Tribulus Terrestris
Testosterone Booster
Over the years, Tribulus has been taken for a number of reasons, like improving athletic performance, heart and circulatory issues, sexual issues, and bodybuilding. But what makes Tribulus Terrestris an all-star muscle-building supplement would be the presence of saponins - steroidal saponin protodioscin to be exact. This powerful herb works by raising the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Both are gonadotropins and thus stimulate the gonads in both males and females. This prompts the creation of testosterone in men and estrogen in women. The other factor would be how Tribulus plays with blood glucose, lowering the level and creating a body response that raises testosterone.
Male Sexual Health
A powerful sexual tonic, Tribulus tops the charts of herbal Viagra. Studies have shown that this herb elevates the luteinising hormone (LH), increasing free testosterone levels in healthy males. This, in turn, will increase sexual desire and libido, improve the quality of sperm whilst making it more nimble. In some cases, it will help to remedy erectile dysfunction. Tribulus Terrestris has been proven to be helpful in cases of premature ejaculation as well. One of the main compounds of this herb is a phytochemical known as "protodioscin". One study shows it helps boost nitric oxide production. Nitric Oxide is an essential element of an erection, enabling the smooth muscles of the penis to relax, allowing uninterrupted blood to flow to this area. Tribulus will stimulate the production of sex hormones without affecting other bodily systems.
Female Sexual Health
Tribulus Terrestris is most commonly seen as a male herb. However, research has found that it dramatically improves sexual performance and sensitivity for most women. This Ayurvedic herb has been indicated for use in sexual health for many years. Tribulus has been found to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes, depression and emotional instability. Regular use of this herb during menopause can treat the loss of sexual interest at this time. A study found that it improved sexual desire in women. Another study reported that women who supplemented with Tribulus experienced greater sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction than those who took the placebo. This potent herb may stimulate androgen receptors in the brain, helping the body respond positively to hormones such as testosterone. Although testosterone is associated with men's health, free testosterone production in women also positively affects libido.
Boosts Athletic Performance
As a bodybuilding or training supplement, Tribulus is hard to beat. It contains one steroidal saponin in particular – protodioscin – which is thought to be the active nutrient responsible for this herbs popularity amongst athletes. Specifically, protodioscin promotes the release of nitric oxide, which increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood to muscles and enables better use of nutrients such as protein. At the same time protodioscin stimulates the pituitary gland resulting in it producing LH, thus promoting higher testosterone levels. As well as contributing to a boost in testosterone levels, Tribulus Terrestris can also help increase stamina during a workout and aiding post-workout muscle recovery.
Acts as a Natural Diuretic
Tribulus Terrestris has been shown to work as a natural diuretic, increasing urine production and flushing out the body. One in vitro study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that treatment with Tribulus Terrestris was able to promote diuresis, indicating that it may be an effective natural remedy in treating kidney stones. Natural diuretics like Tribulus Terrestris may also have other beneficial effects on health and could help relieve bloating, lower blood pressure and enhance the body's natural ability to filter out toxins through the waste.
Relieves Pain and Inflammation
Tribulus Terrestris has been shown to have a powerful effect in relieving pain and inflammation. Inflammation is involved in various diseases, including chronic inflammatory disease and arthritis. Researches show that Tribulus Terrestris could reduce several markers of inflammation and could help decrease swelling.
Lowers Blood Sugar
Some research shows that adding Tribulus Terrestris to your routine may bring big benefits when it comes to managing blood sugar levels. One study found that taking a 1,000 milligram supplement daily significantly reduced blood sugar levels in women with type 2 diabetes after just three months.
Improves Heart Health
Heart disease is considered a leading problem that affects millions around the globe. Not only can Tribulus Terrestris decrease inflammation, which is believed to play an integral role in heart health, but it has also been shown to reduce several risk factors of heart disease. For instance, one study showed that taking 1,000 milligrams of Tribulus Terrestris daily decreased total and bad LDL cholesterol levels.
OTHER NAME(S): Abrojo, Abrojos, Al-Gutub, Baijili, Bindii, Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris, Caltrop, Cat's-Head, Ci Ji Li, Common Dubbletjie, Croix-de-Malte, Devil's-Thorn, Devil's-Weed, Épine du Diable, Escarbot, Espigón, German Tribulus Terrestris, Goathead, Gokantaka, Gokhru, Gokshur, Gokshura, Nature's Viagra, Puncture Vine, Puncture Weed, Qutiba, Small Caltrops, Tribule, Tribule Terrestre, Tribulis, Tribulis Terrestris, Tribulus, Tribulus terrestris.
