Tribulus Terrestis
Also known as: Tribulus terrestris, Gokshura, Puncture Vine, Caltrop
Overview
Tribulus terrestris is a plant found in tropical and temperate regions, traditionally used for its diuretic, tonic, and aphrodisiac properties. It is marketed as a supplement to improve libido and athletic performance. The primary active compounds include sterol saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Research on Tribulus terrestris is ongoing, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy. The available evidence is generally low quality due to small sample sizes and inconsistent results. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, derived from different parts of the plant. While generally considered safe, potential users should be aware of the limited evidence supporting its purported benefits.
Benefits
Some studies suggest that Tribulus terrestris may improve sexual function in women, particularly postmenopausal women, with increases in Sexual Quotient Female Version (SQ-F) scores. However, this evidence is very low-certainty. There is limited evidence supporting its use for enhancing testosterone levels or athletic performance in humans. Potential benefits may be observed within a few months of supplementation, but effect sizes are generally small and not consistently significant across studies. More research is needed to confirm efficacy across different populations and to determine the clinical significance of observed effects.
How it works
The exact mechanisms of action of Tribulus terrestris are not fully understood. It may influence nitric oxide release and potentially affect hormone levels indirectly. It may interact with the endocrine system, though the evidence is not robust. The bioavailability of active compounds is not well-studied. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific biological pathways and molecular targets involved in its effects.
Side effects
Tribulus terrestris is generally considered safe, though side effects can occur. Abdominal cramps have been reported. Uncommon and rare side effects are not well-documented. Potential interactions with medications affecting blood pressure or blood sugar levels are possible, though not well-studied. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data. Caution is advised in individuals with diabetes or hypertension. Users should monitor for any adverse effects and discontinue use if they occur.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Tribulus terrestris is not established. Typical dosages range from 500-1000 mg per day, though efficacy is not well-documented. The maximum safe dose is also not established. There are no specific timing recommendations. Capsules or tablets are common forms. Absorption factors are not well-studied. No required cofactors have been established. Users should be aware of the lack of robust evidence supporting specific dosage recommendations.
FAQs
Is Tribulus terrestris effective for increasing testosterone?
Evidence supporting the use of Tribulus terrestris for significantly increasing testosterone levels is limited and not consistently supported by research.
What are the potential side effects of Tribulus terrestris?
Common side effects may include abdominal cramps. It is generally considered safe, but users should monitor for any adverse effects and discontinue use if they occur.
How long does it take to see results from Tribulus terrestris?
Benefits, if present, may be observed within a few months of supplementation, but results are variable and not consistently significant across studies.
Is Tribulus terrestris safe for women?
Some studies suggest potential benefits for female sexual dysfunction, but more research is needed. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.
What is the recommended dosage for Tribulus terrestris?
Typical dosages range from 500-1000 mg per day, though efficacy is not well-documented. The minimum effective and maximum safe doses are not established.
Research Sources
- https://www.scielo.br/j/rbgo/a/j9q637hwJbhZDWPb8syg83w/ – This systematic review examined the effects of Tribulus terrestris on female sexual dysfunction. The review found very low-certainty evidence for improving sexual function in women, highlighting the need for more rigorous studies with larger sample sizes to confirm these findings. The limitations included small sample sizes and a risk of bias.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7277861/ – This comprehensive review highlights the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Tribulus terrestris. It emphasizes the variability in active compound content and the importance of standardization for consistent results. The review provides a broad overview of Tribulus terrestris properties but focuses more on phytochemical aspects rather than clinical efficacy.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9368143/ – This systematic review investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris on sport and health biomarkers in physically active adult males. The review found improvements in lipid profiles but no clear benefits on hormonal behavior. The study suggests that Tribulus terrestris may have some positive effects on certain biomarkers, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35954909/ – This study investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris on various health parameters. The results indicated some improvements in lipid profiles, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular health. However, the study also noted the need for further research to confirm these findings and to explore the underlying mechanisms.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24559105/ – This research explored the impact of Tribulus terrestris on hormonal behavior. The findings suggested limited effects on testosterone levels, indicating that its purported benefits for enhancing athletic performance may not be directly related to hormonal changes. The study highlights the complexity of Tribulus terrestris's effects and the need for further investigation.
