Epimedium sagittatum has a long history as an herbal remedy. The first literary mention of it comes from the 3rd Century A.D. Chinese pharmaceutical text, "Shen Nung Pen Tshao Ching". Here it is referred to as yin yang huo, or "herb causing goats to copulate excessively," according to The Herbal Resource. The properties of this herb were discovered by Chinese goatherds who observed their goats' exuberant lasciviousness after grazing upon it. Epimedium sagittatum became a traditional Chinese cure for low libido in males and females. It is commonly sold at Asian markets as a "Yang tonic" which produces warm and euphoric sensations in the body, says Botanical.com. Talk with your doctor before taking Epimedium sagittatum.
In addition to increasing lust, Epimedium sagittatum aids in eliminating erectile dysfunction in males by increasing nitric oxide levels in the blood -- relaxing smooth muscle tissue and increasing circulation, according to The Herbal Resource. This natural remedy provides an ancient solution to a timeless and embarrassing problem faced by many men. It is also taken by men wishing to amplify sperm count, says Botanical.com. For this reason it should be bypassed by couples trying to avoid pregnancy. Consult with your physician before taking this herb.
Epimedium sagittatum contains benzene, linolenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid and vitamin E, according to Botanical.com. And The Herbal Resource says this botanical substance increases dopamine and seratonin levels. This may explain its ability to induce euphoria. In addition to its aphrodisiac qualities, Epimedium sagittatum can relieve stress, anxiety and depression. It is traditionally associated with increasing energy and has been used to combat fatigue, according to WebMD. It is also used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine to relieve joint, knee and back pain as well as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and liver disease among other maladies. Epimedium sagittatum also lowers blood sugar levels, says The Herbal Resource. If you need to keep your blood sugar levels up you should avoid this herb. And always check with your doctor before taking Epimedium sagittatum.