Gokhshur
Also known as: Gokhshur, Gokhru, Puncture vine, Devil’s Thorn, Goathead, Nature’s Viagra, Tribulus terrestris
Overview
Tribulus terrestris, commonly known as Gokhshur, is a perennial plant widely utilized in traditional Indian (Ayurveda) and Chinese medicine. It is primarily valued for its purported effects on the urinary and reproductive systems, serving as a diuretic, aphrodisiac, and profertility agent. The plant is characterized by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential hormonal modulating properties. While its traditional uses are extensive, the scientific research on Gokhshur is of moderate maturity, with an increasing number of randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. However, the overall quality of evidence varies, and more high-quality studies are needed to conclusively confirm many of its traditional claims. The active compounds, particularly steroidal saponins like protodioscin, are believed to be responsible for its biological activities.
Benefits
Gokhshur shows moderate evidence for improving male fertility parameters. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of 30 studies (human and rodent) indicated significant improvements in sperm concentration (SMD = 0.624) and sperm motility (SMD = 0.742) in humans, suggesting a beneficial effect on male fertility. However, effects on testosterone and luteinizing hormone were non-significant. Some research suggests potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, with preliminary evidence for improved blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes, though these findings require further high-quality randomized controlled trials for confirmation. Animal studies have indicated diuretic effects and improved kidney function, but human data are currently insufficient to support these claims. Conversely, a 6-week randomized controlled trial in CrossFit athletes found no significant improvements in body composition, hormonal response, or physical performance, suggesting limited ergogenic effects in athletic populations.
How it works
The primary bioactive compounds in Tribulus terrestris are steroidal saponins, particularly protodioscin, along with flavonoids and alkaloids. Steroidal saponins are thought to modulate androgen receptors, thereby influencing spermatogenesis and libido. The proposed mechanism for its pro-fertility effects involves the stimulation of luteinizing hormone (LH) release, which in turn may lead to increased testosterone production, although human studies on hormonal changes have yielded inconsistent results. Its antioxidant effects are likely attributed to flavonoids, which scavenge free radicals. The diuretic properties may involve modulation of renal function, though the precise pathways remain unclear. The efficacy and absorption of Gokhshur depend on the standardization of the extract, with saponins considered the main active constituents.
Side effects
Tribulus terrestris is generally considered safe when consumed at recommended doses. Mild side effects reported include stomach upset, diarrhea, and headache. There are rare reports of hepatotoxicity (liver injury) and renal injury associated with its use, but a conclusive link has not been established in humans. Animal studies, however, have shown potential liver toxicity at very high doses, possibly due to steroidal sapogenins forming bile duct crystals. Therefore, caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing liver disease or cirrhosis. Specific drug interactions are not well characterized, but due to its potential effects on hormones and kidney function, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use, especially for individuals on medication or with underlying health conditions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its use due to insufficient safety data.
Dosage
Dosage recommendations for Tribulus terrestris vary widely across clinical trials, typically ranging from 250 mg to 1500 mg daily of standardized extracts. There is no established maximum safe dose, and higher doses may increase the risk of adverse effects. The timing of administration and the form of the extract (e.g., aqueous extract versus standardized saponin extract) can influence efficacy and absorption, but more research is needed to define optimal parameters. For male fertility, studies often assess improvements after 8-12 weeks of consistent use. It is crucial to follow product-specific instructions and consult a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate and safe dosage, especially given the variability in extract standardization and individual responses.
FAQs
Is Gokhshur effective for male fertility?
Evidence suggests moderate improvement in sperm concentration and motility, but its effects on testosterone levels are inconsistent across studies.
Is Gokhshur safe to use?
Generally safe at recommended doses. Rare cases of liver or kidney issues have been reported, particularly at high doses or in vulnerable individuals.
Does Gokhshur improve athletic performance?
Current randomized controlled trials do not support significant benefits for body composition, hormonal response, or athletic performance in healthy individuals.
How quickly do benefits appear?
Studies typically range from 4 to 12 weeks. Improvements in fertility parameters are often assessed after 8-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8623187/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Tribulus terrestris. It suggested potential benefits in these areas and some evidence for improved blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the need for further high-quality RCTs to confirm these findings.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK583201/ – This review from LiverTox NCBI examines case reports of hepatotoxicity related to herbal supplements, including Tribulus terrestris. It concludes that there is no convincing evidence of human hepatotoxicity, though animal studies show potential liver toxicity at high doses, highlighting the need for caution.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7118431 – This systematic review and meta-analysis, including 30 studies, found that Tribulus terrestris significantly improved sperm concentration and motility in humans, indicating a moderate beneficial effect on male fertility parameters. However, it noted non-significant increases in testosterone and LH, and non-significant decreases in FSH.
- https://journaljpri.com/index.php/JPRI/article/view/5986 – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris on CrossFit athletes over 6 weeks. The study found no significant improvements in body composition, hormonal response, or athletic performance, suggesting limited ergogenic effects in this population.
