Pharmacological actions of the bioactive compounds of Epimedium on the male reproductive system: current status and future perspective
Zhang Y, Wang H, Chen L
Published in Asian Journal of Andrology
Methodology
Review of preclinical and limited clinical evidence for Epimedium bioactives on erectile function, spermatogenesis and testosterone
Key Findings
Icariin acts as a weak phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor and improves erectile parameters in animal models, but no adequately powered human randomised trials exist.
Conclusions
The male sexual-health case for horny goat weed rests almost entirely on animal data.
Limitations
Preclinical dominance; no human dose-response data.
Supplements Studied
Icariin acts as a weak phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor and improves erectile parameters in animal models, but no adequately powered human randomised trials exist.
Outcomes Measured
Preclinical data dominate the evidence for Epimedium and male sexual function.
Icariin improves erectile parameters in animal models, but no adequately powered human trials exist.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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