Men's Health
Erectil
Herbal blend with a published ingredient list
4.6 · 12 published reviews
KSh 5,900 KSh 11,800 −50%
Horny Goat Weed — Epimedium
A traditional Chinese medicine herb containing icariin, used in libido formulas.
Role in a formula: Traditional herb used in male libido and circulation support formulas.
What it is and where the name comes from
Epimedium is a genus of flowering plants used in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is known as yin yang huo. The English name comes from a piece of goatherd folklore about animals becoming more active after grazing on it — a story that has done more for its marketing than any laboratory has.
The compound of interest is icariin, a flavonoid concentrated in the leaves. Good products specify their icariin percentage; products that simply say "epimedium extract" tell you very little.
The mechanism, and why it needs a warning
Icariin has been shown in laboratory work to inhibit PDE5 — the same enzyme targeted by prescription erectile dysfunction medicines. Its potency in that role is a small fraction of a pharmaceutical, and laboratory activity does not translate directly into a clinical effect at supplement doses.
But the shared mechanism carries a real safety implication. Anyone taking nitrate medication for a heart condition must not combine it with PDE5 inhibition, and that caution reasonably extends to a supplement working through the same pathway. If you take nitrates, or any medication for a heart condition, do not take an epimedium supplement without asking your doctor.
Other cautions
Epimedium may affect blood pressure and may interact with anticoagulants. It is not intended for women, particularly not in pregnancy, and not for anyone under 18. As with the rest of this category, an erection problem that appeared suddenly is a reason to see a clinician — it can be an early cardiovascular signal.
Products on Farma360 that contain Horny Goat Weed
Erectil contains Horny Goat Weed
Listed at the launch price with the composition published on the product page. Name and phone only, confirmation by call, payment to the courier on delivery.
KSh 5,900 KSh 11,800 −50% launch price
Horny Goat Weed — questions
Is horny goat weed like Viagra?
No. Icariin acts on the same enzyme in laboratory conditions but at a small fraction of the potency, and a food supplement is not a medicine. The shared mechanism does, however, mean the nitrate interaction warning applies.
Who should avoid epimedium?
Anyone taking nitrates or heart medication without medical advice, anyone on anticoagulants, women, and anyone under 18.
Other ingredients explained
See the full ingredient index, browse all supplements, or read the guide to reading a supplement label.
Important. This page describes an ingredient used in food supplements. It is general information, not medical advice, and nothing here diagnoses or treats any condition. If you take prescribed medication, check any supplement with a pharmacist before starting it.