Tribulus terrestris Herbal Information

NAME
Tribulus terrestris


LATIN NAME
Tribulus terrestris

ALSO KNOWN AS
Gokshura, Puncture Vine, Caltrop, Yellow Vine, and Goathead.

ORIGIN
Southern Europe, Southern Asia, Africa, and Northern Australia.

PARTS USED
Fruit


TRADITIONAL HERBAL USES AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF TRIBULAS
Tribulus increases stamina, libido and sexual function for men and dramatically improves sexual performance and sensitivity for most women. It is widely used by athletes and body builders as it improves muscle building, stamina and endurance. It has also been found to alleviate symptoms of the menopause, such as hot flushes, depression and emotional instability.

Regular use of Tribulus during the menopause can aid insomnia, hypertension, irritability, and loss of sexual interest at this time, 65% of women treated in one study reported increased sex drive after using this herb.

Good news for athletes and body builders as it also reduces cholesterol and enhances mood and well being. This Ayurvedic herb was used traditionally for prostrate and urinary difficulties. It is also known to stimulate the liver therefore it can aid in the break down of fats and cholesterol into hormones and energy resulting in increased performance and stamina. It is reported to have stimulating effects on the immune system and the sexual and reproductive systems.

In Men it stimulates the secretion of leutinising hormone LH, which goes onto stimulate testosterone in the gonads. Studies have shown it to increase sperm production as well as sexual activity. It is indicated to increase libido, strengthen erection and speed up sexual recovery rate.


FOLKLORE AND HISTORY OF TRIBULAS
The Chinese have used Tribulus for over 400 years. Many different cultures have used it for a number of purposes. For example, the Greeks used Tribulus terrestris as a diuretic and a mood-enhancer.


CONSTITUENTS OF TRIBULAS
1. Dioscin, protodioscin, diosgenin, etc.
This first group has an effect on sexual performance and may treat various sexual disorders, sexual energy level and strength by increasing the percentage of free testosterone level for men, and effects pregnenolone, progesterone, estrogen, etc. The hormone balancing effects of Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris for women makes this product best for premenstrual syndrome and menopausal syndrome.

2. Sterols betasitosterols, stigma, etc.
This second group protects the prostate from swelling and in combination with the X steroidal saponins (third group listed below), protects the prostate from cancer.

3. Proprietary steroidal saponins currently referred to as X steroidal saponins.
These X steroidal saponins effect the immune system. They have been demonstrated to possess anti-bacterial and anti-viral (especially anti-herpes) effects. Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris may be used internally and externally to treat herpes, and virus infections such as influenza and the common cold.


TYPICAL PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE OF TRIBULAS
When taking tribulus as a powder take 1 or 2 teaspoons a day in a little milk or juice.

When taking Tribulus Terrestris as a Tincture-
Extraction Ratio 1:3
Alcohol Vol. 25%
Suggested Dosage:
Up to 5-10ml daily Spread over the day
or as directed by an herbal practitioner.

PRECAUTIONS
Long term use of Tribulus alone is not recommended due to its diuretic properties.