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Gokshura Extract

Also known as: Tribulus terrestris L., Gokshura, Puncture vine, Bindii, Tribulus terrestris

Overview

Gokshura extract, derived from the plant *Tribulus terrestris*, is a traditional medicine widely used for its purported diuretic, aphrodisiac, and fertility-enhancing properties. It is marketed as a supplement for sexual health, athletic performance, and general vitality. The plant belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. Active compounds include steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Research on *Tribulus terrestris* has been growing, with a mixture of animal and human studies. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been conducted, but conclusive clinical recommendations are limited due to study design variability and small sample sizes. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, often standardized to saponin content.

Benefits

- **Male Fertility and Sexual Function:** A 2023 meta-analysis found significant improvements in sperm concentration and motility in men. However, effects on testosterone and other hormone levels were inconsistent. The evidence suggests a modest benefit, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. - **Female Sexual Dysfunction:** A systematic review indicated that *Tribulus terrestris* may improve sexual function scores in premenopausal and postmenopausal women and increase serum testosterone levels in premenopausal women. However, the certainty of evidence was very low due to small sample sizes and study heterogeneity. - **Physical Performance and Health Biomarkers:** A systematic review of studies on physically active adults found moderate beneficial effects on lipid profiles and some inflammatory and hematological biomarkers but no clear effects on muscle damage markers, hormonal behavior, or immune response. No toxicity was reported. - **Other Effects:** Evidence for diuretic, analeptic, or other traditional uses remains anecdotal or insufficiently studied in high-quality trials.

How it works

The active compounds in *Tribulus terrestris*, including steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, are believed to contribute to its effects. Proposed mechanisms involve modulation of androgen receptors, enhancement of nitric oxide synthesis, and antioxidant activity, which may underlie improvements in sperm parameters and sexual function. The exact molecular targets and pathways remain incompletely understood, and hormonal effects are inconsistent across studies. Bioavailability of active saponins varies by extract preparation and dosage.

Side effects

Overall, *Tribulus terrestris* supplementation appears safe, with no serious adverse events reported in reviewed RCTs and systematic reviews. Common side effects are not well documented but appear minimal. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established, though caution is advised in hormone-sensitive conditions due to potential androgenic effects. Special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women have not been adequately studied. Due to the limited research, the long-term safety profile is not well-established, and users should be aware of potential unknown risks.

Dosage

Doses in clinical studies vary widely, typically ranging from 250 mg to 1500 mg daily of standardized extract, often standardized to saponin content. Optimal dosing for specific outcomes (e.g., fertility, sexual function) is not well established due to heterogeneity in study protocols. Duration of supplementation in studies ranges from 1 to 3 months for sexual function and fertility outcomes. Timing relative to meals or exercise is not standardized. It is crucial to follow product label instructions and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage.

FAQs

Is Gokshura extract effective for male fertility?

Evidence suggests modest improvements in sperm concentration and motility, but effects on hormone levels are unclear. More research is needed to confirm these findings.

Can it help female sexual dysfunction?

Some low-certainty evidence indicates potential benefit, but more robust trials are needed to confirm these effects.

Is it safe to use long-term?

Short-term use appears safe based on available studies; however, long-term safety data are currently lacking. Consult with a healthcare provider before prolonged use.

Does it improve athletic performance?

Current evidence does not support clear benefits on muscle damage or hormonal markers related to athletic performance.

Are there any known drug interactions?

No well-documented interactions have been reported, but caution is advised in hormone-sensitive conditions due to potential androgenic effects.

Research Sources

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7118431 – This meta-analysis included 30 studies on humans and rodents, pooling 133 human subjects. It found significant improvements in sperm concentration and motility but nonsignificant hormonal changes. The limitations include heterogeneity in dosage, duration, and study quality, and no meta-analysis was possible on some outcomes due to variability.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9368143/ – This systematic review examined studies on physically active adults and found moderate improvements in lipid and inflammatory markers but no significant hormonal or immune benefits. No toxicity was reported, but the review was limited by the small number of studies and methodological differences.
https://www.scielo.br/j/rbgo/a/j9q637hwJbhZDWPb8syg83w/ – This systematic review included 5 RCTs (n=279) and showed improved sexual function scores and increased testosterone in premenopausal women. The certainty of evidence was very low due to small sample sizes and heterogeneity, and no meta-analysis was conducted. No serious adverse events were reported.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24559105/ – This study investigates the saponins found in Tribulus terrestris and their potential health benefits. It highlights the importance of understanding the specific saponin composition in different extracts to better understand their effects.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/11/3969 – This research explores the potential of Tribulus terrestris as a functional food ingredient. It discusses its traditional uses and the scientific evidence supporting its various health benefits, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand its mechanisms of action.