Tribulus Terrestris: Uses & Side Effects

Testosterone production fluctuates throughout life. As you age, your testosterone levels decrease. Stress, cigarette smoking, bad eating, and other lifestyle factors speed up this process. 

Hormone replacement therapy isn’t always the best option. In some cases, it can do more harm than good. This treatment method isn’t suitable for everyone and may lead to blood clots, testicle shrinkage, gynecomastia, or acne. 

Herbal supplements are much safer. After all, some of the best medications and natural formulas come from plants that have been used for centuries. A good example is Tribulus Terrestris, an ancient plant with testosterone-boosting effects. 

This herb comes has long been studied for its ability to regulate hormone levels, increase libido, and improve muscle tone. 

Rich in flavonoids and steroidal saponins, it may enhance sexual function and raise testosterone production. Its cholesterol-lowering effects shouldn’t be ignored either. 

Sounds interesting, isn’t it? But how safe is Tribulus Terrestris? Most importantly, does it really work? 

That’s what we’re going to discuss today. Let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits and side effects of Tribulus Terrestris so you can decide whether or not it’s right for you. 

What Is Tribulus Terrestris? 

Tribulus Terrestris belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family and grows in the Mediterranean region, Mexico, China, and other areas. 

This plant has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years. Current evidence confirms its antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. 

Centuries ago, its fruits were used as a kidney tonic, expectorant, and natural diuretic. In India, the plant was prized for its beneficial effects on sexual function and cardiovascular health. 

Its therapeutic effects are due to the high content of steroidal saponins and flavonoids, suggests a review published in the Chemistry Central Journal. 

The naturally occurring flavonoids in Tribulus Terrestris are derivatives of quercetin and kaempferol. This herb is also rich in alkaloids, amino acids, coumarin, vanillic acid, and other compounds with therapeutic action. 

Some studies show that it may help enhance libido in postmenopausal women, notes the above review. In clinical trials, this plant has been shown effective in the treatment of mild to moderate erectile dysfunction, urinary diseases, type II diabetes, and other ailments. 

Tribulus Terrestris supplements are increasingly popular in the bodybuilding community. Manufacturers add this plant to natural testosterone boosters, pre-workout formulas, mass gainers, and more. 

Old School Labs’ Vintage Boost™ is made with the highest quality ingredients, including Tribulus fruit extract. What makes our formula stand out is its unique composition. We use natural compounds that work synergistically to increase testosterone levels and balance your hormones. 

Our testosterone booster has just the right doses of vitamin D3, magnesium, Tribulus Terrestris, d-aspartic acid, zinc, and other ingredients with proven results. Plus, it’s fast-acting, so you don’t have to wait for weeks or months to see your body changing. 

Need more proof? Read on to get the scoop on Tribulus Terrestris and see how it benefits your health! 

How Does Tribulus Terrestris Affect Athletic Performance?

Tribulus Terrestris alone may not be enough to improve athletic performance. That’s why we recommend using it in combination with other ingredients. Certain nutrients and herbal extracts can increase its efficacy. 

A 2013 review featured in the Journal of Dietary Supplements looked at 77 studies of this plant. 

Tribulus Terrestris did increase testosterone levels but only when used along wither other ingredients or supplements. Researchers believe that it may indirectly improve athletic performance due to its nitric oxide release effect. 

In another study, athletes who took Tribulus supplements experienced significant improvements in hand power, muscular capacity, and aerobic capacity. These findings were published in Acta Medica Lituanica, a trusted scientific journal. 

Scientists point out that Tribulus Terrestris may enhance endurance and raise testosterone levels. On top of that, it boosts immune function and cardiovascular health. 

Furthermore, this plant dilates the blood vessels and may improve circulation while lowering blood pressure. Its beneficial effects on hypertrophy and muscular strength have been documented in several studies, according to Acta Medica Lituanica. 

A 2019 pilot study assessing the effects of Tribulus Terrestris reported major improvements in erectile function and testosterone levels in men with partial androgen deficiency. But that’s not all. 

According to the Chemistry Central Journal review, this herb contains tribulosaponins A and B, gitonin, and other compounds with testosterone-like effects. These phytochemicals may enhance athletic performance by influencing the androgen–AR axis and IGF-1R signaling and help your body produce more testosterone. 

Tribulus Terrestris has been mostly studied for therapeutic action and less for its impact on athletes. Therefore, further research is needed to confirm its effects on hormone levels, muscular strength, and aerobic endurance. 

Its benefits on health and well-being are quite remarkable, so keep reading to see what we’re talking about. 

Tribulus and Cardiovascular Health

This herb is prized for its cardioprotective action. When used as part of a balanced diet, it may lower cholesterol levels and improve glycemic control. 

Research suggests that Tribulus may improve cardiac function and decrease the markers of myocardial injury due to its antioxidant effects. Furthermore, it may protect against cardiac ischemia and reduce blood pressure. 

A 2015 study confirms its cholesterol-lowering and hypotensive activity. As the scientists note, this plant also exhibits antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties, improves circulation, and decreases the amount of urinary oxalate. 

Despite these potential benefits, Tribulus shouldn’t be used for an extended time as it may cause microcytic anemia. This condition prevents your body from producing enough hemoglobin. 

An older but relevant study compared the effects of Tribulus Terrestris versus Yufeng Ningxin Pian, a medication prescribed for high blood pressure, heart disease, and angina. 

Tribulus was more effective at improving coronary circulation due to its ability to dilate the coronary arteries. Additionally, it had no adverse effects on the liver and kidneys. 

Subjects who used this plant experienced greater improvements (52.7%) in the ECG of myocardial ischemia than the control group (35.8%). 

Tribulus Terrestris May Lower Blood Sugar 

This plant may also benefit people living with diabetes or trying to prevent it. 

In one study conducted on women with diabetes, Tribulus caused a greater reduction in cholesterol and blood sugar levels compared to placebo. These improvements occurred in as little as three months. 

Saponins, a class of phytochemicals in Tribulus and other herbs exhibit hypoglycemic effects. These compounds slow down sugar absorption into the small intestine and may reduce postprandial glucose levels. 

The same chemicals are responsible for the cholesterol-lowering activity of Tribulus. In animal studies, saponins reduced both cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as blood glucose.

Want a Better Sex Life? Tribulus May Help

Tribulus is best known for its beneficial effects on libido and sex drive. Its mechanism of action isn’t fully understood, but most studies confirm that it works. 

A three-month study evaluated the effects of Tribulus on postmenopausal women with diminished libido. Those who took 750 milligrams of the Tribulus extract per day reported greater sexual desire and arousal, as well as increased lubrication and higher chances of having an orgasm. 

Researchers believe this might have something to do with the plant’s ability to increase free and bioavailable testosterone levels. Another study reported similar findings. 

Tribulus is safer than conventional drugs and works for both sexes. In a clinical trial, this plant increased sexual desire, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED). Subjects experienced these improvements in just 12 weeks. 

We’re not saying that Tribulus Terrestris cures erectile dysfunction. This herbal supplement had mixed results in clinical trials. 

However, it seems to work and has none of the side effects associated with sildenafil, avanafil, and other ED medications.

Tribulus as a Fertility Aid 

This plant has been used traditionally as a fertility aid for centuries. In addition to its testosterone-boosting effects, it may increase sperm count and motility.  

Tribulus may improve male fertility through several mechanisms. It increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, stimulates testosterone production, and enhances sexual response. In one study, it also improved penile erection.

Clinical evidence suggests that Tribulus supplementation benefits both men and women. 

In fact, this plant is considered a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy. It may improve some aspects of male sexual behavior, as well as sperm quality and sexual function.

Other Potential Benefits of Tribulus 

Most studies assessing the benefits of Tribulus Terrestris have been conducted on animals. For this reason, it’s hard to tell how their findings apply to humans. 

Current research suggests that Tribulus may help with the following: 

• Anxiety and depression
• Urinary disorders, such as urolithiasis
• Glaucoma
• Bacterial infections
• Cancer
• Inflammation 
• Acute hepatic injury
• Dental cavities
• Memory impairment
• Age-related diseases

A 2009 study published in the International Journal of Chemical Science reports that Tribulus is just as effective against inflammation as diclofenac sodium. Furthermore, it may kill several bacterial strains, including E.Coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus Vulgaris. 

This herb may also inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, an oral bacterium that causes dental carries, according to the Chemistry Central Journal review. 

The gross saponins of T. Terrestris (GSTT) have neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anticancer effects. In clinical trials, these compounds suppressed tumor growth and UVB-induced carcinogenesis.

Tribulus may also ward off depression, suggests a recent study. A daily dose of 400 milligrams per kilogram of body weight may restore antioxidant levels in the brain and improve depression symptoms in as little as three weeks. 

In the above study, Tribulus supplements were just as effective as fluoxetine (Prozac) but without its side effects. These benefits may be due to its high content of alkaloids, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. 

Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects 

As discussed earlier, Tribulus is generally safe when used in appropriate doses. In rare cases, it may cause mild side effects that subside within days. 

A 2015 case report suggests that Tribulus supplements may cause priapism, a condition characterized by prolonged, painful erections. However, this was the only case of its kind. 

According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), some consumers may experience gastrointestinal irritation. 

There have also been some case reports of kidney, liver, and neurological toxicity. Again, these cases are extremely rare and may be due to the use of poor quality supplements. 

Some Tribulus formulas may contain anabolic steroids and harmful chemicals. Obviously, these substances are not listed on the labels. To stay safe, purchase Tribulus supplements from trusted brands. 

Beware, though — Tribulus may interact with certain medications, such as diuretics, antihypertensive drugs, anti-diabetes drugs, and clopidogrel, a medicine used in the treatment of blood clots. Consult your doctor before taking Tribulus Terrestris if you’re under medical treatment. 

Generally, it’s safe to take anywhere between 750 and 1,500 milligrams per day, split into three doses. In one study, subjects who took 12 grams per day for male infertility reported no adverse reactions.

Are Tribulus Supplements Worth It?

Tribulus Terrestris is one of the few herbal supplements backed up by science. It’s much safer than hormone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids, leading to better overall health. 

Most studies indicate that it works best for athletes when combined with other active compounds, such as ZMA and maca root powder. 

That’s why we created Vintage Boost™ — our formula contains natural ingredients that enhance the testosterone-boosting activity of Tribulus, increasing its potency.  

This plant has a long history of use and may help balance your hormones, keep your brain sharp, and improve heart health. The key is to choose a quality product and use it as part of a diet and training program. 

What’s your experience with Tribulus Terrestris? Would you recommend it to others? Share your thoughts below!