Icariin is a , a type of flavonoid. It is the acetylation of 3,7-O-di. The compound is derived from several species of plants in the family, which are commonly known as Horny Goat Weed or Yin Yang Huo. Extracts from these plants are reputed to produce effects, and are commonly used in to enhance erectile function, as well as for several other indications. It is thought that icariin is likely to be the primary active component of Epimedium extracts, as it has been shown to share several mechanisms of action with compounds used in Western medicine to treat and improve sexual function. In particular, icariin has been demonstrated to act as a and to enhance the production of bioactive , as well as mimicing the effects of . It also shows , and effects in animal studies, as well as stimulating activity in bone tissue which has been linked to a possible therapeutic role in the treatment of .