(Newswire.net — February 18, 2013) Phoenix, Arizona — Studies on the use of plants for therapeutic purposes have recently raised more interest on weeds, including the little known plant called horny goat weed (Tribulus Terrestris), or Epimedium. Like many other weed species, this plant is known by several names depending on the locality, including bullhead, puncture vine, caltrop, cat’s head, devil’s eyelashes/devil’s thorn, and goat head.
Earlier studies suggest that the chemical compounds extracted from the plant have similar effects as that of the prescription drug sildenafil (Viagra), which paved the way for horny goat weed supplements to be offered mostly to male patrons in the most unlikely places. However, because of more recent studies, these supplements are slowly entering the mainstream markets and retailers like GNC, Hi-Health, Whole Foods and others, with promises of beneficial effects to numerous health conditions.
In the Middle-east, for example, extracts from various parts of the tribulus terrestris plant are locally used for thousands of years against infections, especially in areas prone to bacteria and fungus. An Iraqi study claims that tribulus terrestris plays a role in curing urinary tract infections. Horny goat weed extract is also prescribed by herbalists and alternative medical practitioners (such as acupuncturists and Naturopaths) for inflammation in the joints and back, relieving pain and fatigue. More benefits of the supplement are cited—including applications on infections, kidney stones, gonorrhea, high blood pressure, psoriasis and even some forms of cancer.
But the most popular use remains that of the use of horny goat weed for supplementing sexual arousal in men challenged by low libido or erectile dysfunction. The plant is said to help men obtain firmer and stronger erections by relaxing penile tissue and improving blood flow within the penis. Other researchers indicate that extract from this Epimedium specie increases sexual arousal in both men and women.
However, identifying a reputable company that markets a reliable blend of the product can be a challenge. Typically, retail horny goat weed extracts possess 5% – 60% icariin, the potent ingredient found in the extract. This variation is because of the differing methods used in manufacturing the product. Also, the FDA has yet to specify the amount required for efficacy, leaving manufacturers to have a free rein on their production standards.
A way to be assured is by purchasing horny goat weed supplements that carry a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) seal and sold only in reputable chains, such as Doctor Care Plus Horny Goat Weed sold on Amazon.com. Consumers have reported better results after a few days of using the nutritional supplement over the more expensive and high dosed blue-pill equivalent.
As the medical community continues to discover the many benefits derived from horny goat weed and come up with more trustworthy studies, along with it come the many suggestions as to the applications of tribulus terrestris.