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Yin Yang Huo (淫羊藿), the herb Epimedium, tonifies Kidney yang, strengthens the sinews and bones and dispels wind-damp. It is widely used for impotence and for yang deficiency with painful obstruction.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Epimedium spp. (Herba Epimedii)
Common English Name
Epimedium / horny goat weed
Taste
Acrid, sweet
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Liver, Kidney
Actions & Functions
- Tonifies Kidney yang and fortifies yang
- Strengthens the sinews and bones
- Dispels wind-damp
Indications
Kidney yang deficiency with impotence, infertility and frequent urination; weak and painful lower back and knees; and wind-damp painful obstruction with numbness and cramping in yang deficiency.
Dosage
6-15 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Xian Mao and other yang tonics (Er Xian Tang) for menopausal disorders with yang and yin deficiency.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in yin deficiency with heat.
