Tribulis terrestris, also called "puncture vine" is a plant long used around the world for the treatment of various ailments. Tribulis terrestris is popularly claimed to improve sexual health in humans. In Turkey, tribulis is commonly used in folk medicine for the treatment of abdominal colic, hypertension and high cholesterol. In Europe tribulis terrestris has been used in folk medicine throughout history, as far back as the Greeks, treating such wide-ranging conditions as headache, nervous disorders, constipation, and sexual dysfunction. In China and India, tribulis has been touted for use in liver, kidney, urinary, and cardiovascular remedies. Tribulis terrestris is a tropical vine common in sandy soil throughout India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. This south Asian herb is popular for its potent role in supporting reproductive function. Tribulis terrestris can be used by both men and women.
   The primary use of tribulis terrestris today in the US is for the purposes of sexual improvement.

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Distribution of steroidal saponins in Tribulus terrestris from different geographical regions.
Phytochemistry. 2008 January. Dinchev D, Janda B, Evstatieva L, Oleszek W, Aslani MR, Kostova I. Institute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria.
The steroidal saponins of Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae) are considered to be the factor responsible for biological activity of products derived from this plant. The activity depends on the concentration and the composition of active saponins, which in turn is influenced by the geographical origin of plant material. Samples of Tribulus terrestris collected in Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, Macedonia, Turkey, Georgia, Iran, Vietnam and India were analyzed for protodioscin (1), prototribestin (2), pseudoprotodioscin (3), dioscin (4), tribestin (5) and tribulosin (6). The flavonoid rutin (7) was also included in the comparison. The results revealed distinct differences in the content of these compounds depending on region of sample collection, plant part studied and stage of plant development. The Tribulus terrestris samples from Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece, Serbia, Macedonia, Georgia and Iran exhibited similar chemical profile and only some quantitative difference in the content of 1-7 with protodioscin (1) and prototribestin (2) as main components. The Vietnamese and Indian samples exhibit totally different chemical profile. They lack 2 and 5, while tribulosin (6) is present in high amounts. Compounds different from 1 to 7 are dominating in these 3 samples.

Sexual herbs and supplements that are effective in improving stamina and performance
Additional herbs that have an influence on sexuality include: Ashwagandha herb, avena sativa, butea superba, Catuaba herb, cnidium monnieri, coleus forskohlii, damiana, Deer-Antler-Velvet extract, fish oils, Horny-Goat-Weed herb, Maca herb, Mucuna-Pruriens herb, Muira-Puama herb, Rehmannia herb, Rhodiola herb, Tongkat-Ali herb, and Yohimbe.

Tribulis Terrestris, Testosterone and androgen
There is conflicting information as to whether tribulus terrestris, when used as a supplement, has any significant effect on testosterone levels. Two human studies did not find tribulus terrestris to have much of an influence on testosterone, whereas lab studies may indicate otherwise.

The aphrodisiac herb Tribulus terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Oct 3;101(1-3):319-23. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University, 2 Zdrave str., Sofia-1431, Bulgaria.
The aim of the current study is to investigate the influence of Tribulus terrestris extract on androgen metabolism in young males. Twenty-one healthy young 20-36 years old men were randomly separated into three groups-two experimental (each n=7) and a control (placebo) one (n=7). The experimental groups were named TT1 and TT2 and the subjects were assigned to consume 20 and 10 mg/kg body weight per day of Tribulus terrestris extract, respectively, separated into three daily intakes for 4 weeks. Testosterone, androstenedione and luteinizing hormone levels in the serum were measured 24 h before supplementation and at 24, 72, 240, 408 and 576 h from the beginning of the supplementation. There was no significant difference between Tribulus terrestris supplemented groups and controls in the serum testosterone, androstenedione or luteinizing hormone levels. All results were within the normal range. The findings in the current study anticipate that Tribulus terrestris steroid saponins possess neither direct nor indirect androgen-increasing properties. The study will be extended in the clarifying the probable mode of action of Tribulus terrestris steroid saponins.

Effect of Tribulus terrestris on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-diaphorase activity and androgen receptors in rat brain.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Jan 4;96(1-2):127-32. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119074, Singapore.
Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae) have been used as an aphrodisiac both in the Indian and Chinese traditional systems of medicine. Administration of Tribulus terrestris extract increased sexual behaviour and intracavernous pressure both in normal and castrated rats and these effects were probably due to the androgen increasing property of Tribulus terrestris extract. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the effect of Tribulus terrestris extract on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-diaphorase (NADPH-d) activity and androgen receptor (AR) immunoreactivity in rat brain. Twenty-four adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups of twelve each. Group I was treated with distilled water and Group II was treated with Tribulus terrestris extract at the dose of 5mg/kg body weight orally, once daily for 8 weeks. There was an increase in both NADPH-d (67%) and AR immunoreactivity (58%) in Tribulus terrestris extract treated group and these results were statistically significant compared to the control. Chronic treatment of Tribulus terrestris extract in rats increases the NADPH-d positive neurons and AR immunoreactivity in the PVN region. Androgens are known to increase both AR and NADPH-d positive neurons either directly or by its conversion to oestrogen. The mechanism for the observed increase in AR and NADPH-d positive neurons in the present study is probably due to the androgen increasing property of Tribulus terrestris extract. The findings from the present study add further support to the aphrodisiac claims of Tribulus terrestris extract.

The hormonal effects of Tribulus terrestris and its role in the management of male erectile dysfunction -- an evaluation using primates, rabbit and rat.
Phytomedicine. 2008 January. Gauthaman K, Ganesan AP. Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, 119074 Singapore.
Hormonal effects of Tribulus terrestris were evaluated in primates, rabbit and rat to identify its usefulness in the management of erectile dysfunction. Tribulus terrestris extract was administered intravenously, as a bolus dose of 7.5, 15 and 30 mg/kg, in primates for acute study. Rabbits and normal rats were treated with 2.5, 5 and 10mg/kg of Tribulus terrestris extract orally for 8 weeks, for chronic study. In addition, castrated rats were treated either with testosterone cypionate (10mg/kg, subcutaneously; biweekly for 8 weeks) or Tribulus terrestris orally (5mg/kg daily for 8 weeks). Blood samples were analyzed for testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) levels using radioimmunoassay. In primates, the increases in T (52%), DHT (31%) and DHEAS (29%) at 7.5mg/kg were statistically significant. In rabbits, both T and DHT were increased compared to control, however, only the increases in DHT (by 30% and 32% at 5 and 10mg/kg) were statistically significant. In castrated rats, increases in T levels by 51% and 25% were observed with T and Tribulus terrestris extract respectively that were statistically significant. Tribulus terrestris increases some of the sex hormones, possibly due to the presence of protodioscin in the extract. Tribulus terrestris may be useful in mild to moderate cases of ED.

Tribulus Terrestris and Cancer
Chemopreventive potential of Tribulus terrestris against 7,12- dimethylbenz (a) anthracene induced skin papillomagenesis in mice.
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2006 Apr-Jun;7(2):289-94. Radiation and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004, India.
In the present investigation, the chemopreventive potential of aqueous extracts of the root and fruit of Tribulus terrestris (an Ayurvedic medicinal plant) on 7, 12 - dimethylbenz (a) anthracene (DMBA) induced papillomagenesis in male Swiss albino mice was studied. A significant reduction in tumor incidence, tumor burden and cumulative number of papillomas was observed, along with a significant increase in average latent period in mice treated orally with Tribulus terrestris suspension continuously at pre, peri and post-initiation stages of papillomagenesis as compared to the control group treated with DMBA and croton oil alone. Treatment with Tribulus terrestris suspension by oral gavage for 7 days resulted in a significant increase in the reduced glutathione content in the liver for both root and fruit extracts. Conversely, lipid peroxidation levels were significantly decreased.

[Experimental study of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on renal carcinoma cell line]
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2005 Aug;30(16):1271-4. School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China.
To investigate the effect of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on the renal carcinoma cell (786-0) in vitro, and inhibitory mechanisms. Effects of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on the cytotoxicity, morphological changes of apoptosis, cell cycle and expression of Bcl-2 protein in the 786-0 were tested respectively by MTT method. Saponins from Tribulus terrestris can significantly inhibit the growth of 786-0 in vitro, partially, by apoptosis.

[Investigation on inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing effects of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on hepatoma cell line BEL-7402]
Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2004 Jul;29(7):681-4. Life Science School, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China.
To investigate the inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing effects of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on liver cancer cell line BEL-7402. CONCLUSION: saponins from Tribulus terrestris exerts its cytotoxic effect on BEL-7402 cells by inducing apoptosis.

[The inhibitory effect of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on Bcap-37 breast cancer cell line in vitro]
Zhong Yao Cai. 2003 Feb;26(2):104-6. Life Science School of East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062.
The inhibitory effect of saponins from Tribulus terrestris on Bcap37 breast cancer cell line were determined by cell growth curve, MTT assay, protein content assay and morphological observation. The results showed that saponins from Tribulus terrestris had potent inhibitory effect on Bcap-37 cell line in a concentration-dependent manner. Bcap-37 cell exhibited morphological alteration, namely, cells got round and shrunk, nuclei contracted after treating with STT.

Tribulus Terrestris and Angina Pectoris
[406 cases of angina pectoris in coronary heart disease treated with saponin of Tribulus terrestris]
Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 1990 Feb;10(2):85-7, 68. Research Unit of Cardiovascular Disease, Jilin Medical College.
Coronary heart disease (CHD) was treated with saponin of Tribulus terrestris. According to 406 cases of clinical observation and a cross test (67 cases treated with Yufen Ningxin Pian as control), the results showed that the total efficacious rate of remission angina pectoris was 82.3%. It was higher than the control group with a total effective rate of 67.2% (P less than 0.05). The total effective rate of ECG improvement (52.7%) was even higher than that of the control group (35.8%). It is shown that saponin of Tribulus terrestris has the action of dilating coronary artery and improving coronary circulation, and thus has better effects on improving ECG of myocardial ischemia. If taken for a long time, it has no adverse reaction on blood system and hepatic and renal functions. Neither does tribulus terrestris have side effects. It is one of the ideal medicines to treat angina pectoris.

Tribulus terrestris as diuretic
Tribulus terrestris: preliminary study of its diuretic and contractile effects and comparison with Zea mays
Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 85, Issues 2-3, April 2003. Department of Urology, St. Bartholomew’s, The Royal London & Homerton University Hospitals, 224B East End Road, East Finchley, London N2 8AX, UK. Department of Laboratory, Al-Rasheed Military Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq
Tribulus terrestris L. (Zygophyllaceae) which is called Al-Gutub (in Iraqi dialect) or Qutîba (in classical Arabic medicine), and Zea mays were both used alone or in combination by Iraqi herbalists to propel urinary stones. We studied the aqueous extract of the leaves and fruits of Tribulus terrestris and the hair of Z. mays, to determine their diuretic activity and the contractile effect of Tribulus terrestris. The aqueous extract was filtered and the solvent was evaporated to produce a dry crude extract. The dry extract was then dissolved in physiological saline to make the required concentrations. Wistar male rats were used for the diuresis test and strips of isolated Guinea pig ileum were used for the contractility test. The aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris, in oral dose of 5 g/kg elicited a positive diuresis, which was slightly more than that of furosemide. Tribulus terrestris has long been used empirically to propel urinary stones. The diuretic and contractile effects of Tribulus terrestris indicate that it has the potential of propelling urinary stones and merits further pharmacological studies.

Q. I got some Tribulus terrestris (ESE labs) and took just a gram (the bottle said 1-2), and found myself up all night urinating. You might want to warn people to start off slow. This tribulus supplement also kept me from sleeping and instead of being an sex enhancer, it did the opposite.
 

Tribulus Terrestris and Lipids
[Effect of saponin from Tribulus terrestris on hyperlipidemia]
Zhong Yao Cai. 2003 May;26(5):341-4. School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062.
The preventive and therapeutic effects of saponin from Tribulus terrestris L. on diet-induced hyperlipidemia in mice have been studied. It showed that in preventive experiment the saponin could significantly low the levels of serum total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and liver total cholesterol and triglyceride, and increase the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in liver. The therapeutic experiment showed that the saponin could significantly reduce the contents of serum total cholesterol and liver totak cholesterol.

Antifungal Activity of Tribulus Terrestris Saponins
In vitro and in vivo antifungal activities of the eight steroid saponins from Tribulus terrestris L. with potent activity against fluconazole-resistant fungal pathogens.
Biol Pharm Bull. 2005 Dec;28(12):2211-5. Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, PR China.
Antifungal activity of natural products is being studied widely. Saponins are known to be antifungal and antibacterial. We have isolated eight steroid saponins from Tribulus terrestris L., identified as tigogenin-3-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1-->2)-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1-->3)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->4)-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1-->2)]-beta-D-galactopyranoside and tigogenin-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->2)-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1-->3)]-beta-D-glucopyranosyl(1-->4)-beta-D-galactopyranoside. The in vitro antifungal activities of the eight tribulus terrestris saponins against six fluconazole-resistant yeasts, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, and Cryptococcus neoformans were studied using microbroth dilution assay. In conclusion, certain steroid saponins from Tribulus terrestris L. have significant in vitro antifungal activity against fluconazole-resistant fungi.

Tribulus Terrestris and Hypertension
Antihypertensive and vasodilator effects of methanolic and aqueous extracts of Tribulus terrestris in rats.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2006 Apr 6;104(3):351-5. Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 24923, 13110 Safat, Kuwait.
The effects of methanolic and aqueous extracts of Tribulus terrestris on rat blood pressure (BP) and the perfused mesenteric vascular bed were investigated. The tribulus terrestris extracts dose-dependently reduced BP in spontaneously hypertensive ratswith the aqueous fraction being more potent than the methanolic fraction at all doses tested. It was concluded that methanolic and aqueous extracts of Tribulus terrestris possess significant antihypertensive activity in spontaneously hypertensive rats. The antihypertensive effects appeared to result from a direct arterial smooth muscle relaxation possibly involving nitric oxide release and membrane hyperpolarization.

Tribulus terrestris questions
Q. I have read an article of Tribulis, it mentions that many websites report tribulis terrestris increases testosterone levels. Does tribulis terrestris increase the level of DHT? Does tribulis terrestris cause hair loss problem like DHEA?
i am taking tribulis terrestris and worrying about that it will cause hair loss.
   A. There have been some (but not all) studies that show tribulus terrestris may increase testosterone levels, but whether this continues when this herb is taken for prolonged periods is not known. There are no long term human studies with tribulus terrestris to know what influence it has on hair loss, if any. It is often a good idea to take a break from the use of sexual herbs, this could be taking at least one week off per month.

Q. Does tribulus terrestris supplement stimulate testosterone production or release?
   A. There are several herbal supplements that in animal studies have been thought to stimulate testosterone production or release. One such herb is  tribulus terrestris. It is not clear whether the testosterone stimulation with this herbal supplement is temporary (the body my get exhausted of its testosterone supply) or consistent over days, weeks and months of use. Long term tribulus terrestris extract human studies are not available to give us a good understanding.

Q. I am on blood pressure meds. Will tribulus terrestris supplement raise my blood pressure or hurt me in anyway?
   A. Not enough research is available to determine the effect of tribulus terrestris supplement on blood pressure. Much is dose dependent. Low dosages may not have much of an effect on blood pressure. However, unexpected reactions can occur when drugs and herbs are combined, especially in high dosages.

Q.  I am contacting you to inquire about where you get your raw tribulus terrestris materials to manufacture tribulus terrestris products. I am trained in Integrated Pest Management and one of the best ways to control puncturevine is to manually remove it. With this practice we end up with several hundred pounds of plant matter. I was wondering if you could use this material for the manufacture of your tribulus terrestris products. I would like to expand my company activities to harvest of Tribulus for manufacture of supplements.
   A. The raw material of tribulus terrestris comes a raw material supplier who provides standardized dosage of 40 percent saponins.

Q. I heard about tribulus terrestris on a local radio talk show here in Denver in November 2007. I saw your website and the tribulus terrestris products offered. I am looking for a natural and safe way to stimulate testosterone, primarily for strength building and strength retention. I have no sexual function problems whatsoever. I am very fit and very active. I have no known allergies except for ingested alcohol. The only supplements I take daily are whey protein, fish oil, multivitamins, B complex vitamins, and glucosamine with chondritin. I would appreciate your suggestion on which one of your products would best be suited for my needs.
   A. We appreciate your email but we are not in a position to offer individual advice. There are many factors that influence a person's need for supplements. What works for one person may not work for another. Tribulus terrestris herb may temporarily increase testosterone levels, but herbs are generally not a good option to improve overall athletic performance in the long run. Diet, exercise, deep sleep, and certain supplements such as creatine and protein powder could be helpful for strength increase.

Q. You have a very informative website. I especially like the fact that you include scientific studies along with the information regarding a specific herb or supplement. I have a question regarding Tribulus Terrestris: I am a middle aged man and I am thinking of taking the herb to help with low libido, however, I have read articles stating that along with raising testosterone in men, the herb can also raise the level of estrogen. Do you know of any studies that have confirmed this claim? Also, as a follow up question, assuming I want to take Tribulus Terrestris, do you know of any herbs or supplements that can help block excess production of estrogen that might result from taking Tribulus Terrestris.
   A. Not enough human studies have been done to determine the effect of chronic tribulus terrestris ingestion on various hormone levels over time. It is a good idea to take breaks from the use of sexual herbs and, if needed, one can substitute other sexual enhancing herbs that have different mechanisms of action.