Tribulus terrestris: Benefits & Side Effects

What is Tribulus terrestris?

Tribulus terrestris is a plant found in the Mediterranean, but also in many Asian countries. It is characterized by small fruits, covered with thorns, which need special attention. Traditionally, it is used in various ailments and health conditions, thanks to the steroidal saponins and flavonoids it contains.

Properties

For many years, tribulus has been used in the traditional medicine of many countries, including China and India, for (1):

• urinary tract health
• libido enhancement
• diabetes management
• fertility problems
• reducing inflammation and pain
• cardiovascular diseases
• stomach disorders
• vision problems

More recently, Tribulus terrestris has appeared as an ingredient in many nutritional supplements, and there are not a few who use it to enhance their athletic performance, sexual performance, fertility, but also as an aid in body building. In fact, it has gained the reputation of being among the herbs for increasing testosterone. However, experts’ opinions differ on the above.

Let’s see what is true based on studies:

1. Increases libido in men & women

If there’s one thing tribulus is known for, it’s its positive effect on libido! In fact, many studies have been conducted showing that taking Tribulus terrestris for 2-3 months increased libido in both men and women. More specifically, sexual desire rose by 79% in men who took 750-1500mg of tribulus daily for 2 months, and by 67% in women with low libido who took 500-1500mg for 90 days. (2)

However, its positive effects are more evident in people who are dealing with some form of sexual dysfunction.(1) For example, it seems to work well in pre- and post-menopausal women who experience decreased sexual desire. (3)

2. Improves fertility

In general, tribulus appears to improve the body’s reproductive processes in both men and women (4)! In fact, research shows that it has a beneficial effect on sperm quality in men with idiopathic infertility.(5)

However, it is important to emphasize that most research does not support that it can increase testosterone levels.

3. Helps regulate diabetes

Tribulus appears to lower blood glucose levels. In fact, a study in which 98 women with type 2 diabetes took part and received 1000 mg of Tribulus daily for 3 months, showed that glucose and cholesterol levels were significantly reduced.(2)

However, if you are already being treated for diabetes you should consult your doctor as it may interact with medications.(8)

4. It has a diuretic effect

This herb also appears to have diuretic properties, increasing urine production, as well as possible anti-inflammatory action. Tribulus has traditionally been used for kidney stones removal and urinary health in general.

However, opinions differ on its effect on prostate health, as some studies claim that it can have a positive effect when combined with other herbs (2), while others that it can have a negative effect by increasing PSA levels. That is why its use in such cases should be done sparingly, and after medical advice.

5. Does not appear to enhance athletic performance

Although more research is needed, the results so far show that tribulus has no significant effect on muscle strength and athletic performance in young athletes who took the herb for 5 to 8 weeks.(2 )

Furthermore, a recent systematic review on the effects of Tribulus terrestris in physical active adult men showed that although there were improvements in the lipid profile as well as markers of inflammation, it did not appear to have any beneficial effect on markers of muscle damage and hormones.(6)

Method of use & Dosage

Tribulus can easily be found in various forms, such as dried leaves, powder, but also as a key ingredient in many dietary supplements.

In general, the dose should be determined by a specialist to avoid the risk of toxicity. Some general guidelines for taking it are (8):

• In capsule form: 250-1500mg/day for up to 3 months.
• In powder form: 1 c.c. dissolved in natural juice or warm water. The recommended dose ranges from 0.5-3g of powder per day.

Side effects

Research so far shows that tribulus supplements are mostly safe, while rarely noted(7):

• stomach disorders
• insomnia
• irregular period in women

In case men have prostate problems, they should talk to the specialist who is watching them, since as we mentioned, the opinions on the matter differ.

Also, it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Tribulus is certainly a herb with special properties, which has been used for centuries in the different lengths and widths of the earth. However, like all herbs, caution is needed, especially if you are on medication or have a health problem.

Sources

1. Kamal Patel (2023). Tribulus Terrestris. https://examine.com/supplements/tribulus-terrestris/
2. Grant Tinsley (2023). Does Tribulus Terrestris Really Work? An Evidence-Based Look. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tribulus-terrestris
3. Karla Zanolla Dias de Souza et al(2016). Efficacy of Tribulus terrestris for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in postmenopausal women: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27760089/
4. A V Sirotkin et al. (2021). Puncture vine (Tribulus Terrestris L.) in control of health and reproduction. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35199550/
5. Heitor O Santos et al. (2019). Beyond tribulus (Tribulus terrestris L.): The effects of phytotherapics on testosterone, sperm and prostate parameters. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30790614/
6. Int J Environ Res Public Health (2022). Effects of Tribulus terrestris L. on Sport and Health Biomarkers in Physically Active Adult Males: A Systematic Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9368143/
7. Melinda Ratini, DO (2023) Tribulus Terrestris https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/tribulus-terrestris-uses-and-risks
8. Manuel Reis (2023). Tribulus terrestris: Health Benefits, Dose & Side Effects. https://www.tuasaude.com/en/tribulus-terrestris/