Epimedium

Epimedium is an herbal supplement claimed to be beneficial for the treatment of sexual problems such as impotence. It is believed to contain a number of active components, including plant compounds that may have antioxidant activity and estrogen-like compounds. Although it is a "natural" product, it may cause side effects; side effects that have been reported with this supplement include dizziness, dry mouth, and vomiting.

What Is Epimedium?

Epimedium (horny goat weed) is a flowering plant often used in herbal supplements. There are actually several different types of this herb, all belonging to the Epimedium group of flowering plants. This herbal supplement is used for a variety of different purposes, probably most often for treating sexual problems such as impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction, or ED).
 
(Click Epimedium Benefits for more information on what the supplement is used for.)
 

Potential Side Effects

Even though it is a "natural" product, Epimedium can cause side effects.
 Some of the reported side effects include:
 
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Unusual mood or behavior changes.
     
(Click Side Effects of Epimedium to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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