DIVYA 
December 7, 2020 
Horny goat weed goes by many unconventional names, the common ones being the aforesaid and Epimedium. The term Epimedium refers to the plant that produces the herb. This species of plants is linked with a Chinese origin, although some sources also claim it probably originated around the Mediterranean. At any rate, horny goat weed is an ancient herb with remarkable medicinal properties.
The herb is considered a natural nootropic though many know it for its aphrodisiac properties. The powerful effects of horny goat weed as a sexual enhancer is attributed to the chemical icariin contained in the leaves.
Let’s outline this herb’s uses, how it works, and what makes it effective as a nootropic.
The active chemical component of horny goat weed is icariin. This chemical is believed to have several functions depending on the area of action. The possible mechanisms by which it brings about the powerful nootropic effects of horny goat weed are stated below:
Icariin is thought to improve erectile function and increase testosterone levels by encouraging the growth of neurons and stimulating gene expression in the testes and penis.
Nerves that secrete the vessel-dilating agent nitric oxide (NO) are called nitrergic nerves. Icariin has a positive effect on promoting neurotrophic activities in these nerves. This can help in increasing the production of nitric oxide and contribute to vasodilation and massive blood flow.
As discussed earlier, Icariin inhibits phosphodiesterase 5 enzymes’ action in the smooth muscles of the cavernosa. PDE-5 normally blocks the erectile process. This is probably the principal mechanism for the action of icariin in enhancing erectile function. This also promotes blood flow to the brain.
Icariin can directly cause increased secretion of nitric oxide in vessels within the penis. The function of nitric oxide (NO) supports the dilation of blood vessels and, by extension, penile erection.
Epimedium is considered an effective nootropic favored for boosting sexual health, memory, cognition, and general well-being. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and neuroprotective effects. The benefits of horny goat weed as a nootropic are outlined below.
Primarily, icariin causes increased blood flow to the brain and consequently improved brain activity, including cognition.
Increased blood flow to the brain equals increased oxygen levels. With these, the brain can easily make inputs and retrieve information.
Icariin, the active ingredient in horny goat weed, helps to boost NO in the vessels and inhibit PDE-5 activity. Both effects help to enhance erection. For this reason, horny goat weed is applied in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Several factors can cause the concentration of free testosterone levels in the blood to decrease. This includes stress, lack of exercise, junk diet, smoking, and aging. Testosterone helps in enhancing body functions and sexuality in males. Icariin tends to elevate testosterone production in the body.
It isn’t entirely clear how it does this, but there are claims that icariin can lower cortisol levels in the blood. Cortisol is released when the body is stressed and fatigued, and it adds to the stress. Lowering the concentration of this hormone will reduce stress levels significantly.
Horny goat weed is deemed helpful in treating health problems relating to brittle bones, sexual drive, and respiration. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. Some uses of horny goat weed are:
Horny goat weed can be bought over the counter, but care must be taken to get the right dose to avoid adverse effects. It may be wise to get directives from a doctor before you proceed with taking the supplements.
Currently, there isn’t enough information to ascertain the precise dosage of horny goat weed that would work for different purposes. Factors such as medical history, age, gender, and others would determine the quantity of horny goat weed supplements you take.
Some formulations put into consideration the concentration of the active ingredient. Doses of between 250 mg and 2000 mg have been found effective in some experiments.
Horny goat weed, with its mind-blowing nootropic effects, might give you all the boost you need to keep your body and mind on the alert all day. It has the added bonus of boosting the sexual drive. You may like to try it in addition to a good diet and exercise to get optimal results.
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