Tribulus Terrestris Uses, Benefits, Dosages & Side Effects

Tribulus terrestris is a taproot vining plant with a long history of medicinal use.

T. terrestris has been called various names throughout its history. Some of these include goat’s head, cat’s head, bullhead, devil’s thorn, caltrop, tackweed and puncture vine. [1]

It is used primarily for enhancing libido – a use which is supported by clinical research. It is also purported to increase testosterone production, but not all studies have observed a positive effect.

Some research suggests that this herb has a protective effect on the heart, liver, kidneys and other vital organs.

Tribulus terrestris also demonstrates antioxidant, antistress, anticancer and several other effects in in-vitro (cultured cell) and animal studies. However, human research has been very limited in the past. [1, 23]

This article will review the mechanisms of T. terrestris extract inside the body, its uses and possible health benefits, common dosage recommendations from herbalists, as well as possible side effects and interactions associated with it.

Tribulus Terrestris

Herbal Supplement

Men's Health

Libido

Erectile Function

How It Works:

• Supports sexual health and libido
• Promotes hormone balance
• Boosts energy and mood

Dosage:

Between 85 - 250 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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What is Tribulus used For?

Tribulus terrestris has been used for centuries in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine), Ayurveda and various other natural medicine systems. It is recommended for many purposes; especially for improving male vitality and virility. [1]

In traditional medicine, aside from its libido-enhancing uses, this herb has also been used for protecting and enhancing cardiovascular (heart and/or blood vessels) and urogenital (urinary system plus genitals) health. [1]

Research indicates that T. terrestris is a reliable and effective libido and sexual performance enhancer in both men and women. Although many people consider it a testosterone production booster; some clinical evidence seems to disagree. [1]

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that people use Tribulus terrestris for various health-enhancing purposes. Some of these include: [2]

• Spermatorrhea (excessive, involuntary ejaculation);
• Hypercholesterolemia (high serum cholesterol);
• Hypertension (high blood pressure);
• CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome);
• Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis);
• Vertigo (whirling sensations);

NMCD states that Tribulus is also used for gonorrhea, male impotence, painful urination, anemia (red blood cell deficiency) and angina (chest pains). It is also used for atopic dermatitis (eczema), leprosy, scabies, and an autoimmune skin disease called psoriasis.

Tribulus terrestris has also been used traditionally for cancer, hepatitis, diabetes, inflammation, colic, cough, flatulence and headache. It also used as a laxative, diuretic (increases urination), appetite stimulant, mood enhancer, astringent (contracts tissues), vermifuge (expels parasitic worms), and abortifactant (causes abortion). [2]

Many of these uses have not been studied in research trials. More research is needed to validate the majority of health claims made about his herbal extract.

Tribulus terrestris extract has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the treatment or prevention of any medical conditions.

Health Benefits

Tribulus is most commonly marketed as an ingredient in dietary supplements purported to promote libido, testosterone levels, muscle growth and male health.

There is limited research evidence into the effects of Tribulus terrestris in humans. However, more studies are being conducted as demand for this supplement increases.

In humans, this supplement is purported to increase libido in both genders. Placebo-controlled studies have shown that Tribulus makes both castrated and normal mice more sexually active. [3]

Some studies have suggested that Tribulus works more effectively for balancing hormones, normalizing ovulation and improving fertility than hormone replacement therapies. Some women claim that Tribulus alleviates various menopausal symptoms like mood swings, hot flashes and night sweats. [3]

Other studies have suggested that Tribulus works quickly to restore imbalanced hormone levels with results seen after only a few days of use. Tribulus is also purported to help aging individuals avoid developing impotence. This supplement might help those who want to remain sexually active as they age. [3]

One of the most common claims made about this herbal extract is that it can increase testosterone production in men with low levels. While it has been shown to weakly improve levels in infertile men, it does not appear to influence testosterone in healthy males.

According to Dr. Edward Group III, recent research has shown that Tribulus terrestris contributes to higher testosterone levels in men with low T. He says research shows that it can rejuvenate low sperm counts very effectively. [6]

Dr. Group says even though Tribulus works to normalize testosterone levels, it does not seem to cause excessive levels of this male sex hormone.

He says that Tribulus is considered an adaptogen in eastern medicine; meaning it helps to normalize bodily functioning on a holistic level. [6]

The Global Healing Center website states that balanced testosterone levels contribute to: [6]

• Enhanced stress management;
• Increased sexual satisfaction;
• Enhanced sexual function;
• Improved prostate health;
• Increased energy levels;
• Muscle development;
• Increased sex drive;
• More stable moods;
• Improved fertility;
• Improved sleep;
• Weight loss;

Dr. Group states, “Men suffering from low testosterone receive the greatest immediate impact from a supplement of, or including, Tribulus terrestris. It may also offer long-term prostate support for a man as he ages. Either way, with no observed side effects, it offers men a natural method to maintain testosterone levels… and physical, psychological and sexual health.”

Tribulus has been shown to supplement cardiovascular health, mainly by improving function in the circulatory system. The plant component tribulosin exhibits cardioprotective effects in in vitro studies,

By supporting circulatory function, this supplement may also indirectly promote detoxification, nutrient delivery, digestion and general wellness. Better delivery of blood throughout the body also directly affects the ability for a man to develop firm, lasting erections. [3]

Many bodybuilders and athletes use Tribulus terrestris supplements to enhance athletic performance. However, whether it works for this purpose remains unknown.

NMCD rates Tribulus as Possibly Ineffective for enhancing athletic performance and studies on power output, exercise-related fatigue, vigor and lean muscle mass do not show significant results at this time.

Plant Description

Tribulus terrestris is native to parts of Africa, Asia, Australia and Europe. It is now widely distributed in many regions of the world and is considered an invasive weed in the United States.

According to Illinois Wildflowers, T. terrestris: [4]

• Is a summer annual that develops a mat of prostrate stems about 1-3′ across;
• Forms green-then-brown stems covered in both long and short hairs;
• Develops evenly pinnate compound leaves with 4-8 leaflet pairs;
• Branches frequently at the base, and occasionally elsewhere;
• Develops 5-petal yellow flowers, about ½” in diameter;

In the autumn, the flowers are replaced by spiny, dry schizocarps. These 5-segmented fruits are about an inch long; and develop bumps, ridges and spines on their surfaces. Like the stems, the schizocarps begin green, and then turn brown. [4]

Each fruit contains several seeds, which drop to the ground to form plant colonies in favorable locations. Tribulus schizocarps are also very clingy.

They stick to shoelaces, pants, gloves and just about any other clothing, or hair/fur, they come in contact with. This helps the plant to distribute seeds to new locations that may be more suitable for colonization. [4]

How Does it Work Inside the Body?

Researchers are not exactly sure how Tribulus works in humans. However, evidence from in-vitro, animal and some human studies suggests various pharmacological properties.

According to NMCD, the chemical compounds in Tribulus of most interest to researchers are: [2]

• Steroidal saponin protodioscins: 5,6-dihydroprotodioscin and neoprotodioscin;
• Beta-carboline indoleamine alkaloids: harmane and norharmane;
• Flavonol glycosides;
• Flavonoids;

According to recent research from India, Tribulus terrestris has “diuretic, aphrodisiac, antiurolithic, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, absorption enhancing, hypolipidemic, cardiotonic, central nervous system, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, anticancer, antibacterial, anthelmintic, larvicidal, and anticariogenic activities”. [5]

Cardiovascular effects:

An aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris was shown to induce a strong stimulant effect on isolated, hypodynamic heart muscle tissue. Researchers think that glycoside constituents might act to increase the force of myocardial contractions.

One alcohol extract demonstrated hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering), muscarinic (parasympathetic regulation of cardiovascular function) and nicotinic (mimics acetylcholine (ACh)) actions. [2]

Hormonal effects:

Although some combination supplements that contain Tribulus have altered blood hormone levels, T. terrestris alone has not altered levels of LH (luteinizing hormone), androstenedione or testosterone. [2]

Steroidal saponin constituents in Tribulus terrestris have been shown to upregulate sperm production (spermatogenesis), and improved sperm viability in rats.

When used with a multivitamin supplement, a Tribulus-containing product called Tribestan® enhanced sperm motility (movement) in men with varicocele (enlarged scrotal veins).

In men with oligoasthenozoospermia (reduced sperm motility with low sperm count), Tribestan® improved sperm velocity.

Tribestan® had no effect on sperm parameters in men with cryptorchidism (lacking one or both testicles).

Anticancer effects:

Saponin constituents in Tribulus demonstrate cytotoxicity (poisonous to cells) against human SK-MEL malignant melanoma cells. In other human cell lines, Tribulus saponins decreased expression, and inhibited both growth and morphology.

According to NMCD, “Spirostanol-based steroidal saponins from tribulus exhibited remarkable activity against human malignant melanoma cell line (SK-MEL), human oral epidermoid carcinoma (KB), human breast ductal carcinoma (BT-549), and human ovary carcinoma (SK-OV-3).” [2]

This does not mean that using a Tribulus supplement has been shown to prevent cancer. There is a large difference between results obtained in in vitro samples versus results obtained from human clinical trials.

More research is needed to understand the potential effects of this herbal extract on cancer cells in humans.

Neurological effects:

Harmane and norharmane are two constituents found naturally in Tribulus that have been produced synthetically in laboratories. These constituents exhibit CNS (central nervous system) effects.

Subcutaneously-delivered manmade harmane causes limb paresis (weakness of voluntary movement), and other nervous effects in sheep.

In albino mice, T. terrestris demonstrates potent analgesic (pain relieving) activities. [2]

Antifungal effects:

NMCD states that steroidal saponin constituents in Tribulus “exhibited remarkable activity against the fungal organisms Candida albicans”. This is a type of yeast that commonly causes infection in the mouth, vagina, intestines, and possibly the skin and mucous membranes.

Tribulus terrestris also demonstrates strong activity against Cryptococcus neoformans; a microscopic fungus that attacks the respiratory tract, especially in those with compromised immune systems. [2]

Supplement Dosages

Tribulus is an ingredient in at least 837 dietary supplement products, according to the NMCD. It is available in tablets, capsules, powders, liquid extracts and other forms. [2]

It is a natural plant product; not an approved pharmaceutical drug. As such, there are no standardized dosage guidelines for it. However, there are various dosing recommendations reported from herbalists and other alternative healthcare practitioners.

According to Bodybuilding.com, “If Tribulus raises natural testosterone levels, its effects appear to be dose-specific. In other words, the delivery of active protodioscin seems to be effective only within a tight range. Too little or too much, and it doesn’t appear to work. The sweet spot seems to be consuming enough Tribulus so you get between 2.3 and 4.6 milligrams of protodioscin per pound of bodyweight per day.” [7]

Bodybuilding.com recommends that you should look for a Tribulus product that is standardized to “no less than 6% protodioscin and between 40% and 45% total saponins.” They also say the best supplements come from plants grown in Bulgaria, Macedonia or Turkey. [7]

NMCD states that in one study, doses between 85-250 mg/day were been used for general health-enhancing purposes in adults. The supplement used in this study contained a 40% furostanol saponins extract and was taken orally in 3 divided doses each day. [2]

In a different study, 3.21 mg/kg doses of Tribulus were administered for 8 weeks for exercise performance enhancement. [2]

NMCD states that there is insufficient evidence to rate the safety of Tribulus use in children. Until more is known, usage is children is not recommended. [2]

According to one source, for the best results with this supplement a regimented dosage schedule should be followed: [3]

• Take 3 oral doses daily of at least 750 mg, but not more than 1250 mg.
• Consume this dose daily for 9 weeks.
• Discontinue use for between 2 and 4 weeks.
• Resume usage for 9 weeks.

This cycle can be repeated indefinitely. Taking time off (cycling off) periodically is said to reduce the risk for developing adverse side effects.

Side Effects

NMCD reports that Tribulus terrestris is generally safe for most adults causing no serious or permanent side effects.

Some combination supplements containing Tribulus along with other ingredients have been reported to cause mild, temporary side effects in sensitive people. However, since these supplements contained a number of different ingredients it is not known whether the Tribulus contributed to adverse effects or if they were caused by the other ingredients. [2]

Some people report feeling unusually warm after taking this supplement. Other say they have difficulty falling asleep and feel restless. Tribulus is said to increase energy levels. It is recommended to take it early in the day and to engage in some physical activity during the day. [3]

Some people report that their heart rate increases when using this supplement. If you experience this adverse effect, it can be reversed in most cases by reducing the amount you are using. [3]

Drug Interactions

NMCD states that Tribulus terrestris can interact with the medication lithium. This herbal extract acts as a diuretic and can alter how the body retains lithium. Talk with your doctor about this combination and use caution if you are being treated for a medical condition with lithium. [2]

Tribulus supplements might interact with drugs and herbs that affect blood glucose levels. Seek medical advice and use caution if combining this product with antidiabetes medications including glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase) and others. [2]

Be careful using Tribulus along with herbs and supplements with hypoglycemic (blood glucose lowering) effects. Some of these include alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon, chromium, devil’s claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, psyllium, and Siberian ginseng. [2]

WebMD states that tribulus may also interact with hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) drugs, and possibly cause blood pressure to drop dangerously low.

Some of these include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), diltiazem (Cardizem), amlodipine (Norvasc), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), furosemide (Lasix) and many others. [8]

Some herbs and supplements with hypotensive mechanisms of action include andrographis, casein peptides, cat’s claw, coenzyme Q10, fish oil, L-arginine, lycium, stinging nettle and theanine. [2]

Before using Tribulus Terrestris to boost libido or support hormone balance, consult with a doctor to find out whether this supplement is appropriate for you.

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