Tribulus Terrestris: Herbal Aphrodisiac?
In Ayurvedic medicine, plants and extracts are used as herbal remedies for a multitude of health concerns, including sexual disorders. For this, Tribulus terrestris is one of the preferred herbal aphrodisiacs. [1] The use of Tribulus terrestris is not limited to India, as the therapeutic plant has been a staple of traditional and folk medicine in Turkey, China, and other countries. Used to enhance energy, stamina, and sexual function, Tribulus is believed to stimulate the libido and support normal testosterone levels.
How Does Tribulus Terrestris Work?
Tribulus contains a compound called protodioscin. Protodioscin is a precursor to testosterone production and is also thought to dilate blood vessels. Dilated blood vessels allow for greater blood flow. When more blood is able to reach the penis, more healthy and full erections may result. Many animal studies involving Tribulus terrestris have repeatedly demonstrated its ability to normalize testosterone levels and reduce the occurrence of impotence.
The Effects of Tribulus Terrestris in Animal Models
When The National University of Singapore evaluated the effect of Tribulus terrestris on rabbits, it was reported that testosterone and DHT levels increased. Some have interpreted this as evidence for its usefulness in mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction. [2]
Researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences administered an extract of Tribulus terrestris to sexually sluggish male rats and observed increases in the frequency of erection. [3] After conducting a similar experiment, improvements in sexual activity and erectile function were also reported by Korea’s Sungkyunkwan University. [4]
Additionally, Tribulus terrestris may work in tandem with other herbal aphrodisiacs and energizers. A study performed by the Department of Urology at Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine in Korea found that a combination of Tribulus terrestris and Calendula officinalis helped improve erectile function in animals. [5]
Tribulus Terrestris: The Final Word?
As is the case with most herbal remedies, the formal medical community has been slow to form a consensus on whether or not Tribulus can increase human testosterone levels above normal ranges. However, regardless of the uncertainty, researchers in the Department of Urology at Italy’s University Federico II of Naples evaluated a natural compound containing Tribulus terrestris. The study, which involved a hundred human males who took the supplement daily, reported that after two months, patients reported improved sexual function and quality of life. [6]
References (6)
- Kavitha P, Subramanian P. Influence of Tribulus terrestris on testicular enzyme in fresh water ornamental fish Poecilia latipinna. Fish Physiol Biochem. 2011 Dec;37(4):801-7. doi: 10.1007/s10695-011-9478-z. Epub 2011 Mar 20.
- Gauthaman K, Ganesan AP. 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 Jan;15(1-2):44-54.
- Singh S, Nair V, Gupta YK. Evaluation of the aphrodisiac activity of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in sexually sluggish male albino rats. J Pharmacol Pharmacother. 2012 Jan;3(1):43-7. doi: 10.4103/0976-500X.92512.
- Park SW, Lee CH, Shin DH, Bang NS, Lee SM. Effect of SA1, a herbal formulation, on sexual behavior and penile erection. Biol Pharm Bull. 2006 Jul;29(7):1383-6.
- Kam SC, Do JM, Choi JH, Jeon BT, Roh GS, Hyun JS. In vivo and in vitro animal investigation of the effect of a mixture of herbal extracts from Tribulus terrestris and Cornus officinalis on penile erection. J Sex Med. 2012 Oct;9(10):2544-51. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02889.x. Epub 2012 Aug 20.
- Iacono F, Prezioso D, Illiano E, Ruffo A, Romeo G, Amato B. Observational study: daily treatment with a new compound "Tradamixina" plus serenoa repens for two months improved the lower urinary tract symptoms. BMC Surg. 2012;12 Suppl 1:S22. doi: 10.1186/1471-2482-12-S1-S22. Epub 2012 Nov 15.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
