Tribulus Terrestris

Used in HerbalHim/ HerbalHer

Tribulus Terrestris has traditionally been used as a major constituent in various tonics of Indian ayurveda practice and is now widely recognized as having aphrodisiac properties.

The active ingredient of Tribulus Terrestris is thought to be protodioscin (PTN) similar to DHEA. A hormone which converts to androstenedione and then androgen testosterone, as well as the estrogens estrone and estradiol.

Description

A yellow, flowering plant, native to some temperate and tropical regions. Often seen as a summer annual in some cooler climates.

Other possible names

Puncture Vine, Caltrop, Yellow Vine, Goathead

Therapeutic use

General

• Treatment for urinary tract problems and gout
• Kidney tonic

Sexual

• Studies suggest that Tribulus Terrestris safely increases testosterone levels to the upper end of the normal range through stimulating production of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

Cultivation

Naturalised in the Americas and northern Australia. Considered invasive species in some parts of the United States.

Safety and cautions

Considered safe but should be taken with food.