Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) and HoneyBoost™
Epimedium is a delicate woodland herb with a nickname far bigger than the plant.
In brief
- A leafy herb of Asian woodlands
- Heart-shaped leaves are the part used
- Contains a plant compound called icariin
- Widely used in men's vitality formulas*
What it is
Epimedium is a group of small flowering plants with heart-shaped leaves and dainty spring blooms. Most species grow in China, and gardeners also plant them as shade-loving groundcover. The common name, horny goat weed, comes from an old folk tale about goats grazing on it.
Where it comes from
Wild and farmed plants grow in cool, shaded hills. Workers pick the leaves in summer, dry them and grind them or turn them into an extract. Icariin is one of the best-known plant compounds from the leaf.
Where it fits
Epimedium appears often in men's vitality blends, the category HoneyBoost belongs to.* The Supplement Facts panel on your HoneyBoost bottle lists the exact formula and amounts. Epimedium: The Woodland Herb tells the plant's story.
Worth knowing
- Called yin yang huo in Chinese tradition
- The leaf is the part used
- Icariin is one of its best-known compounds
- The nickname comes from folklore
Easy ways to explore it
- Read the epimedium guide
- Look for the name Epimedium on labels
- Compare it with tribulus
Often grouped with
Epimedium is often grouped with:
Public sources
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary supplements, what you need to know
- NCCIH: Using dietary supplements wisely
Common questions
Where does the nickname come from?
It comes from a folk tale about goats that grazed on the plant.
What is icariin?
It is a plant compound found in the leaves.
Which part of the plant is used?
The leaf.
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