Organic Tribulus Powder
Also known as: Tribulus terrestris L., Puncture vine, Goathead, Caltrop, Tribulus terrestris
Overview
Tribulus terrestris is a flowering plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for libido enhancement and urinary health. As a herbal supplement, it is categorized as an adaptogen and aphrodisiac. Modern applications focus on improving sexual function and athletic performance, although clinical evidence supporting these uses remains inconclusive. The plant's key compounds include steroidal saponins, primarily protodioscin, as well as flavonoids and alkaloids. While research on Tribulus terrestris is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted, high-quality systematic reviews are limited. Overall, the evidence quality is mixed, with animal studies showing more promising results than human trials, which often demonstrate minimal effects.
Benefits
The primary purported benefits of Tribulus terrestris include libido enhancement, potentially through nitric oxide pathways. However, clinical evidence supporting this effect is conflicting. Systematic reviews have found no significant increase in testosterone levels in healthy humans. Secondary effects, such as improvements in body composition or power output for athletes, have not been substantiated in research. Animal studies have shown increased mating frequency and testosterone levels in rats, but these findings have not translated effectively to human trials. The effect size on testosterone in human trials is negligible, and there is insufficient evidence to support its standalone efficacy for erectile function.
How it works
Tribulus terrestris is thought to work primarily through the modulation of nitric oxide. Saponins present in the plant may enhance endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, potentially improving blood flow and related functions. Animal studies suggest that Tribulus terrestris may stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH) receptors, but this has not been confirmed in humans. The bioavailability of its active compounds is poorly characterized, although protodioscin metabolites may mediate some of its effects. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and how they translate to human physiology.
Side effects
Common side effects of Tribulus terrestris include gastrointestinal distress, with an incidence rate of 5-10%. Uncommon side effects may include headache and insomnia. Rare cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported. Tribulus terrestris may interact with P-glycoprotein substrates, potentially inhibiting their absorption. It may also have a synergistic effect with antidiabetic medications, potentially leading to hypoglycemia. Due to its potential uterotonic effects, Tribulus terrestris is contraindicated during pregnancy. Long-term safety has not been established, and caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking medications that may interact with its compounds.
Dosage
The typical dosage range for Tribulus terrestris is 500-1500mg daily, often using standardized extracts containing 45-60% saponins. It is recommended to divide the daily dose and take it with meals to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. The duration of use should be limited to ≤12 weeks, as long-term safety has not been well-established. While specific upper limits and safety thresholds have not been definitively determined, it is advisable to adhere to the recommended dosage range and consult with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
FAQs
Does Tribulus boost testosterone?
No, there is no consistent evidence in human studies that Tribulus terrestris significantly increases testosterone levels. Findings from animal studies do not reliably translate to clinical effects in humans.
Is Tribulus effective for erectile dysfunction?
There is insufficient evidence to support the use of Tribulus terrestris as a standalone treatment for erectile dysfunction. It may potentially be used as part of combination therapies under medical supervision.
Is Tribulus safe for athletes?
While Tribulus terrestris is generally WADA-compliant, there is no demonstrated evidence of ergogenic benefits. Athletes should be aware that it is unlikely to improve performance.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24559105/ – A systematic review of 11 studies found that Tribulus terrestris does not increase testosterone levels in humans. The review noted that animal studies showed some promise, but the results are unreliable for clinical extrapolation due to heterogeneous dosing (85-1500mg/day).
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/11/3969 – An RCT involving 14 athletes over 6 weeks found that Tribulus terrestris supplementation did not result in changes in testosterone levels, body composition, or performance. The study's limitations include a small sample size, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/tribulus-terrestris – A clinical review indicates that Tribulus terrestris may only be effective in combination therapies, with unproven standalone benefits. The review provides a comprehensive but narrative overview of the herb's uses and limitations in clinical settings.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/7/1275 – This article discusses the potential benefits of Tribulus terrestris, including its role in traditional medicine and its purported effects on libido and sexual function. It highlights the need for more rigorous clinical trials to confirm these effects and understand the underlying mechanisms of action.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7340557/ – This review explores the aphrodisiac properties of various plants, including Tribulus terrestris, and their potential mechanisms of action. It emphasizes the importance of considering both traditional uses and modern scientific evidence when evaluating the efficacy of these plants.
