Horny Goat Weed, also known as Barrentwort or Epimedium.
Chinese folklore states the aphrodisiac qualities of this plant were discovered when a goat herder noticed increased sexual activity among his flock after they ate the plant.
This herb in supplement form and traditionally has been used for sexual performance by men with erectile dysfunction and low desire. But some of the lesser known uses are believed to be that it is good for the back and knees, joint pain, arthritis, mental & physical fatigue, and memory loss. There are many benefits of horny goat weed and these are just a few.
Early research has suggested that it may have properties that keep bones strong, protect the nerves and support the immune system as well. It’s also thought to improve circulation by thinning the blood.
There does seem to be some side effects to taking Horny Goat Weed. They have been described as mood changes like irritability and aggression. Also, a racing heart, as well as sweating, the feeling of being hot, decreased thyroid function and nausea. Some studies have also shown that with long-term use there may be dizziness, vomiting, dry mouth, thirst, and nosebleeds.
Tribulus Terrestris also was known as Caltrop and Goat’s Head.
Tribulus is an annual plant in the caltrop family. It has adapted to grow in dry climate locations in which few other plants can survive. It’s a common weed of the pasture lands, roadsides and other waste places in hot, dry, and sandy regions. It’s also been known as Puncture Vine and has been the bane of bicyclist where it is grown.
This is an herb that’s been historically used in Ancient Greece, India and Africa in support of overall well-being. It’s also been a historic part of the Ayurvedic tradition as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Tribulus has long been used as a tonic and aphrodisiac. Other benefits are listed as including being a diuretic and used in the relief of headaches and dizziness. Its anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to its use in the treatment of arthritis and eczema.
It’s also been used for low sex drive and erectile dysfunction as well as to increase muscle strength and performance in sports. Many supplements on the market today use Tribulus Terrestris, including Testosteroxn by CrazyMass where it is noted to be an “Anabolic Godfather of weight lifting supplements.”
Some other benefits have been noted as being indicated in testosterone and estrogen imbalances. It’s also been noted to aid the inflammatory processes of the genitourinary tract, likely connected with its effects as a diuretic. The Ayurvedic tradition has traditionally used Tribulus in the treatment of hypertension and liver deficiency.
Tribulus Terrestris has been described in the Pharmacopoeia, the oldest pharmacological work in China, as highly valuable, used to restore a depressed liver, in the treatment of fullness in the chest, flatulence, acute conjunctivitis, headaches, mastitis and vitiligo (when pigment-producing cells die or stop producing melanin).
Several studies using a variety of dosages reported minimal to no safety concerns with its use.
Conclusion
While the two herbs are similar, there are marked differences. Make sure to always check with your doctor to make sure you have no conditions which may be contraindicated to the use of these or any other herbs or supplements.
Gary David is the founder and CEO of CrazyMass, one of the nation’s leading supplement companies. Before starting CrazyMass in 2006, Gary was a bodybuilder and personal trainer for several gyms throughout Northwest Michigan, helping clients meet their fitness goals. Gary happily worked in this profession for over 15 years. He saw that most weight gaining products to increase muscle were made with ingredients that were dangerous or of poor quality. He knew there was a safer and healthier way to do this, so he created a special blend of herbs, amino acids, and nutrients to help bodybuilders slim down and gain muscle.
Although Gary no longer participates in bodybuilding competitions, he continues to be involved in the community, helping others prep for shows and attending events where he can advertise CrazyMass products. When Gary isn’t working long hours, he likes to spend his time working out at the gym, boating on Lake Michigan, traveling the trails around Northern Michigan by four-wheeler, and spending time with his family. He also loves to take a yearly trip to Europe with his wife and children.
