Yin Yang Huo | my TCM | Traditional Chinese Medicine simply explained

Legend has it that a goatherd discovered the effect of Yin Yang Huo when his herd showed an unusual willingness to mate after eating the leaves. Hence the popular name Horny Goat Weed - an herb that can do far more than its name suggests.

Fairy flower herb Epimedii herba Yin Yang Huo

Flavor Sharp

Temperature Warm

Meridian Kidney, liver

Plant part Leaf

Class Middle class

Direction of action Toning

Helps with Yang & Yin

Yin Yang Huo - the elf flower herb (Epimedium) - is the best-known Yang tonic in TCM and has also become well known in the West thanks to its popular name Horny Goat Weed. However, its effects go far beyond strengthening the libido. The herb warms the kidney yang, strengthens tendons and bones and dispels wind dampness from the joints. In the famous Er Xian Tang formula, it is used together with Xian Mao to treat menopausal symptoms - in both men and women. Modern research has identified Icariin as an active ingredient with PDE5-inhibiting properties - a natural counterpart to synthetic sexual enhancers.

Effect from a Western perspective

Icariin - the main flavonoid - is one of the most intensively researched active plant substances in TCM. Its PDE5-inhibiting effect has made epimedium the subject of numerous pharmacological studies.

PDE5 inhibition: Icariin improves erectile function via the NO/cGMP signaling pathway
Anti-osteoporotic: promotes osteoblast differentiation and inhibits bone loss
Neuroprotective: protects neurons from ischemia-reperfusion damage
Cardioprotective: improves heart function and reduces myocardial fibrosis
Immunomodulating: regulates T-cell function and cytokine production
Oestrogen-modulating: binds to oestrogen receptors and alleviates menopausal symptoms

Effect from a TCM perspective

Yin Yang Huo tonifies kidney yang, strengthens essence and expels wind-dampness. It simultaneously strengthens yang and expels wind-dampness - a rare dual effect that makes it indispensable for complex kidney patterns with bi-syndrome.

Tonifies the kidney yang in cases of impotence, infertility and loss of libido
Strengthens tendons and bones in case of weakness in the back and knees
Expels wind-moisture-cold for joint pain (bi-syndrome)
Strengthens the essence (Jīng) and revitalizes the Ming Men fire
Supports kidney function with frequent urination

Application & dosage

6-15 g in a decoction (standard dose) Up to 20 g for pronounced Yang deficiency with Bi syndrome As a powder: 1.5-3 g per intake Prepared with lamb fat (Yáng Zhī) for enhanced Yang effect

Dosage forms

Decoction, granules, tablets, powder, wine extract

Dosage

6-15 g (decoction)

Combinations & formulas

With Xian Mao (Curculigo rhizome) it forms the core pair of the formula Er Xian Tang - the standard formula for menopausal complaints caused by simultaneous yang and yin deficiency of the kidney. With Du Zhong (Eucommia bark) and Xu Duan for chronic back pain and knee weakness due to kidney deficiency. With Wei Ling Xian (Clematis root) for Bi syndrome with Cold-Dampness and simultaneous Yang deficiency.

Contraindications & caution

Contraindicated in Yin deficiency with heat signs - rising fire, night sweats and dry mouth are increased. Do not use in case of overactive sexual desire (minister fire excess). Caution with high blood pressure due to rising liver yang. Contraindicated during pregnancy. If taking antihypertensives or PDE5 inhibitors at the same time, medical consultation is recommended.