Icariin
Icariin Manufacturer | Natural PDE5 Inhibitor (CAS: 489-32-7) Headline: Epimedium Extract Powder | Standardized Icariin 10% - 98% (CAS: 489-32-7) Sub-info: Assay ≥ 98.0% (HPLC) | Extracted from Epimedium brevicornu | Natural Testosterone Booster. USP: • Natural Sexual Support: Validated as a natural inhibitor of PDE5, promoting blood flow and erectile function without the harsh side effects of synthetics. • Bone Density: Stimulates osteoblast activity and inhibits osteoclasts, effective for preventing osteoporosis. • Wide Specifications: From cost-effective 10% for multi-ingredient blends to 98% pure crystals for high-end efficacy.
Introduction
Icariin (CAS: 489-32-7) is a prenylated flavonol glycoside and the primary active component of Epimedium (also known as Horny Goat Weed or Yin Yang Huo).
While traditionally revered in Chinese medicine as a potent kidney yang tonic, modern science has identified Icariin as a unique bioactive molecule with dual benefits: enhancing sexual vitality via the Nitric Oxide/cGMP pathway and strengthening skeletal structure. We utilize specific Epimedium species (E. brevicornu Maxim) rich in Icariin to produce extracts with low impurity profiles, available in Powder and Granule forms.
Category：
Keywords：
icariin
natural
Functions
1.Sexual Health (PDE5 Inhibition)
Icariin selectively inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which is responsible for restricting blood flow. By blocking PDE5 and boosting Nitric Oxide (NO) production, it facilitates smooth muscle relaxation and improved circulation, supporting healthy erectile function and libido.
2.Bone Health (Osteoporosis)
Icariin mimics estrogen's positive effects on bone without its side effects. It promotes the differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells into osteoblasts (bone builders) while suppressing adipogenesis (fat formation), effectively increasing bone mineral density.
3.Neuroprotection
Studies suggest Icariin can cross the blood-brain barrier to protect neurons from toxicity and inflammation, potentially aiding in cognitive function and mood regulation.
Applications
1.Men's Health Supplements
• Specs: 10% - 20% Icariin.
• Formula: Often blended with Maca, Tribulus, and L-Arginine.
• Claim: "Natural Libido Booster," "Performance Enhancer."
2.Bone & Joint Formulas
• Specs: 40% - 60% Icariin.
• Target: Post-menopausal women or seniors at risk of bone loss.
• Synergy: Works well with Calcium, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin K2.
3.Pharmaceutical Research
• Specs: 98% Icariin (Pure Crystalline).
• Usage: Reference standard or API development for erectile dysfunction (ED) and osteoporosis drugs.
Flow Chart
Ethanol Extraction & Crystallization
1.Raw Material: Dried Epimedium Leaves (Harvested in summer/autumn).
2.Crushing: Pulverizing to coarse powder.
3.Extraction: Reflux extraction with 70% Ethanol.
4.Filtration: Separating liquid extract from leaf residue.
5.Concentration: Vacuum evaporation to recover ethanol.
6.Purification:
• For 10-20%: Spray drying with Maltodextrin.
• For 60-98%: Repeated Column Chromatography and Crystallization.
7.Drying: Vacuum drying.
8.Milling: Passing 80 Mesh.
9.QC Testing: HPLC Assay, Moisture, Heavy Metals.
10.Packing: 25kg Drums.
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: Epimedium Extract 10% Icariin (Supplement Grade)
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Appearance | Brown-yellow fine powder | Conforms |
| Odor | Characteristic | Conforms |
| Icariin Content (HPLC) | ≥ 10.0% | 10.5% |
| Total Flavonoids (UV) | ≥ 20.0% | 24.2% |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 5.0% | 3.1% |
| Ash | ≤ 5.0% | 2.5% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | Conforms |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 2.0 ppm | Conforms |
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | Conforms |
| Solvent Residue | ≤ 5000 ppm (Ethanol) | < 100 ppm |
| Total Plate Count | < 1000 cfu/g | < 100 cfu/g |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
• Why: Many low-quality products on the market quote "Icariins" (plural) using UV testing, which inflates the number by counting all flavonoids. We strictly assay for the specific Icariin molecule (CAS 489-32-7) using HPLC to ensure true potency.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
The HPLC chromatogram displays a sharp peak for Icariin at the specific retention time. For the 98% grade, impurities like Epimedin A, B, and C are minimized, showing >98% area normalization.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Hygroscopicity: The extract is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture).
• Storage: Critical to store in tightly sealed containers with desiccant packs.
• Shelf Life: 24 months when stored properly.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Hygroscopicity: The extract is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture).
• Storage: Critical to store in tightly sealed containers with desiccant packs.
• Shelf Life: 24 months when stored properly.
Customer Comments
Sourcing Manager, Sports Nutrition Brand (USA)
2026.03.17
★★★★☆
Lab Director, Biotech Startup (Israel)
2026.03.17
★★★★☆
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FAQ
What is the difference between Icariin and Icariins?
• Icariin: The specific single molecule (CAS 489-32-7). This is the gold standard active. • Icariins: Usually refers to the Total Flavonoids or a group of similar compounds (Epimedin A, B, C + Icariin). • Always ask for HPLC analysis of Icariin to know the true strength.
Which species do you use?
We primarily use Epimedium brevicornu Maxim and Epimedium sagittatum. These species naturally contain higher levels of Icariin compared to others, allowing for cleaner extraction without excessive solvents.
Is it water soluble?
The 98% pure Icariin is poorly soluble in water (better in ethanol/DMSO). For beverage applications, we recommend formulating with a solubility enhancer or using a lower purity water-dispersible grade.
References
1.Dell'Agli, M., et al. (2008). Potent inhibition of human phosphodiesterase-5 by icariin derivatives. Journal of Natural Products.
2.Zhang, G., et al. (2007). Exogenous nitric oxide promotes murine osteoblast differentiation and inhibits adipogenic differentiation. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.
3.Shindel, A. W., et al. (2010). Erectogenic and neurotrophic effects of icariin, a purified extract of horny goat weed (Epimedium spp.) in vitro and in vivo. Journal of Sexual Medicine.
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