General Description
Tribulus, also known as puncturevine, is an annual or perennial
vine found in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. Considered
a noxious weed in most regions, tribulus is a prostrate vine generally
less than 3 centimeters in height, spreading to as much as 1.5 meters
across. The plant has miniscule green leaflets (usually less than
6 millimeters long) and tiny yellow flowers. Each flower produces
a fruit consisting of four hard, sharp "seeds" (actually pointed,
single-seeded segments of fruit), approximately 5 millimeters from
tip to tip, which are used medicinally.
Health Applications
- Muscle building
- Sexual performance
History and Traditional Use
Tribulus has a history of medicinal use dating back several centuries.
The ancient Greeks used it as a diuretic, laxative, and general
tonic. Like the Greeks, India's Ayurvedic physicians used tribulus
as a diuretic, but they also valued it as an aphrodisiac, including
it in formulations for treating sexual problems.1
In traditinal Chinese medicine, Tribulus was used to treat ailments
of the liver and cardiovascular system.2
Chemical Composition
Tribulus contains several steroidal saponins,3,4
natural hormone-like compounds found in a variety of plants.
Contemporary Uses
Modern use of tribulus is based upon the herb's purported ability
to boost testosterone levels. It has become popular among athletes
and bodybuilders looking to build strength and muscle mass. Due
to its reputation as an aphrodisiac, the herb is also used by
men with erectile dysfunction or others looking to improve sexual
performance. There is little scientific evidence to support any
of these uses. One animal study suggested that compounds in tribulus
have proerectile activity, but these effects have not been demonstrated
on human subjects.5 In a placebo-controlled
trial using resistance-trained human subjects, tribulus did not
enhance muscle mass or exercise performance.6
One study suggests that tribulus may have a protective effect
on the liver,7 while another indicates that
it may be useful in treating coronary heart disease.8
However, more research is needed to determine the herb's potential
in these areas.
Dosage/Toxicity
A common dosage recommendation for tribulus is 500 to 750 mg per
day, but some studies have used as much as 1,500 mg per day. Tribulus
has very low toxicity and appears to be safe, with no known side
effects at this dosage range. Because it may alter hormonal chemistry,
tribulus is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women or
men with enlarged prostates. |
