Tribulus terrestris
Bulgarian-extract bodybuilding-tradition herb, modern RCTs largely null for testosterone elevation in men, mixed signal for libido.
Why
Tribulus terrestris (gokshura in Ayurveda, puncture vine) has been heavily marketed for male testosterone and athletic performance since the 1990s. Multiple modern RCTs in healthy and hypogonadal men have largely been null for testosterone elevation (Neychev 2005, Antonio 2000, Pokrywka 2014). Signal for female sexual function is modestly positive (Akhtari 2014). Despite the marketing, the testosterone-elevation claim is poorly supported.
How it works
Steroidal saponins (protodioscin) have weak androgen-receptor activity in vitro but minimal effect on circulating testosterone in humans. Some nitric oxide effects on endothelial function. Female sexual-function signal possibly via central monoaminergic pathways.
Expected onset · Effects (if any) over 4–8 weeks
How to take
Dosage
Standardised extract: 250–500 mg three times daily (40–60% saponin content).
Timing
Divided 2–3 times daily with food
On the label
Standardised to saponin content (40–60%). Quality-tested. Bulgarian-source extract has historical association but botanical source is not the limiting factor.
Ideal for
Adults considering Tribulus should understand the testosterone-elevation claim is poorly supported; female sexual function signal is preliminary.
Safety
Evidence
Neychev 2005 RCT in young men: Tribulus did not influence testosterone, LH or androstenedione vs placebo. Akhtari 2014 RCT in women with HSDD reported some sexual-function improvement. Preliminary, RCTs exist in non-tier-1 journals but are small or short-duration. No Cochrane review, EMA monograph or EFSA-authorised claim covers the indication. Marketed claims often outpace the evidence, honest framing matters here.
Preliminary, RCTs exist in non-tier-1 journals but are small or short-duration. No Cochrane review, EMA monograph or EFSA-authorised claim covers the indication.
- Neychev & Mitev, J Ethnopharmacol 2005, the aphrodisiac herb Tribulus terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men (RCT, null)
- Akhtari et al., Daru 2014, Tribulus terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study
- Pokrywka et al., Biomed Res Int 2014, testosterone and prohormones in sport (review including Tribulus)
Where to get it
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