Tribulus1
Tribulus terrestris L. (Tribulus) is a type of herb derived from the rujak polo plant. The part of the plant used is the leaves. Several studies have found that Tribulus has aphrodisiac effects that can stimulate sexual desire and contribute to hormonal health.2.4 Traditionally in Thailand, the herb is used as a diuretic.5
Morphology of Tribulus
The Tribulus plant has a finely hairy stem that branches out from a central point and can grow up to 2.4 m in length. Its leaves come in two sizes: large leaves up to 6 cm long with 6–8 pairs of leaflets, and small leaves up to 3.5 cm long with 3–4 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are small, elongated ovals (up to 15 × 5 mm) with a slightly slanted and rounded base; the upper surface is green and slightly hairy, while the lower surface is paler and more densely hairy. The flower stalks are 2–4 cm long, with sepals 3–5 mm and petals 3–12 mm in length, pale yellow in color.
Tribulus Active Compounds
The main component of Tribulus terrestris extract is a furostanol-type steroid saponin known as protodioscin.2
Health Benefits of Tribulus
Based on a literature review, there are several studies on the efficacy of Tribulus, including for:
- Aphrodisiac (Libido enhancer)
Protodiosin works by increasing levels of sex hormones such as LH and testosterone. In addition to boosting libido, this mechanism can also promote muscle growth, red blood cell production, and improve blood circulation.2
Literature Study:
- Subjects: 180 men aged 18-65 years
- Research dose: ×2 tablets of Tribulus terrestris dry extract (each tablet: 250 mg standardized to <112.5 mg furostanol saponins)
- Duration: 12 weeks.
- Results: The Tribulus group showed a significant increase in satisfaction scores, particularly regarding orgasmic function, sexual desire, and overall satisfaction.3
- Women's hormonal health
The compound protodioscin can serve as a natural precursor for the production of sex hormones such as androgens and estrogens. Protodioscin can also increase levels of LH, which can be converted into estrogen in the body. As such, protodioscin has the potential to support female reproductive function, boost libido, and help facilitate a smoother ovulation process.4
Literature Study:
- Subjects: 122 women with a diagnosis of PCOS
- Research dosage: 3 tablets of Tribulus extract/day (each tablet: 13.5 g aerial parts) + combination of other herbal tablets (Cinnamon, Licorice, St. John's Wort, Chinese Peony) & lifestyle improvements
- Duration: 90 days
- Dosage: There was significant improvement in menstrual cycle disorders, restoration of hormone secretion, body mass index (BMI), quality of life, reduction of depression, anxiety, and stress.4
Safety
Based on the results of the literature review, no serious side effects have been reported from the consumption of Tribulus at the recommended dosage, and study participants demonstrated good tolerability.3,4
Keywords: Tribulus terrestris L;Aphrodisiac; Libido Enhancer; Female Hormone Health; Protodioscin; Diuretik.
Footer References
- References
- Image: https://stock.adobe.com
- Sanagoo S, Sadeghzadeh Oskouei B, Gassab Abdollahi N, Salehi-Pourmehr H, Hazhir N, Farshbaf-Khalili A. Effect ofTribulus terrestris L. on sperm parameters in men with idiopathic infertility: A systematic review. Complement Ther Med. 2019; 42: 95-103. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.09.015
- [ PubMed ] Kamenov Z, Fileva S, Kalinov K, Jannini EA. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Tribulus terrestris in male sexual dysfunction-A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Maturity. 2017;99:20-26. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2017.01.011
- Ghanbari A, Akhshi N, Nedaei SE, et al.Tribulus terrestris and female reproductive system health: A comprehensive review. Phytomedicine. 2021;84:153462. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153462.
