Epimedium mainly contains flavonoids, polysaccharides, volatile oils, alkaloids, potassium, calcium, magnesium and other trace elements. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that the main active ingredient of Epimedium, icariin, has the effect of treating nervous system, skeletal system, cardiovascular system, immune system, reproductive system diseases and anti-inflammatory. This article focuses on the effects of icariin on the reproductive system.
1. Increase Testosterone
Icariin can promote the secretion of testosterone through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Testosterone is a steroid hormone and the main component of androgens.
The hypothalamus and pituitary are located in the center of the animal. The hypothalamus regulates the cells in the pituitary by secreting releasing hormones and releasing inhibitory hormones.
secretion. The latter in turn regulates the secretory and functional activities of the gonads, thereby controlling the reproductive process. Therefore, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is the advanced center of reproductive regulation. Epimedium can act on this advanced regulation center and play its role in promoting reproduction.
2. Sex Hormones
A large number of studies have shown that icariin has obvious sex hormone-like effects. It can not only promote the secretion of serum testosterone, but also promote the female endocrine system.
3. Sexual Organs
In addition to acting on the gonads, icariin can also directly stimulate the sexual organs, showing a certain protective effect on the sexual organs.
Icariin can improve the structure of testicular seminiferous tubules, reduce germ cell apoptosis, increase serum testosterone concentration, and promote sperm production. At the same time, icariin also promoted the development of ovary and uterus in female rats.
4. Slow Down Reproductive Decline
Testicular damage caused by various factors such as physical and chemical factors and aging can lead to apoptosis of male spermatogenic cells. This can lead to weak sperm, oligospermia or even no sperm in men. Studies have found that icariin can enhance the antioxidant capacity of the testis, slow down the decline of reproductive performance, and facilitate the recovery of reproductive organs after injury.
Summary
This study mainly reviewed the effects of icariin on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, sex hormones, and sexual organs. Icariin has a good protective effect on the reproductive system. At present, epimedium is generally used as a component in the clinical treatment of male reproductive system diseases. Icariin is the most abundant main medicinal active ingredient in Epimedium.