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Proprietary Tribulus Blend

Also known as: Puncture Vine, Goat's Head, Devil's Thorn, Tribulus, *Tribulus terrestris*

Overview

*Tribulus terrestris* is a dicotyledonous herbal plant from the Zygophyllaceae family, native to regions in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its aerial parts and fruits have been utilized in traditional medicine for their diuretic, tonic, and aphrodisiac properties. Commonly adopted by athletes and bodybuilders, *Tribulus* is often claimed to enhance testosterone levels, although substantial scientific support for this claim remains lacking. Additionally, it is suggested for female sexual dysfunction and to improve fertility-related parameters. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, with moderate research maturity highlighting its complex effects on sexual and reproductive health, although the quality of evidence gathered from studies varies significantly.

Benefits

The evidence-based benefits of *Tribulus terrestris* include: 1. **Testosterone Levels**: Numerous systematic reviews indicate that there is insufficient evidence to confirm that it increases testosterone levels in humans. 2. **Female Sexual Function**: Some reviews suggest potential improvement in sexual function scores for premenopausal and postmenopausal women, though evidence certainty is deemed very low, highlighting a notable increase in FSFI scores in various studies. 3. **Fertility Parameters**: A meta-analysis evidences improved sperm concentration and motility in both animal and human subjects. However, these findings show moderate certainty regarding sperm parameters, while hormonal improvements remain low in certainty. Overall, the clinical significance of these benefits remains uncertain, emphasizing the need for further research.

How it works

The precise mechanism of action of *Tribulus terrestris* is not thoroughly defined; however, it is believed to enhance nitric oxide release, which may contribute to vasodilation and improved blood flow. While some studies suggest potential modulation of hormone levels, this is not consistently supported. Interaction with reproductive and cardiovascular systems is suggested, but specific molecular targets remain poorly understood.

Side effects

Generally regarded as safe when used in recommended doses, *Tribulus terrestris* has no well-documented common, uncommon, or rare side effects according to available literature. There is limited research on drug interactions, however, precaution should be taken when combining with other medications. It is advised that pregnant and breastfeeding women exercise caution due to the insufficient evidence regarding safety and efficacy in these populations. Special considerations arise for children, where use is not recommended, again due to inadequate research. Overall, while adverse effects are not prominently documented, thorough safety profiles remain elusive and warrant careful usage.

Dosage

Typical dosages of *Tribulus terrestris* range from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day, although there is no clear optimal dosage established. Variability in how different studies approach dosing adds complexity, and recommendations regarding specific timing or administration protocols are largely absent. While doses above 2000 mg per day are rarely studied, no established maximum safe dose has been identified. The supplement is available in various forms including capsules, tablets, and powders, though no particular form has been determined as more effective than others.

FAQs

Is *Tribulus terrestris* safe to use?

Generally considered safe, but long-term safety and potential interactions with medications are not well-studied.

How should I take *Tribulus terrestris*?

No specific timing or administration protocols are recommended; typical dosages range from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day.

What effects can I expect from *Tribulus terrestris*?

Users may see improvements in sexual function or fertility parameters, but evidence supporting these claims is low in certainty.

Is it true that *Tribulus terrestris* increases testosterone levels?

A common misconception; evidence does not support a significant increase in testosterone levels in humans.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24559105/ – This systematic review evaluated 11 studies regarding the effect of *Tribulus terrestris* on testosterone levels in humans and found no significant increases.
https://www.scielo.br/j/rbgo/a/j9q637hwJbhZDWPb8syg83w/ – In this systematic review of 5 RCTs, significant increases in sexual function scores were noted in women using *Tribulus terrestris*, though the evidence was classified as very low certainty.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/7118431 – A meta-analysis examined 30 studies showing significant improvements in sperm concentration and motility with *Tribulus terrestris*, though results for hormonal effects were less certain.