Uses
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate. The effectiveness ratings for HORNY GOAT WEED are as follows:
Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for…
- Weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis). Taking a specific extract of horny goat weed for 24 months in combination with calcium supplements decreases bone loss of the spine and hip in women who have passed menopause better than taking calcium alone. Chemicals in the extract act somewhat like the hormone estrogen.
- Health problems after menopause. Taking horny goat weed water extract for 6 months can decrease cholesterol and increase estrogen levels in postmenopausal women.
- Bronchitis.
- Ejaculation problems.
- Erectile dysfunction (ED).
- Fatigue.
- Heart disease.
- High blood pressure.
- HIV/AIDS.
- Joint pain.
- Liver disease.
- Memory loss.
- Sexual problems.
- Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate it for these uses.
Side Effects Of Horny Goat Weed
When taken by mouth: Horny goat weed extract is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken appropriately. A specific extract containing phytoestrogens has been taken by mouth safely for up to 2 years. Also, a different extract containing icariin has been taken by mouth safely for up to 6 months. However, some types of horny goat weed are POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used for a long period of time or in high doses. Long-term use of these other forms might cause dizziness, vomiting, dry mouth, thirst, and nosebleed. Taking large amounts might cause spasms and severe breathing problems. A heart rhythm problem has also been reported in one man who took horny goat weed in a commercial product used for sexual enhancement. A specific multi-ingredient commercial product (Enzyte, Berkeley Premium Nutraceuticals) that contains it might cause abnormal heartbeats. These changes might increase the chance of having heart rhythm problems. A case of liver toxicity has been reported in a man who took this same product (Enzyte, Berkeley Premium Nutraceuticals). However, since this product contains multiple ingredients, it is not clear if these effects are caused by horny goat weed or other ingredients. In the case of liver toxicity, it’s possible that the side effect was an abnormal reaction that would be unlikely to occur in other patients.
Warnings & Precautions
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Horny goat weed is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth during pregnancy. There is a concern that it might harm the developing fetus. Avoid using it. Not enough is known about the safety of using it during breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid using.
- Bleeding disorders: It might slow blood clotting. This might increase the risk of bleeding. In theory, taking it might make bleeding disorders worse.
- Hormone-sensitive cancers and conditions: Horny goat weed acts like estrogen and can increase estrogen levels in some women. It might make estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as breast and uterine cancer, worse.
- Low blood pressure: Horny goat weed might lower blood pressure. In people who already have low blood pressure, using it might drop blood pressure too low and increase the risk of fainting.
- Surgery: It might slow blood clotting. This might increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Dosage Of Horny Goat Weed
The appropriate dose depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for horny goat weed. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
Other
Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Source All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
