Osterly Market Epimedium, American Ginseng & Astragalus

Epimedium, American ginseng and astragalus. Three herbs, named in order.

A three-herb capsule led by epimedium. We renamed this page because the previous title said American ginseng alone and that was not accurate.

What it's for

Epimedium, commonly called horny goat weed, is a traditional Chinese herb containing icariin, which acts on the same enzyme pathway as prescription ED medication — weakly. American ginseng is a calmer, cooling counterpart to Korean red. Astragalus is a traditional immune tonic. The supplier markets the combination as a male performance product; that is what it is.

How to take it

• Follow the label dose with food
• Traditionally taken in cycles rather than continuously
• Speak to a doctor before taking this if you use nitrates, blood pressure medication or ED medication — icariin acts on the same pathway and the combination can drop blood pressure
• Not for use in pregnancy

On the label

• Epimedium, Panax quinquefolius and astragalus, all named
• Epimedium is the lead ingredient, not a minor addition
• 60 capsules

What this is not

• Not plain American ginseng — see our Korean Red Panax for a straightforward ginseng
• Not a treatment for erectile dysfunction
• Not tested for undeclared pharmaceuticals

The straight answer

On the label: the bottle reads "Epimedium American Ginseng Astragalus Capsule" and the supplier's imagery markets it for male performance. Worth knowing: this product category has a documented history of undeclared prescription ED drugs turning up in it, which is dangerous for anyone taking nitrates. We would want a certificate of analysis before recommending it to anyone.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medication.