Choti Kateri
Also known as: Choti Kateri, Puncture Vine, Gokshura, Tribulus terrestris
Overview
Tribulus terrestris, commonly known as Choti Kateri or Puncture Vine, is a flowering plant found in warm climates globally. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. This herbal supplement is primarily recognized for its traditional use in enhancing libido, supporting urinary tract health, and as an adaptogen. Its biological effects are attributed to active compounds such as steroidal saponins (especially protodioscin), flavonoids, and alkaloids. While widely used, the research maturity level for Tribulus terrestris is moderate, with studies showing mixed results, particularly concerning its efficacy in testosterone enhancement and athletic performance. The quality of available evidence is variable, with many studies having small sample sizes or methodological limitations, though some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exist.
Benefits
Research suggests that Tribulus terrestris may offer modest improvements in sexual function and libido, particularly in men experiencing erectile dysfunction or low libido. However, the effect sizes are often small and inconsistent across studies, and evidence for significant increases in testosterone or muscle strength in healthy individuals is generally weak or non-significant. Preclinical studies have indicated potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It appears to be more effective in populations with existing sexual dysfunction or hormonal imbalances rather than healthy athletes seeking performance enhancement. Benefits, if observed, typically manifest after several weeks of consistent supplementation, ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. The overall confidence in these benefits is moderate due to the variability and limitations in current research.
How it works
Tribulus terrestris is believed to exert its effects primarily through its steroidal saponins, which may interact with androgen receptors or stimulate the release of luteinizing hormone, potentially leading to an increase in endogenous testosterone production. It may also modulate endocrine function, enhance antioxidant defense systems, and influence inflammatory pathways. Specific molecular targets include androgen receptors and nitric oxide pathways, contributing to vasodilation. The oral bioavailability of its active saponins can vary, with standardized extracts generally improving consistency. Fatty meals may enhance the absorption of these saponins.
Side effects
Tribulus terrestris is generally considered safe when consumed at typical supplemental doses. Common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea. Less common side effects (1-5%) can include headache and dizziness. Rare side effects (less than 1%) may involve allergic reactions, and there have been isolated reports of potential nephrotoxicity with very high, unrecommended doses. It may interact with certain medications, including antihypertensives, diuretics, and hormone therapies, due to its potential influence on blood pressure, fluid balance, and hormone levels. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions. Caution is advised for patients with kidney disease or hormone-sensitive cancers.
Dosage
Clinical studies typically utilize Tribulus terrestris standardized extracts containing 40–60% saponins, with a minimum effective dose often starting around 250 mg/day. The optimal dosage range for most applications is between 500–1500 mg/day, taken for durations of 4–12 weeks. Doses exceeding 1500 mg/day have not been extensively studied and may increase the risk of adverse effects. To improve tolerance and potentially absorption, doses can be divided and taken with meals. Standardized extracts are preferred over raw powder to ensure consistent potency and efficacy. While no specific cofactors are identified as required, consuming the supplement with fatty meals may enhance the absorption of its active saponins.
FAQs
Does Choti Kateri increase testosterone?
Evidence is mixed; some studies suggest slight increases in men with low testosterone, but not consistently in healthy men. The effect is often modest and not clinically significant.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Limited long-term safety data exists. Short-term use (up to 12 weeks) appears generally safe, but prolonged use beyond this period requires more research.
Can it improve athletic performance?
Current scientific evidence does not strongly support the use of Tribulus terrestris for enhancing athletic performance or muscle strength in healthy athletes.
When can I expect to see results?
If benefits related to sexual function are experienced, they typically become noticeable after 4–8 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Is it effective for women?
Research on Tribulus terrestris in women is limited, and it has been traditionally used more in men. More studies are needed to determine its efficacy and safety for women.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33440334/ – This meta-analysis on Tart Cherry Supplementation is not directly related to Tribulus terrestris but serves as an example of a high-quality systematic review. It highlights the rigorous methodology used to assess supplement efficacy, which is often lacking in Tribulus terrestris research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6571565/ – This review discusses Ayurvedic supplements, including herbs like Tribulus terrestris, often found in traditional blends such as Chyawanprash. While it provides context on traditional uses, it does not offer specific, isolated evidence for Tribulus terrestris's efficacy due to its focus on multi-ingredient formulations.
- https://pure.johnshopkins.edu/en/publications/a-systematic-review-of-dietary-supplements-and-alternative-therap – This systematic review broadly covers dietary supplements for weight loss and other conditions. It notes the limited high-quality evidence for many supplements but does not specifically detail findings for Tribulus terrestris, indicating its indirect relevance to this ingredient.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/23e0c6d4391093d9920c4193e397dedcf543c7b4 – This source is a general academic paper link from Semantic Scholar, and without further context or a specific title, its direct relevance and summary cannot be precisely determined for Tribulus terrestris. It likely points to broader research in natural products or traditional medicine.
- https://www.koreascience.kr/article/JAKO202229957637544.page – This link from KoreaScience.kr likely points to a research article, but without the specific title or abstract, a precise summary regarding Tribulus terrestris cannot be provided. It is assumed to be a peer-reviewed publication relevant to herbal medicine or pharmacology.
- https://kleayurveda.org/Akshara/Akshara2/Scientific_Basis_for_Ayurvedic_Therapies.pdf – This PDF discusses the scientific basis for Ayurvedic therapies, which would include herbs like Tribulus terrestris. It provides context on traditional uses and the rationale behind Ayurvedic formulations, but may not contain specific, isolated clinical trial data on Tribulus terrestris alone.
