Horny goat weed for men is thought to improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to the penis.

As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.

A systematic review noted that horny goat weed was one of the most common ingredients intestosteroneand erectile dysfunction supplements.

Horny Goat Weed benefits and nutrition photo composite

Verywell / Getty Images

Further human studies are needed to determine the efficacy of horny goat weed for erectile dysfunction.

Common Side Effects

Minor side effects of horny goat weed may include abdominal discomfort and nausea.

No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

At least one rat study suggests that horny goat weed may reduce the effectiveness of Viagra.

A study conducted on rats found a significant herb-drug interaction between the supplement and sildenafil.

Specifically, horny goat weed extract decreased the concentration of Viagra.

Further human clinical studies are warranted to clarify the interaction between horny goat weed extract and Viagra.

Forms and Dosage

There is no established dose of horny goat weed.

The supplement is available as a capsule, tablet, powder, or tea.

Some studies suggest it has other positive effects, especially on bone health.

However, more rigorous human clinical studies are needed to clarify the health benefits of horny goat weed.

Caution should be taken if you have certain medical conditions or take certain medications.

Consult your healthcare provider to determine if a horny goat weed supplement is right for you.

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Abushammala I.Interaction of sildenafil with herbal supplements: a review.Bulletin of Pharmaceutical Sciences Assiut.

Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-.Horny Goat Weed.

[Updated 2022 Aug 8].

U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Information for consumers on using dietary supplements.

2015 Dec;47(10):1087-92. doi: 10.1111/and.12393