Yín Yáng Huò (淫羊藿) — Epimedium / Horny Goat Weed

On this page

1. Overview
2. Properties
3. Actions and indications
4. Key formulas
5. Modern research
6. Cautions and contraindications
7. Treatment at my clinic

1. Overview

Yín Yáng Huò (淫羊藿) — Epimedium brevicornu / sagittatum — is known in English as Epimedium / Horny Goat Weed. It belongs to the category of Yang tonics in the Chinese Materia Medica and is one of the important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is used in Chinese herbal medicine as a component of classical herbal formulas and in tailored prescriptions.

I prescribe Yín Yáng Huò as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan. Herbs are always combined with other herbs selected to match the patient’s individual TCM pattern. Online consultations are available for patients who cannot attend my clinic in person.

2. Properties

3. Actions and indications

Principal actions

1. Tonifies Kidney Yang and strengthens sexual function — the most potent Yang tonic for sexual dysfunction
2. Expels Wind-Cold-Damp and relieves painful obstruction
3. Strengthens the sinews and bones
4. Raises cortisol and supports adrenal function

Indications

1. Impotence and erectile dysfunction from Kidney Yang deficiency
2. Low libido in both men and women
3. Infertility from Kidney Yang deficiency
4. Painful joint conditions — arthritis and Bi syndrome from Wind-Cold-Damp
5. Low back and knee weakness
6. Menopausal symptoms from Kidney Yang deficiency — cold patterns

4. Key formulas containing Yín Yáng Huò

Yín Yáng Huò appears in the following key formulas:

• Er Xian Tang
• You Gui Wan

See the full Chinese herbal medicine formula directory for detailed information on all 70 classical formulas.

5. Modern research

Epimedium (Yin Yang Huo) is one of the most commercially and scientifically researched Yang tonic herbs. Its primary bioactive constituent is icariin, a flavonoid with documented phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitory activity — the same mechanism as sildenafil (Viagra), explaining its traditional reputation for treating erectile dysfunction. Research confirms that icariin improves erectile function, increases testosterone levels, promotes osteoblast differentiation (anti-osteoporotic), has immunomodulatory effects and demonstrates anti-cancer activity in multiple studies. Clinical research supports use in erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis and as a hormonal adjunct in menopausal and andropause conditions.

6. Cautions and contraindications

Avoid in Yin deficiency with Empty Heat, as the warm, stimulating nature will aggravate. Avoid in excess Heat patterns. May interact with blood-thinning medications. Not recommended during pregnancy.

Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). Never self-prescribe or self-administer Chinese herbs without professional guidance. Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a member of the RCHM with over 25 years of clinical experience.

7. Treatment at my clinic

I prescribe Yín Yáng Huò as part of tailored herbal formulas for a range of conditions including Male infertility, Fertility, Menopausal symptoms, Burnout. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment and adjusted throughout treatment as the pattern responds.

I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available throughout the UK and internationally. Visit the prices page for consultation fees.

Return to the Chinese herb directory or the Chinese herbal medicine main page.