Horny Goat Weed is a traditional botanical medicine used in China and Japan. Although this herb (which also goes by the names Yin Yang Huo, Inyokaku, and Herba Epimedii) has a history of traditional use for disorders of the kidneys, joints, liver, back and knees, its principle use is as an aphrodisiac.

According to one herbal author, Horny Goat Weed has testosterone-like effects. It stimulates sexual activity in both men and women, increases sperm production, stimulates the sensory nerves, and increases sexual desire.

Horny Goat Weed's aphrodisiac effects has been verified in both animal and human research. Mice treated with a Horny Goat Weed preparation produced "apparent effects on the improvement of sexuality". It was also shown to improve sperm producing capability. Since Horny Goat Weed has been traditionally used for kidney disease, it's interesting that research has demonstrated a sexual potentiation effect and improved quality of life in patients with chronic renal failure who were given Horny Goat Weed.

Research has shown that Horny Goat Weed significantly increases testosterone in mice. This certainly appears to be the herb's mechanism of action, although Horny Goat Weed may have more than one. For example, it has been established that sexual arousal is linked to the activity of cholinergic neurotransmitters. However, an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inactivates cholinergic neurotransmitters within 1/500 of a second. As it turns out, research shows that Horny Goat Weed is capable of inhibiting AChE. Such an inhibition may support higher levels of the key cholinergic neurotransmitters associated with sexual arousal. In addition, research has shown that Horny Goat Weed has anti-fatigue effects and helps prevents adrenal exhaustion.

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