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§3.3.8 · BotanicalsBotanical Stimulants

Horny Goat Weed

Acute: Moderate riskDependency: Moderate risk

Images

Quick reference

Routes
Oral
Form
Capsule (Powdered Plant Matter)
Shulgin rating
+

Experience

Primary effects

  • Causes a warm, flushed sensation and a slight dazed or foggy feeling, resembling a sugar rush.
  • Reported to potentially increase blood flow and improve sexual function, though this experiment found minimal impact on libido.

Peak character

  • Characterized by persistent warmth and a mild haze, with a feeling of being slightly dazed.
  • Not overtly psychoactive, but creates a noticeable departure from baseline, feeling more energy-related.

Negatives / side effects

  • Can cause a warm flush, hot face, and a slight dazed or foggy sensation.
  • Potentially lowers heart rate, which might contribute to a fuzzy feeling.

Aftereffects / comedown

  • Effects gradually fade over several hours, returning to baseline by bedtime.
  • The experience was described as disappointing and not worth repeating for recreational purposes.

Reagent testing

Adulterant detection: Epimedium spp. — icariin content. No standard colorimetric test. Supplement adulteration (undisclosed PDE5 inhibitors) is a known industry risk.

Supplement-industry adulteration with synthetic compounds (e.g. sildenafil analogues) is documented. No colorimetric test covers this; COA from reputable supplier is the main protection.

Source

Reference fields and narrative for Horny Goat Weed extracted from The Drug Users Bible by Dominic Milton Trott (MxZero Publishing, 2022).

drugusersbible.com

Harm reduction notice

This platform provides educational and harm-reduction information adapted from public reference material. It does not endorse, encourage, or facilitate drug use. It is not medical advice. If you or someone near you may be in a medical emergency, contact local emergency services immediately.