Tribulus terrestris is a flowering wild plant with numerous traditional medicinal purposes. Laboratory and animal research has focused on a narrow range of these uses, as noted by physician and medical writer Ray Sahelian. The herbal extract is mainly taken by men for increasing sex drive and building lean muscle mass. Consult a qualified health care provider before beginning any herbal therapy.
Identification
Tribulus terrestris grows naturally throughout most continents, and is usually considered a pesky weed. Thriving on roadsides and vacant lots, tribulus has sharp spines that account for its nickname "puncture vine." The plant has a long-standing role in traditional medicine in Greece, China and India, according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Possible Uses
Common uses of tribulus involve increasing sex drive, treating erectile dysfunction, increasing fertility, relieving urinary tract problems and building muscle mass, according to the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Animal research published in the Jan. 25, 2008 issue of "Phytomedicine" indicated its potential for treating mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction. Although the herb is promoted for producing gains in lean muscle mass and strength, a study that appeared in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" in May 2007 did not support this claim. Tribulus extract may lower blood pressure and help treat angina, which is chest pain resulting from lack of blood flow to the heart, according to eMedTV.
Types
Liquid extracts are more concentrated than tinctures, typically containing equal parts herbal ingredients and base liquid. Dry extracts usually are more concentrated than liquid and are available in pills and capsules. A standardized extract typically is considered a higher-quality product, as it contains a guaranteed specific amount of an active component. Sahelian explains that tribulus is often combined with other aphrodisiac herbs such as avena sativa, catuaba, ginseng, horny goat weed, tongkat ali and yohimbe.
How It Works
Animal research indicates tribulus may work by increasing levels of hormones, including testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, according to eMedTV. For erectile dysfunction, another possible effect of tribulus is relaxing smooth muscle and increasing blood flow. For treating angina, tribulus may help relax the arteries of the heart, and the herb may reduce blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzymes, similar to blood pressure medications called ACE inhibitors, according to eMedTV. The herb also may have a diuretic effect, and an increase in urine production may be beneficial for some urinary tract disorders, explains eMedTV.
Side Effects
No significant side effects are associated with tribulus, according to eMedTV, but the site cautions that research is lacking. Some individuals may experience a slightly faster heartbeat, restlessness and feelings of warmth, more common with higher doses. Tribulus may cause extra sensitivity to sunlight, which could increase the risk of sunburn. As with any herbal remedy, some people may be allergic to tribulus extract, cautions the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Signs of an allergic reaction could include difficulty breathing, tightness in the throat or chest, a rash, hives, itchy skin or unexplained swelling. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take tribulus since it may have hormonal effects.
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