Single Herb Glossary
Yīn Yáng Huò 淫羊藿
| Pharmaceutical name | Epimedii Herba Aerial parts of epomedium "licentious goat wort" |
| Category | Tonify Yang |
| Key Properties | Tonifies KD yang and the fire at the gate of vitality Disperses wind-dampness |
| Properties | Acrid Sweet Warm |
| Tropism | KD, LV |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang 2) Dispels wind-cold-dampness and warms and unblocks the flow of yang qi (Wind-Cold-Damp Bi & Wind stroke) |
| Dosages | 3-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Yin Deficiency with fire. Should not be taken as decoction over long period of time - injures Yin |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Icariine, des-o-methyicariine, β-anhydroicaritine, des-omethy- β-anhydroicaritine, icarisid I, isoquercetin, icariin-3-o-d-rhamnoside, hyperin, sagittatosides A, B, C; epimedins A, B, C; wushanicariin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Sexual and reproductive: increases sperm production, stimulates sensory nerves, and increases sexual desire and activity; leaves and root have the strongest therapeutic effect, followed by fruit and stem; other studies have shown increase in secretion of endogenous hormones, such as corticosterone, cortisol, and testosterone • Respiratory: marked antitussive, expectorant and antiasthmatic effects; antitussive effect attributed to effect on CNS • Antibiotic: inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus albus, S. aureus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis • Cardiovascular: water and alcohol extracts have antihypertensive effect, as demonstrated in rabbit, cat, rat and other animal studies; in rats with renal hypertension, has immediate antihypertensive effect, though blood pressure rebounded upon discontinuation of the herb; antihypertensive effect in cats not reversed by injection of atropine • Antihyperlipidemic: tabbits with high plasma cholesterol levels were treated with 5 ml of decoction twice daily for 30 days; study reported decrease in cholesterol levels but increase in triglyceride levels • Antidiabetic: extract given orally significantly lowered plasma glucose levels in rats, for up to 60 minutes • Anti-inflammatory: subcutaneous injectiion decreased vascular permeability and decreased extent of swelling and inflammation in rats |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.