What Is Epimedium Extract (Icariin)? Applications, Dosage, Alternatives & Specifications

Epimedium Extract, also known as Horny Goat Weed Extract, is a natural plant extract processed from the dried aerial parts of plants of the Epimedium genus (Berberidaceae family) through extraction, filtration, concentration, and drying processes. It is a functional ingredient with multiple biological activities. Epimedium was first recorded in the Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer‘s Materia Medica) as a medium-grade herb. It has a long medicinal history as a traditional Chinese tonic herb, with functions of tonifying kidney yang, strengthening bones and tendons, and dispelling wind-dampness. It is used for impotence, seminal emission, weak bones and muscles, rheumatic pain, numbness and contracture, and menopausal hypertension. The main active components of Epimedium extract are flavonoids, including icariin, epimedin A, epimedin B, and epimedin C. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020 edition) uses the total content of epimedin A, epimedin B, epimedin C, and icariin as the quality control standard. Epimedium contains flavonoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids, lignans, trace elements, etc., with pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-osteoporosis, anti-tumor, and anti-apoptotic effects. Epimedium extract products are available in various forms, including standardized extract powders (icariin content ranging from 1% to 98%), ratio extracts, total flavonoid extracts, compound preparations, and capsules/tablets.

The main active components of Epimedium extract are shown in the table below: Component Category

Epimedium extract is known as “herbal Viagra” and the “king of kidney tonification and yang enhancement,” occupying a leading position in the natural men‘s health plant extract market. Its most prominent core advantages include: classic kidney tonification and yang enhancement effects, vasodilation and erectile function improvement, bone health protection (anti-osteoporosis), immune regulation and anti-aging functions, long traditional medicinal history, and extensive modern scientific research support.