Icariin is a flavonoid-7-O-glycoside, structurally characterized by a kaempferol backbone substituted with a 3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl group and glycosidic linkages. Notably, icariin is abundant in plants of the Epimedium genus (commonly known as Horny Goat Weed), with high concentrations in species such as E. koreanum and E. brevicornu; trace amounts are also found in rye pollen, grapevine leaves and stems, jujube fruit, and some Passionflower species, but Epimedium remains its primary source for supplementatio
Among its possible health benefits
· Bone Health
· Cardiovascular Health
· Neuroprotection
· Circulation
· Erectile Dysfunction (inhibits PDE5)
· Testosterone balance
· Anti-inflammatory
· Antioxidant
· Anti-tumor
· Anti-apoptotic
· Glucose balance
· Diabetic complications
A recent meta-analysis published in June 2025 systematically evaluated preclinical studies on icariin’s effects on diabetic nephropathy, including data from nine animal studies. The meta-analysis found that icariin significantly improved key diabetic nephropathy biomarkers, reduced blood glucose and kidney injury indicators, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity, particularly at higher dosing levels and with interventions lasting less than eight weeks. These effects were attributed to icariin’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic actions.
Icariin- Important Bioactive From Plants!
