Rena Malik, MD Podcast cover image

Rena Malik, MD Podcast

Moment: Is Horny Goat Weed Really Nature's Viagra for Rock-hard Erections? Urologist Explains

Aug 14, 2024
Dr. Rena Malik, a urology expert, dives into the intriguing world of supplements like horny goat weed and yohimbe, commonly heralded for enhancing erections. She discusses the science behind these herbs, exploring their active ingredients and potential perks. However, Dr. Malik isn't shy about sounding the alarm regarding side effects and the importance of cautious consumption. This informative conversation sheds light on how to navigate the supplement landscape while prioritizing health and well-being.
05:01

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Horny goat weed's active compound, Icarin, may enhance erectile function but suffers from poor bioavailability and lacks strong clinical support.
  • Yohimbe might benefit psychogenic erectile dysfunction, but serious side effects and inconsistent dosing raise significant safety concerns.

Deep dives

Understanding Horny Goat Weed

Horny goat weed, derived from the plant epimedium glandiflorum, is often marketed for its potential benefits in enhancing erections. Its active compound, Icarin, resembles PDE5 inhibitors like Tadalafil and Sildenafil, suggesting it may improve erectile function by affecting smooth muscle proliferation and increasing nitric oxide availability. However, the supplement has poor bioavailability and lacks robust clinical trial support, leading to concerns about its efficacy and safety. Possible side effects include dizziness, vomiting, and even more severe reactions such as seizures, which undermine its recommended use without more compelling research.

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