From the Guidelines
The recommended approach for Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) is to hold its use for 2 weeks before surgery due to its potential to cause vasodilation, possibly by blocking calcium channels or catecholamine blockade, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 1. When considering the use of Epimedium, it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, especially in the context of surgical procedures. The primary concern with Epimedium is its effect on blood vessels and potential interactions with other medications, which could impact morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Key considerations for the use of Epimedium include:
- Potential for vasodilation, which could affect blood pressure and interact with certain medications 1.
- Lack of standardization in dosage, with typical ranges from 500 to 1000 mg daily, taken in divided doses, but no clear consensus on the optimal dose for specific health benefits.
- Possible side effects, including dizziness, dry mouth, and digestive issues, which could impact quality of life.
- Importance of choosing supplements from reputable manufacturers with third-party testing to ensure quality and safety. Given the potential risks and the lack of strong evidence supporting a specific dosage, the most prudent recommendation is to avoid the use of Epimedium for at least 2 weeks before any surgical procedure, as advised by the consensus statement from the Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) 1. This approach prioritizes patient safety and minimizes potential complications related to morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Take one capsule 45-90 minutes prior to sexual activity. Caution Do not take more than one capsule every 24 hours. The recommended dose of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed), also known as icariin, is to take one capsule 45-90 minutes prior to sexual activity, with a maximum frequency of once every 24 hours [2] [3].
From the Research
Recommended Dose of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed)
The recommended dose of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the following information can be gathered:
- A study published in 2010 4 used doses of 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg of icariin (ICA), the active moiety of Epimedium species, in rats.
- Another study published in 2017 5 used crude extracts of Epimidium sagittatum (horny goat weed) at doses of 300 and 500 mg/kg in mice.
- It is essential to note that these studies were conducted in animal models, and the results may not be directly applicable to humans.
- There is no clear recommendation for a specific dose of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) for humans based on the provided evidence.
Key Findings
- The studies suggest that Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) may have erectogenic and neurotrophic effects, as well as potential benefits for erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease 4, 6, 7.
- Icariin, the active compound in Epimedium, may have phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibiting effects, similar to sildenafil 4, 8.
- The optimal dose and potential interactions of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) with other medications or health conditions are not well understood and require further research.
Potential Applications
- Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) may be used as a potential treatment for erectile dysfunction, particularly in cases where traditional pharmacological treatments are not effective or well-tolerated 4, 7.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacological mechanisms and potential benefits of Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) in humans.