Summary

Tribulus terrestris is used as a main constituent for synthesis of many medicines and food supplements, where it has been associated with being a therapeutic agent for the cardiovascular system and immune system [1].

How does Tribulus terrestris work

Tribulus terrestris contains many important compounds, such as steroids, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and glutamic acid [2].

Extracts of tribulus are known to contain antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-hypertension, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer and anti-fungal properties [3].

Benefits and Effects

Tribulus has a traditional history of use in for problems linked to the musculoskeletal, urogenital, gastrointestinal and central nervous systems [2]. Tribulus is also known to contain antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects [2].

Tribulus terrestris depression

A 400mg dose of methanol extract of tribulus was shown to have anti-depressant properties; this was highlighted through the restoration of antioxidants such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondealdehyde [4].

Tribulus terrestris blood pressure

Tribulus has been documented as treating high blood pressure [5]. Dry, aqueous tribulus extracts – dosage of 500mg of capsule form – were administered to patients suffering from Grade I essential hypertension [6].

Tribulus terrestris libido

Work seeking to better describe the efficacy of tribulus on sex hormones to grasp tribulus’s possible usefulness in treating erectile dysfunction (ED), demonstrated an increase in testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) [7].

Tribulus for men and women

Tribulus has also been reported to induce sexual arousal and desire in women [8]. A qualitative/quantitative study addressed the role of tribulus terrestris in treating female sexual dysfunction and found increased levels of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), along with decreases in serum and free testosterone [9].

Tribulus terrestris kidney stones

Tribulus extract has been shown to inhibit the growth of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals [10]. Calcium oxalate crystals occur when there is a disproportionate ratio of urine waste to liquid. Another in vivo study addressed tribulus’ effect in renal tissue after induction of hyperoxaluria [11].

Tribulus and tongkat ali

Tongkat ali is said to possess anti-stress and anti-disease properties, and to improve physical strength [12].

Side effects of Tribulus terrestris

Although safety has been reported in the use of tribulus extract, there has been one reported case who after consuming tribulus terrestris showed acute kidney injury, hepatitis and seizure [13].

Also, studies on tribulus’ impact on atheletes confirmed that although tribulus had extra physiological benefits, it did have a negative effect on red blood cells, haemoglobin and thrombocyte indicies [14].

Tribulus dosage

Capsule (625mg powder), 3 times a day for 20 days – was reported as statistically increasing physical power in athletes [14]. In addition, it has been found that blood testosterone levels increased after 10 days of experimental administration of tribulus [Milasius et al., 2009], along with anaerobic alactic glycolytic power increases. [9].

Safe doses of tribulus in concentrations of 4mL per kg, have been found in 28-day long toxicity studies – no changes were noticed on biochemical, haematological and histological parameters [15].