Tribulus Terrestris is a medicinal plant native to the tropical regions of the Old World in southern Europe, southern Asia, as well as throughout Africa, and Australia. It has been found to contain properties that may be beneficial in assisting patients with low libido, erectile dysfunction, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, sperm count, infertility, cancer, weak immune systems, inflammation and much more.
Also, it has been found to be beneficial in alleviating menopause symptoms, increasing stamina and muscle strength, enhance physical performance, increase testosterone levels, reduces stress and support weight loss, amongst other things. If you are looking to gain any of these benefits through supplementation, read below to get a full breakdown of everything you need to know about tribulus terrestris.
In a man’s world, sex and libido are everything. Aside from education, your job, money, and power, how well you perform in bed and the ability to fulfill a woman’s fantasies matters a lot. After all, have you seen a guy who is not a fan of sex and women?
Because of this, there is a constant need to provide products and services that help address a man’s struggle inside the bedroom. Hence, the birth of Viagra, Cialis, and other male enhancement products.
One component of many male enhancement products is Tribulus Terrestris. Before you think that the Latin language is making a comeback, let me tell you that this herb is a favorite among supplements, and you could find in health and fitness stores. In fact, this spiny-looking weed is claimed to do a lot for your health and sex life – and not just poke holes on your skin.
The question is, does it really work?
What Is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus Terrestris is a plant native to the Mediterranean soils. It adapts very well under dry climate conditions, whereas fewer plants tend to survive.[1]
Tribulus Terrestris is well adapted to the warm and tropical climates of Eurasia, Africa, Australia, [2]
The plant is known to be aggressive and invasive. It is also popular for its small, woody fruit that has long, sharp spines that can easily penetrate surfaces.[3]
Tribulus Terrestris particularly grows in the soils of California ad Canada. In Canada, it was specifically classified as a “noxious” weed due to its invasive characteristics.[4]
The stems of this plant grow to about 1 meter in length with a diameter of about ten centimeters. These stems usually prostrate and from flat patches, although they grow upwards.[5]
Moreover, it is a type of herb used by ancient Chinese and Indians as traditional medicine. Accounts show that ancient civilizations use this herb to improve cardiovascular and urogenital health and treatment for eye problems, high blood pressure, and poor appetite among others.
The active compounds of this herb are Steroidal Saponins. There are two kinds of steroidal saponins – Furostanol and spirostane, which are both, involved with Tribulus Terrestris effects.
Aside from these two, other components include among others:
- Protodioscin, which is the main bioactive found in the herb’s root extract and seen as the active muscle-building compound
- Dioscin and diosgenin
- Tribulosin, or a spinal vagina steroid
- Protodioscin and Tribestin are both gitogenin type saponins
- Vitamin C
Sometime in the mid-90s, Eastern European Olympic athletes claimed that Tribulus Terrestris helped them in their performance.
Since then, this herb became a favorite in many male health supplements as a libido enhancer and testosterone booster.
If you are suffering from low libido or T-levels, Tribulus Terrestris will help you regain your sexual power.
Benefits of Tribulus Terrestris
Why do people take Tribulus Terrestris?
Aside from improving one’s health, people use this herb to enhance athletic performance and give libido an extra push.
Here are some of the health benefits you could get from this herb.
Increases Muscle Strength and Body Composition
According to a study published the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Tribulus Terrestris supplementation helps increase strength and lean muscle mass – regardless of your age. After five weeks of supplementation, the subject elite rugby league players recorded an increase. However, keep in mind that contrary to manufacturers’ claims, taking Tribulus Terrestris supplements won’t record an increase within 5 to 28 days from use. [6]
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Boosts Libido
Low sex drive is one of the many issues both men and women experience in bed. A 2012 study showed that the fruits of Tribulus Terrestris work as an aphrodisiac and could help with low libido. In the said study, men with low sperm count recorded a significant improvement in their sexual health compared to men in the placebo group. [7]
Natural Testosterone Booster
Did you know that the Tribulus Terrestris extract from Bulgaria has higher protodioscin compared to its counterparts from other countries? According to a study involving rats, the herb’s supplementation showed an increase in the androgen receptor immunoreactivity, thereby altering the androgen signaling. This resulted in an increase in Nitric Oxide Synthase or NOS and a subsequent increase in nitric oxide production. Isn’t that what your T levels need and eventually get your libido back on track? However, some experts are still not convinced whether Tribulus Terrestris could significantly affect your testosterone in a good way. [8]
How Does Tribulus Terrestris Work?
As men start to age, the testosterone production levels start declining in their bodies. To increase the testosterone levels, people go for testosterone shots, testosterone replacement therapies, and other methods that come with many side effects.
Tribulus Terrestris Is A Natural Testosterone Booster
First, Tribulus Terrestris increases the T-levels but does not work as the harmful synthetic anabolic steroids. Instead, it increases the Luteinizing Hormone, which helps the body to synthesize more testosterone inside testicles, also some studies showed that there is a decrease in the rate at which the testosterone was broken down in individuals taking Tribulus Terrestris.
It contains steroidal glycosides and saponins that also show slight androgenic effects on the body.
Tribulus Terrestris Efficacy
Tribulus Terrestris is one of the well-known and established supplements to increase the testosterone and enhance the libido in men.
Read These Case Studies
Case Study 1 – US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health (2014)
A systematic review on Tribulus Terrestris for its aphrodisiac and performance-enhancing effect
In ancient times, the extracts of the aerial fruits have been used for their tonic, diuretic, and aphrodisiac properties. But today, TT is widely used by both bodybuilders and athletes on the basis of the belief that it may enhance the testosterone concentrations. So, to assess the effect on T-levels, an electronic search was carried out using seven databases. The randomized controls included healthy human subjects ingesting TT or a combined supplement. And, eleven studies met the criteria including one patent application. The results showed that trails varied with the TT as a sole or combined treatment. A limited number of animal studies exhibited an increase in Testosterone after TT supplementation, but the effect was only noted in human when TT was used as a combined supplement. Though the literature available for TT on testosterone is limited, evidence suggests that TT is ineffective for increasing testosterone levels in the human.
Case Study 2: US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health (2017)
Efficacy of Tribulus Terrestris for male sexual dysfunction
The primary objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of Tribulus Terrestris, in comparison with Placebo for the treatment of men with ED. This research was done on 180 males who aged between 18 and 65 years with mild or moderate ED. 90 were treated with TT, and other 90 people were given a placebo. Each patient received Tribestan film-coated tablet, which contained TT, during the 12-week treatment. At the end of each month, participants were asses by International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) Questionnaire and Global Efficacy Question (GEQ). The primary result was changed in IIEF score after 12 weeks of treatment. 86 patients in each group completed the study. The IIEF score was improved significantly in the TT group as compared to the placebo group. Moreover, after the 12 week treatment period, the improvement in sexual function was observed with TT.
How To Take Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus Terrestris Dosage
When it comes to taking Tribulus Terrestris supplements, experts agree that the best way to take this is through low dosages. With 60 percent saponin extracts, 200 to 450 milligrams is a safe intake.
You could also distribute the dosage and take the supplements three times a day after meals. A dosage of 85 to 250 milligrams after every meal is safe and common, as long as you don’t exceed 450 milligrams.
Interactions and Contraindications
The interactions and contraindications for Tribulus Terrestris include:
- Interaction with Lithium: Tribulus comes with a diuretic effect. Intake of this supplement might decrease your body’s adaptation to Lithium, which results in serious side effects.
- Interaction with diabetes medication: Tribulus Terrestris is also known to decrease the blood sugar levels. Consumption of TT supplement with diabetes medication may cause your blood sugar to go low.
Moreover, if you are using other over the counter products or drugs at the same time as that of TT consumption, the effects of supplements may change.
Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects
Apparently, all good things come with corresponding risks and side effects – and Tribulus Terrestris is not an exception.
Some of the potential side effects are:
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Mood changes, especially when taken in high doses.
- Possible interactions with certain medications such as beta-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, blood pressure medicines, and Digoxin.
- Muscle coordination disturbances, especially when you take the herb in high quantities. This could also lead to an increase in breast size.
- If your partner is pregnant, make sure to keep this herb away from her since this could lead to problems in fetal development. Consequently, if you have a hormone-dependent condition such as prostate cancer, it is best to stay away from this herb because of the possible links between the two.
Tribulus Terrestris vs. Tongkat Ali For Testosterone Boost
When it comes to male enhancement, Tongkat Ali and Tribulus Terrestris are two names you will always hear. They are both popular herbal supplements, which help in muscle production, boosting testosterone levels, increasing your libido, enhancing your sexual performance, and improving your overall wellbeing. It also helps with erectile dysfunction, which is something you could benefit from, especially when under stress or in the later years of your life.
Between the two, there is more research focusing on Tongkat Ali compared to Tribulus Terrestris. This is important because you want to make sure that what goes inside your body went through thorough research and experimentation. Although Tribulus comes with a lot of health benefits, some of these claims require further research to prove such.
Does this mean it is not safe to take Tribulus Terrestris supplements? It depends. To be sure, don’t forget to consult your doctor if you plan to include this herb in your daily diet. This way, he could check the possible complications and interactions especially if you are under medication.
At the same time, keep in mind that although the Food and Drug Administration regulates dietary supplements such as this, it is considered as food than medication. To be safe, take it easy on the supplements. If you notice any negative changes in your body, stop the pills immediately.
Tribulus Terrestris FAQ
What exactly is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus Terrestris is a perennial plant from the caltrop family that is widely distributed around the world. Native to South Asia, Africa, Mediterranean, Australia, and other areas with a warm climate, this herb was mostly used by ancient Chinese and Indians as traditional medicine.
How do I take Tribulus Terrestris?
The suggested dosage for this supplement is 200-450 milligrams. You can also distribute the dosage and take the supplements three times a day after meals.
Tribulus can take up to two weeks for exhibiting the effects on Testosterone levels; and, a lot of men may also notice a boost in their libido within the first week of usage.
To prevent the body from adapting the effects of testosterone boosters, it is recommended to take a break once in a while.
How does Tribulus Terrestris work?
Testosterone is regulated in your body by the pituitary and hypothalamus glands. These two glands produce the signals that tell the testosterone synthesizing cells to stop when a certain level of testosterone production is reached.
Tribulus works by increasing the levels of Luteinizing hormone, which sends a signal through the body to produce more testosterone. It also contains steroidal glycosides and saponins that also show slight androgenic effects on the body.
Is Tribulus Terrestris a Testosterone pill?
No. It does not contain any testosterone. It is just a supplement that contains the herbal extract from the root of Tribulus Terrestris plant.
What are the benefits of Tribulus Terrestris?
The main benefits of Tribulus Terrestris include improving the testosterone levels, boosting the libido, and sex drive. Moreover, it increases the muscle strength, enhances the athletic performance and also aids in the overall well-being of a person.
Can I take Tribulus Terrestris with other medications such as diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure?
We cannot advise on your current medication and Tribulus Terrestris. If you are taking any medications, we only suggest you take TT an hour or two before the medications. Always consult with a doctor before starting a supplement regimen.
Can Tribulus Terrestris help me with weight loss?
No. According to a 2000 study published in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, some subjects were given 3.21 mg of Tribulus per kilogram of body weight for over a period of eight weeks. The final results did not show any change in the body weight of the study.
What are the side effects of Tribulus Terrestris?
The possible side effects of Tribulus Terrestris include difficulty in sleeping, changes in mood, disturbances in muscle coordination, and an increase in breast size. Furthermore, it has possible interactions with many medications such as diabetic medications and lithium. Also, it may have a negative effect on the prostate like prostate enlargement or worsen existing conditions like worsens prostate cancer.
Is Tribulus Terrestris vegetarian safe?
Yes, it is vegetarian safe because the active ingredients found in them are alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins.
For how long do I need to take Tribulus Terrestris?
You will normally experience the effects of Tribulus Terrestris in or up to two weeks. There are some cases when men have reported a boost in libido within just one week. You can continue to take the supplement as long as you like as there are no side effects known for taking it long term.
Where is Tribulus Terrestris produced?
Tribulus Terrestris is a perennial plant that is adapted to grow in the dry climate locations throughout the world. Native to the tropical and temperate regions of Old World in Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe, it can also thrive in poor soil and desserts.
Do I need a doctor’s prescription to take Tribulus Terrestris?
No. Tribulus Terrestris is a natural product and may simply be bought without any kind of prescription. But it is better to check with him if you are taking other drugs for the fear of drug interactions.
Is Tribulus Terrestris suitable for women?
Yes, it is suitable for women. Studies show that, in the case of women, it enhances mood, enhances energy, and boosts the libido. [9]
Is there a chance that I won’t experience its benefits from Tribulus Terrestris?
Yes, there are chances that you won’t experience any benefits from Tribulus Terrestris. It is a no miracle cure that ensures 100% benefits in any case. Though it has clinically proven efficacy to elevate the testosterone levels and boost the libido; there may be chances that the supplement does not work for you.
Is there anything that I should take apart from Tribulus Terrestris?
While Tribulus Terrestris helps you to increase the testosterone levels naturally, you may also do other things to boost testosterone even more, such as adding other herbs into your regimen.
Is Tribulus Terrestris recommended for a healthy young man?
Yes. If you are looking for benefits like increase in gym performance, mood enhancement, a boost in libido, etc., you can consider this supplement. But remember that younger males with a healthy production of testosterone may not notice any effects of Tribulus Terrestris.
Can people with diabetes use Tribulus Terrestris?
They have to be extra careful as it interacts with the diabetes medication and causes blood sugar levels to go low.
Buying Guide
Tribulus Terrestris is a herb with steroidal saponins that exhibits a positive effect on sex drive and testosterone levels. For many years, it has been used to improve athletic performance and also has incredible effects on the heart, mood, and circulatory conditions.
But did you know that Protodioscin is considered as the most active compound in Tribulus Terrestris? Moreover, most of the TT supplements are just standardized for their protodioscin content. Here is what you need to know before buying Tribulus Terrestris.
Tribulus Terrestris Potency
Tribulus Terrestris has been used in Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, and the traditional way to consume them is in the form of supplement capsules.
But, as TT gained popularity, many companies started developing it for easy administration. As the competition grew, it became quite difficult to spot the difference between real and fake ones, which gave rise to a standardized percentage.
The highest standardized composition for Tribulus Terrestris was with 45% Steroidal Saponins.
Furthermore, the supplement should be 100% vegetarian and should not have any kind of binders, fillers, or allergens.
The actual product packaging of the materials contains more different information that is actually in the supplement. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented and read labels, warnings, and directions before using the supplement.
Where to buy Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus Terrestris extract is available in health and fitness stores like GNC. You could also get one online from various websites such as Nutrition Express and Amazon. When you purchase online, make sure to buy from legitimate websites to make sure you are getting what you paid for.
References  [ - ]
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Zhu, W., Du, Y., Meng, H., Dong, Y., & Li, L. (2017, July 11). A review of traditional pharmacological uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of Tribulus terrestris. BMC Chemistry, (11), 60. DOI:Â 10.1186/s13065-017-0289-x |
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Rogerson, S., Riches, C. J., Jennings, C., Weatherby, R. P., Meir, R. A., & Marshall-Gradisnik, S. M. (2007). The effect of five weeks of Tribulus Terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(2):348-53. DOI:Â 10.1519/R-18395.1 |
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Sellandi, T. M., Thakar, A. B., & Baghel, M. S. (2012). Clinical study of Tribulus Terrestris Linn. in Oligozoospermia: A double-blind study. AYU, 33(3):356-64. doi:Â 10.4103/0974-8520.108822 |
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Gauthaman, K. & Adaikan, P. G. (2005). Effect of Tribulus Terrestris on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-diaphorase activity and androgen receptors in rat brain. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 96(1-2):127-32. DOI:Â 10.1016/j.jep.2004.08.030 |
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Akhtari, E., Raisi, F., Keshavarz, M., Hosseini, H., Sohrabvand, F., Bioos, S., … Ghobadi, A. (2014). Tribulus Terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014: 22(40). DOI:  10.1186/2008-2231-22-40 |
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