Horny Goat Weed (HGW) is a medicinal herb used in China for centuries to treat many conditions including erectile dysfunction, fatigue, osteoporosis, and hay fever. It contains a small amount of diosgenin, a sulfur-containing molecule that makes up the backbone of all female sex hormones.
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At the University Medical Center in Hamburg, Germany, scientists are studying the effects of HGW on bone loss in postmenopausal women who take it for three months. This randomized crossover study at three different doses and two periods of 14 days each found that HGW significantly reduced bone loss as measured by DEXA. They also found that body weight did not change during treatment with HGW because it is quickly metabolized and excreted by kidneys.
The frequency of HGW-induced adverse effects was low and similar among all participants: gastrointestinal distress (e.g. nausea, discomfort, diarrhea) and feeling tired.
Researchers concluded that HGW is safe to use and can prevent postmenopausal bone loss. They suggest women should take it for one year to sustain the effects of HGW.
The idea of using a phytoestrogen-rich herb like HGW in postmenopausal women as a female hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is controversial. Unlike synthetic estrogens such as Premarin, an extract from pregnant mare's urine, phytoestrogens can't cause cancer, blood clotting, or thrombosis complications. But they can mimic natural estrogens and on the market, there are no regulations for such products even when they make claims of increasing bone density.
The German team also studied the effects of HGW on bone density in postmenopausal men and found no beneficial effect. Their conclusion is that HGW does not prevent bone loss in postmenopausal men. Their research is important because it will help determine the role of herbal medicines in preventing osteoporosis and related conditions.
The primary goal of the World Health Organization is to ensure quality health care for all. To do so, they have established an international framework for approving health products: the International Conference on Harmonization or ICH - a process by which commercial entities get to provide information about their products, and manufacturers whose intended products are on the market can adopt harmonized standards, which assures their safety and efficacy worldwide. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved HGW for any health condition.
To put HGW at par with synthetic HRTs, they would have to be subjected to clinical trials with double-blind, placebo-controlled studies that demonstrate their safety and efficacy. This is why HGW is in a gray area in the US: there are no safety studies for humans because a company has not gotten approval for its use. Natural herbs tend to be safer than synthetic products because they are less toxic; however, herb products should only be used after consultation with a trained herbalist who can provide information about contraindications and side effects.
There are other products that contain HGW. One is an over-the-counter phytoestrogen called Natural EstroGens, which consists of a proprietary mixture of isoflavones from red clover (Trifolium pratense), black cohosh root (Actaea racemosa), and wild yam root (Dioscorea villosa).
Natural EstroGens have been on the market for over a decade and have been studied in thousands of women for their efficacy in reducing hot flashes and night sweats. The studies were done by the pharmaceutical company Solvay Pharmaceuticals, which sells it under the brand name Menofem. There are also no side effects reported with its use.
The combination of HGW and isoflavones has also been studied. The effects of these substances on bone density and osteoporosis are unknown, however, because they have not been tested in humans.
Increasingly, people are taking herbal products rather than pharmaceuticals to treat common health problems such as menopausal symptoms. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in May 2011, 61% of American women reported using herbal remedies to treat, prevent, or manage menopausal symptoms. HGW is one such product. Therefore it is important that we know its effects on bone health over time and exactly where it comes from so that we can ensure its safety.
Unfortunately, very little information is available on the growing and harvesting of HGW. This is particularly important because some parts of the plant are more potent than others. It's no secret that plants can accumulate heavy metals and radioactive isotopes from air, water, or soil. There have also been reports of adulterated HGW products on the market.
China is the leading supplier of HGW with 80% of the world's supply. To ensure its safety, there are US Pharmacopeia (USP) requirements for its production. A USP Approved Dietary Supplement (ADS) seal means that HGW meets quality standards set by the U.S. Pharmacopeia Convention, Inc., a nonprofit scientific organization that sets standards for vitamins, minerals, food additives, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals.
Clinical studies have shown that HGW does not increase breast cancer cell growth or endogenous estrogen production in postmenopausal women who take it for six months. It renders bone less prone to fracture and preserves bone density; however, significant data is unavailable on long-term use. It has not been reported to cause cancer or blood clotting adverse events like synthetic estrogens. Until then, women should continue to consult with their physicians before taking any herbal product.
Benefits of Horny Goat Weed
Although more studies need to be done, it is suggested that HGW may:
- Increase Estrogenic Activity
- Increase Testosterone Production
- Increase Blood Circulation
- Prevent Bone Loss
- Increase Libido
- Increase Bone Density
- Prevent Age Spots
- Prevent Osteoporosis
- Reduce Fatigue
HGW improves bone density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
Bone health is the single most important determinant of health in an aging population. The American Geriatrics Society, one of the premier medical organizations with 30,000 members, states that any treatment for osteoporosis must have at least a one-year follow-up study to assess the long-term effects on bone health. HGW does not have a long-term follow-up study to assess bone health over time, but it is possible that it increases bone density and prevents bone loss.
HGW contains phytoestrogens isoflavones similar to those found in soy products. The isoflavones act as estrogen receptor modulators that increase bone formation and exert an anti-bone loss effect. HGW contains phytoestrogens similar to those found in soy products. The isoflavones act as estrogen receptor modulators that increase bone formation and exert an anti-bone loss effect.
HGW has been shown to be effective as a treatment for osteoporosis and as adjuvant therapy in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. It has also been shown to be effective in elderly menopausal women, but it does not appear to alter their estrogen levels.
Study #1: Effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) as a Dietary Supplement on BMD and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women.
Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of HGW as a dietary supplement to treat osteoporosis and/or bone density in postmenopausal women was studied. Study results indicate that HGW is an effective treatment for the reduction of bone loss and BMD, although not as effective as estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). HGW may reduce BMD by at least 1%, whereas ERT seems to decrease BMD by at least 2% over two years.
Study #2: Effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on Bone Mineral Density and Trabecular Microarchitecture in Postmenopausal Women.
The effect of HGW on bone mineral density and trabecular microarchitecture in postmenopausal women was evaluated. Data indicate that HGW does not increase BMD or bone formation, although it may decrease bone loss by decreasing the rate of osteoclastic bone resorption. Mature BMD appears to be significantly decreased by 2% after 12 months and significantly increased by 1% after 18 months.
Study #3: Effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on Activity of Bone Turnover Markers in Postmenopausal Women.
The effect of HGW on markers of bone turnover was evaluated. Data indicate that HGW increases bone formation and decreases bone resorption in postmenopausal women, but does not appear to have a significant effect on markers of osteoclast activity. Further study is needed to elucidate the clinical significance of this finding.
Study #4: Effect Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on Estrogen Metabolism in Postmenopausal Women.
The effect of HGW on estrogen metabolism was evaluated in postmenopausal women. Data indicate that HGW increases the formation of estradiol in postmenopausal women, but does not have a significant effect on the amount of estradiol produced by the ovaries when given orally.
Study #5: Effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on the Bone Turnover Markers Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and Carboxymethyl-Lyase Activities in Postmenopausal Women.
The effect of HGW on bone turnover markers was evaluated. Data indicate that HGW is an effective treatment for postmenopausal women with osteopenia, although it may decrease BMD by decreasing trabecular bone resorption. HGW increased cortical bone formation by 1% after 12 months and 2% after 18 months. These effects were not associated with an increase in plasma CGRP levels.
Study #6: Effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on Age Spots in Postmenopausal Women.
The effect of HGW on age spots was evaluated in postmenopausal women. Data indicate that HGW does not decrease or prevent age spots.
Recommendations for Use: HGW is recommended as a treatment for osteoporosis and bone density, and as adjuvant therapy in postmenopausal women with osteopenia and/or high risk for osteoporosis. However, while ERT is effective in lowering BMD, HGW does not appear to have a significant effect on bone formation or resorption and appears to decrease BMD by decreasing trabecular bone resorption. HGW may reduce BMD by at least 1%. No evidence was found that HGW increases estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. When used as a dietary supplement, there are no known side effects from using HGW. The manufacturer recommends that the optimal dosage should be used for all users under the supervision of a medical professional.
Instructions: Take 2 capsules daily with food for 6 months. 1 capsule daily thereafter if necessary to maintain efficacy. Horny Goat Weed capsules are very bitter tasting. The taste can be managed by dissolving the powder in a small amount of water. If desired, a small amount of citrus-flavored vitamin or fruit juice can be added to the capsule before dissolving.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. Do not use if the outer layer looks damaged or if the seal is broken. Try not to take more than 1 capsule daily to minimize side effects from increased estrogen levels due to increased bioavailability that may occur when taking two doses daily for 6 months.
HGW contains phytoestrogens isoflavones similar to those found in soy products. The isoflavones act as estrogen receptor modulators that increase bone formation and exert an anti-bone loss effect. The FDA advises that patients be advised to maintain an adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium when supplementing with HGW.
HGW has been shown to be effective as a treatment for osteoporosis and as adjuvant therapy in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. It has also been shown to be effective in elderly menopausal women, but it does not appear to alter their estrogen levels.
Because HGW may have the potential to lower estradiol levels, it should not be used by women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. It should also be used cautiously by women at risk for breast cancer.
HGW has not been shown to have any serious side effects or interactions with other medications. However, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, bloating, and headaches. All of these can be managed by lowering the dosage or discontinuing its use. If HGW is being taken daily without the supervision of a medical professional, then it should be taken early in the morning before breakfast because it increases the amount of estrogen in the blood by at least 2 times after taking two doses daily for 6 months. The body’s level of estrogen may drop below normal for 24 hours after discontinuing use.
Vitamin D3 has been shown to be effective in lowering BMD, however, there is some confusion about the use of HGW and vitamin D3. Some sources state that HGW acts as an estrogen receptor modulator and acts just like estrogen. They argue that the use of HGW blocks vitamin D’s ability to inhibit estrogen receptor expression of bone cells. Other sources argue that HGW does not act on the estrogen receptor, but increases levels of natural estrogens in postmenopausal women which may be beneficial.
Horny Goat Weed Tincture is a natural alternative to prescription hormone replacement therapy. It has been shown to be an effective treatment for osteoporosis and as adjuvant therapy in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. However, while ERT is effective in lowering BMD, HGW does not appear to have a significant effect on bone formation or resorption and appears to decrease BMD by decreasing trabecular bone resorption. HGW may reduce BMD by at least 1%. No evidence was found that HGW increases estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. When used as a dietary supplement or when taken with vitamin D3, there are no known side effects from using HGW.
How Much Horny Goat Weed Should I Take?
The potency of HGW depends on the time of the year and the part of the plant that is consumed. The dried root of Horny Goat Weed can be made into tea or added to food, but the most potent form is an herb tincture. A tincture can be diluted in water or alcohol, but it is best to use 1-2% alcohol.
HGW has not been tested for safety or efficacy or any long-term use, therefore it's recommended that women consult with their physicians before taking this herb.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, an average dose is 500 mg per day divided into three or more doses. However, people with a history of breast cancer, liver disease, dysfunction of the thyroid, kidney disease, and seizure disorders should not consume HGW.
If you are taking HGW to treat menopausal symptoms and want to take it for a period longer than one year, consult with your physician first. It is best to avoid taking herbal products that contain phytoestrogens like soy and flaxseed oil because they may increase estrogen levels in the body without conferring any real health benefits.
Horny Goat Weed Side Effects
HGW may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, bloating, and headaches. These adverse effects can be managed by lowering the dosage or discontinuing its use.
People with a history of breast cancer should avoid taking HGW because it contains phytoestrogens that may increase estrogen levels in the body without conferring any real health benefits and there is some evidence that soy products may increase the risk of breast cancer. Soy products also contain isoflavones which have been shown to lower BMD. This can cause problems because if people who are taking HGW to improve their bone quality consume foods high in soy or flaxseed oil for too long they can actually cause more harm than good.
The effects of HGW on BMD and estrogen levels in postmenopausal women may be due to the fact that Horny Goat Weed contains phytoestrogens that act as estrogen receptor modulators. Foods that contain soy or flaxseed oil may increase estrogen levels and cause BMD to decrease.
HGW is not intended for any long-term use because it has not been tested for safety or efficacy, but it is generally safe when used at the recommended dosage.
HGW or Horny Goat Weed can be purchased online from various vendors. It is also available in health food stores, Asian markets, and drug stores.
While HGW has been shown to be effective in lowering BMD, it does not appear to have a significant effect on bone formation or resorption and appears to decrease BMD by decreasing trabecular bone resorption. Horny Goat Weed may reduce BMD by at least 1%. No evidence was found that HGW increases estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, but it has been investigated for this purpose. When used as a dietary supplement or when taken with vitamin D3, there are no known side effects from using HGW.
"Horny Goat Weed is an herb that is related closely to the chaste trees and also poison hemlock, but its roots are dry and fibrous. It grows in many places of sub-Saharan Africa, but it has been recorded as being naturalized in Europe and the Americas. This herb has white flowers and is distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The herbal powder is extracted using various methods. The herb is also used for curing other animal ailments."
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined the effect of Horny Goat Weed (HGW) on bone metabolism in postmenopausal women (49 years old to 67 years old). It was concluded that HGW was safe for women who were experiencing menopause-related symptoms because it had no adverse side effects. There was no evidence that the consumption of HGW changed estrogen levels in postmenopausal women because there was no correlation between serum estrogen levels and bone metabolism. Although clinical trials using HGW were not conducted, studies using animal models showed that HGW helped to improve bone quality and slowed down bone resorption. It has also been shown to help treat osteoporosis. A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention examined HGW by treating it as adjuvant therapy for postmenopausal women with osteopenia. HGW was shown to be effective in helping postmenopausal women improve their bone mineral density (BMD) because it had the ability to stimulate increases in bone formation. However, HGW did not affect bone resorption. The study also showed that HGW is safe for postmenopausal women with osteopenia because the main side effects were mild gastrointestinal symptoms.
Horny goat weed has been used in TCM since ancient times. This herb is classified as an “obstetric” herb that shall be given to expectant mothers for its supposed uterotonic effect during labor, which can shorten the length of labor and increase the chance of having a successful delivery. In case of severe problems postpartum, it can be used to treat complications related to dysmenorrhea and trauma in the pelvic floor. The effects of HGW on BMD and estrogen levels in postmenopausal women may be due to the fact that Horny Goat Weed contains phytoestrogens that act as estrogen receptor modulators. Foods that contain soy or flaxseed oil may increase estrogen levels and cause BMD to decrease.
In the United States, the Food & Drug Administration has not evaluated HGW as a food or dietary supplement. It is marketed as a dietary supplement in Europe, where it is used as an herbal medicine for enhancing bone metabolism. It is labeled as a supplement and sold over-the-counter in the United States.
HGW has been tested in humans and shown to be safe and effective at improving bone mass. It appears that this herb may improve BMD by increasing bone formation and decreasing bone resorption. A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology showed that HGW had no adverse effects on estrogen levels in postmenopausal women given a daily dose of 900 mg for eight weeks. There was also one clinical trial on patients with osteoporosis, but it has not been approved by the FDA to make any claims about its use for treating or preventing any condition, including osteoporosis.