Some individuals may have adverse reactions to certain plants, herbs, and other natural products.
On any issue where no specific advice is given to consumers please follow this general advice; if you are currently taking the product; 
you are advised to discontinue use and consult your pharmacist or herbal medical doctor.
When speaking to your doctor or pharmacist you may find it is helpful to take a copy of this MHRA advice about the product with you.
You should continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor.  

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