There are lots of plants that have ample uses for the medical sphere owing to their various properties. One such plant is Tribulus Terrestris which is a sort of weed. It is a very important plant that is grown in colder climates. The plant can thrive even in extreme deserts.
Tribulus Terrestris is quite renowned among athletes as it increases endurance to a great extent. The plant originated about 3000 years ago. During those times, it was used to combat liver and kidney diseases. The plant is originally found in Southern Europe, Southern Asia, Africa, and Northern Australia. It is also known by the name puncture vine. In addition to this, Tribulus Terrestris goes by different names depending upon its geographical locations.
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How does Tribulus Terrestris work?
Now let’s have a glance at how Tribulus Terrestris works. Extensive research work has shown that the plant and its several parts may improve blood sugar control and cholesterol in people who have diabetes. Tribulus Terrestris medicine is mostly advised by physicians for males concerned about their health including virility and vitality, and more specifically concentrated towards cardiovascular and urogenital health of patients.
Apart from this, Tribulus Terrestris also boosts testosterone levels. The plant can also help to increase stamina to lift more during a workout as well as aiding post-workout muscle recovery. Ayurvedic medicines containing Tribulus Terrestris are also used to support the proper functioning of the genitourinary tract and to remove the urinary stones.
Generally, the plant blooms with small yellow flowers containing only 5 petals. It grows with multiple stems that spring out from one crown. It possesses pinnate leaves that are arranged in two rows of little leaflets which are arranged opposite each other along the stems of the plant. The fruits are used in herbal medicine. They are collected when they are mature and dried for later use in decoction. The young shoots and leaves can be boiled and used as a vegetable.
Reasons behind consuming Tribulus Terrestris
There are ample reasons for consuming Tribulus Terrestris. Ever since the discovery of its beneficial effects for humans, it has been used by people to enhance athletic performance, bodybuilding, and for a wide range of health issues that may include both heart and circulatory conditions and also in the case of sexual issues.
Now the question arises if Tribulus Terrestris is actually useful for bodybuilders and athletes. Does it really work? Various studies have reflected that it might be helpful in lessening symptoms of angina and in enhancing athletic performance among players. There have also been studies that show some benefits to people with certain sexual problems and to those suffering from infertility. Thus there are great uses of this plant for people.
Sufficient evidence is lacking that shows that Tribulus Terrestris is beneficial for other health conditions as well. However, one should also keep a close eye regarding the dosage of the medicine. A little negligence can cause great damage to the body. Also, quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely among different manufacturers. This makes it difficult to set a standard dose. One can garner the benefits of Tribulus Terrestris from suitable foods. The spine covered fruit should be eaten on a regular basis to acquire the benefits of this plant.
Research Study
Study 1: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27401787
In the study, 65 men with low level and quality of semen were analysed. They were all administered with 250 mg of Tribulus Terrestris for a certain period of time. Body fat, muscle mass, semen parameters, and steroid hormone levels were studied during his time. At the end of the study, a considerable decrease was noticed in body fat, while lean mass had increased. In addition to this, sperm quality and motility also increased. The study supports the statement that zinc is quite influential in increasing sperm concentration and reducing fat.
Dosage
There is a certain dosage for Tribulus Terrestris that must be strictly maintained under any circumstances for positive results. The usual dosage for Tribulus Terrestris ranges between 85 to 250mg that should be consumed three times a day, along with meals or as recommended by the manufacturer or physicians.
One can use it in tea as well. Following is the method to prepare Tribulus Terrestris tea
1. Grate, slice or powder 2g of tribulus tea.
2. Simmer it in a pot for 20 minutes.
3. Strain and add sweetener as needed.
4. If using powdered Tribulus Terrestris, add honey, mix into a paste and add hot water. The main active ingredients of Tribulus are namely kaempferol, kaempferol 3-glucoside, kaempferol 3-rutinoside, tribulosin and harmine. All of these are very important. It also contains active compounds called steroidal saponins which are mainly found in the leaf of the plant.
Tribulus Terrestris was also used as a weapon by many South African tribes. The thorny seeds were collected, dipped in poison and then placed on the ground waiting for rival tribes to step on. Tribulus seems to work by increasing the levels of luteinizing hormone.
Side Effects of Tribulus Terrestris
As any medicine can cause side effects under certain conditions so is correct for Tribulus Terrestris also. Tribulus has been used safely in research studies lasting up to 90 days. Side effects may include mild stomach pain, cramping, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, excitation, difficulty in sleeping, or heavy menstrual bleeding. This is quite dangerous for human health.
Following are some of the symptoms caused by over dosage of Tribulus Terrestris:
- One can be feeling warmer than usual. It can be more uncomfortable in hot weather.
- You may also experience restlessness and sleeplessness during the night. This herb increases energy so you must do some exercise to burn off extra energy. This is very vital and should be kept in mind.
- If you feel that your heart is beating a little faster than usual, reduce your dosage and you will be fine.
- It has been found after extensive research work that Tribulus Terrestris may improve libido in men and women. Most research shows that this supplement is safe to use and causes only little to minor side effects. There have been only isolated reports of toxicity.
Testimonial
“Now, this is a very vital part. I have been using Tribulus Terrestris for 4 days now and have to say that I have seen a huge increase in my energy. As for libido, I am not so sure just yet I do feel more in that area but not what I was looking for. This may be due to just starting to take the pill. I will have to say that one thing that I have to get used to is to start getting heat flashes and clammy skin throughout the day. As time goes by, I will update more on the effects and how it is working out for me. I just have to wait and see and give it more time to do its work. As of this review, I am 5′ 11″ 175lbs. Due to some medical issues, my doc wants me to be 145 and when I asked him if it was safe to take this with my meds, he said it was ok. Also, I am 35yrs old and the last T-level test I had done 3 weeks ago. I had the same T level as a 68-year-old male. So hope to see what that does for me in the T-level.”
Conclusion
In the concluding part, it can be said that the plant is used for many medicinal purposes. Sometimes referred to as puncture vine, it’s often taken to enhance athletic performance or increase libido. Tribulus is also used in raising the levels of certain hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. It contains a number of compounds with medicinal effects. These compounds also include antioxidants as well as chemical constituents with anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, pain-reducing, and antibacterial properties.
FAQs
Botanical Name | Tribulus Terrestris |
Type of ingredient | Tribulus Terrestris is a sort of herb that belongs to the caltrop family of plants. It is used in many diet supplements that are meant for providing essential nutrients to the body and boosting testosterone levels and maintaining a healthy condition of the same. |
Is Tribulus Terrestris used in testosterone supplements? | If Tribulus raises natural testosterone levels, its effects appear to be dose-specific. In other words, the delivery of active protodioscin seems to be ranging between a tight range. Tribulus Terrestris medicine has huge uses and benefits for human health. |
Any side effects of consuming stinging nettle | Reports say that it is quite safe to consume and causes only minor side effects; there have been isolated reports of toxicity. |
Is the authenticity of Tribulus Terrestris backed by scientific studies? | Tribulus Terrestris is a male enhancement ingredient that is used for boosting testosterone levels in the body which results in muscle growth and stimulation of sex drive. It is a very versatile male enhancement ingredient that offers not just the benefits mentioned above but it is also good for the overall health of the user. Many studies have proven these characteristics of Tribulus Terrestris. |
John Paul has been in the fitness field for over ten years. Now, he is exploring the new natural products and treatments for low testosterone and growth hormones. He loves to read medical books and research papers and summarise them in his free time.