Organic Tribulus Extract
Also known as: Tribulus terrestris L., Puncture vine, Gokshura, Caltrop, Organic Tribulus Extract, Tribulus terrestris
Overview
Tribulus terrestris, commonly known as puncture vine, is an annual plant whose extract is used as a herbal supplement. It contains bioactive saponins, primarily protodioscin, along with flavonoids and alkaloids. Traditionally, it has been used as an adaptogen and to enhance libido and vitality. Research on Tribulus terrestris is still emerging, with limited high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs). While preclinical studies show promise, human clinical data is mixed, particularly regarding testosterone levels and sexual function. The extract is available in various forms, with liposomal delivery recommended to enhance saponin bioavailability. It is sourced from the Tribulus terrestris plant.
Benefits
Tribulus terrestris is associated with several potential benefits, although the strength of evidence varies. It may improve erectile function through nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation, with some studies showing small to moderate effects in subpopulations with mild erectile dysfunction. However, studies on exercise performance, such as in CrossFit athletes, have shown no significant improvement. Preclinical (rodent) data suggests neuroprotective effects, including a reduction in infarction volume in stroke models and anti-inflammatory properties, such as reducing TNF-α and IL-6 levels in brain tissue. Clinical significance is primarily focused on sexual health, but more robust human trials are needed to confirm these effects.
How it works
Tribulus terrestris is believed to exert its effects through several mechanisms. It modulates nitric oxide, leading to vasodilation via endothelial NO release, which can improve erectile function. The extract also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, as shown in preclinical studies. In vitro studies suggest it may interact with androgen receptors, but this has not been confirmed in humans. A significant limitation is the poor oral absorption of saponins, the key bioactive compounds, which necessitates the use of delivery enhancers like liposomal formulations to improve bioavailability.
Side effects
Common side effects of Tribulus terrestris include gastrointestinal distress, such as stomach upset, which occurs in approximately 6-8% of users at dosages of 750-1,500mg per day. Less common side effects include headaches and restlessness. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential uterotonic effects and should be avoided by individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers. Tribulus terrestris may interact with antihypertensive medications, potentially leading to additive hypotensive effects, and with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding. Due to limited long-term safety data, caution is advised, and cycling use is recommended.
Dosage
For libido support, a recommended dosage is 250-750mg of a standardized extract containing at least 40% saponins. For acute effects, such as before sexual activity, a dose can be taken 30-60 minutes prior. For chronic use, it is advised to cycle the supplement, using it for 8-12 weeks followed by a 4-week break. Liposomal delivery is recommended to enhance the bioavailability of saponins. While specific upper limits are not well-defined, exceeding recommended dosages may increase the risk of side effects. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.
FAQs
Does it boost testosterone?
Systematic reviews indicate that Tribulus terrestris does not significantly increase testosterone levels in healthy humans. Animal studies have shown inconclusive results.
How long until effects?
Improvements in sexual function may be noticeable within 4-8 weeks, although data is heterogeneous. Individual responses can vary.
Safe for long-term use?
Limited safety data exists beyond 12 weeks of continuous use. Cycling the supplement is recommended to mitigate potential risks.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24559105/ – A systematic review of 11 studies found no significant increase in testosterone levels in humans with Tribulus terrestris supplementation. Animal data was inconclusive. The review highlighted the heterogeneity in dosing (250-1,500mg) and formulations as limitations.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/7/1275 – A systematic review focusing on sexual function found mixed efficacy of Tribulus terrestris, with improvements in the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) observed in 3 out of 5 RCTs. The review noted limitations such as small sample sizes (n=20-80) and short study durations (4-12 weeks).
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7340557/ – This article discusses the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of Tribulus terrestris. It highlights its use in traditional medicine for various conditions, including sexual dysfunction and inflammation, and reviews the scientific evidence supporting these uses.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/11/3969 – This study investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris on exercise performance in CrossFit athletes. The results showed no significant improvement in performance metrics after 6 weeks of supplementation, suggesting limited benefits for exercise performance in this population.
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.2c06625 – A preclinical study using a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model found that Tribulus terrestris reduced TNF-α levels by 29% via TLR4 pathway inhibition. This suggests potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, although human translation data is lacking.
