# Tribulus terrestris (Tribulus)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/tribulus-terrestris
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-02
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Gokshura, Puncture vine, Goat's head, Devil's thorn, Caltrop, Yellow vine, Tribulus, Bindii, Cat's head, Tackweed, Burra gokhru, Small caltrops

## Overview

Tribulus terrestris is a flowering plant whose primary bioactive compounds, steroidal saponins (particularly protodioscin), are thought to influence androgen receptor activity and nitric oxide pathways. It is studied clinically for improving sexual function in both men and women, though its effects on [testosterone levels](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) in healthy individuals remain unsupported by robust evidence.

## Health Benefits

• Improves female sexual function in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) - moderate evidence from RCT showing significant improvements in desire, arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction (PMID: 24817920)
• Enhances erectile function in men with mild-moderate ED - moderate evidence from large RCT (n=180) showing significant IIEF score improvements (PMID: 28364864)
• Supports sexual function in postmenopausal women - moderate evidence from RCT showing FSFI improvements in most domains (PMID: 27760089)
• May improve overall sexual satisfaction - consistent finding across multiple RCTs in both men and women
• [Testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) effects remain unproven - systematic reviews show no consistent testosterone increases with Tribulus alone in humans (PMID: 24559105, 40219032)

## Mechanism of Action

The steroidal saponin protodioscin is hypothesized to be converted to DHEA, weakly upregulating androgen receptor sensitivity rather than directly elevating serum [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal). Protodioscin also appears to stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, increasing nitric oxide bioavailability in vascular smooth muscle, which supports penile and clitoral blood flow. Additionally, some animal data suggest modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis via luteinizing hormone (LH) release, though this has not been consistently replicated in human trials.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial (PMID: 24817920) in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) demonstrated statistically significant improvements in desire, arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction using 7.5 mg/day of a standardized Tribulus extract over 4 weeks. In men with mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction, RCT data show meaningful improvements in IIEF scores with doses of 250–1500 mg/day of standardized extract, though sample sizes have generally been small (n=30–90). Notably, multiple well-controlled studies in healthy male athletes found no significant increase in serum [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal), LH, or muscle mass, contrasting with widespread marketing claims. Overall, evidence quality is moderate for sexual dysfunction indications and weak-to-absent for testosterone enhancement or athletic performance.

## Nutritional Profile

Tribulus terrestris is a medicinal herb, not a significant source of macronutrients or conventional micronutrients. Key bioactive compounds include: Steroidal saponins (primary active constituents, 40-60% in standardized extracts) dominated by protodioscin (typically 6-45% in aerial parts, higher in roots from Eastern European sources vs. lower in Asian varieties), protodiosci, dioscin, and gracillin. Furostanol saponins (including terrestrosin A-E) concentrated in fruits and roots. Flavonoids: kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin at approximately 0.1-0.5% dry weight. Alkaloids: harmane, norharmane, and tribulusterine at trace levels (<0.1%). Phytosterols including beta-sitosterol (~0.05-0.1%). Tannins approximately 3-5% dry weight. Phenolic acids including ferulic acid and caffeic acid at trace levels. Polysaccharides contributing to fiber content (~8-12% crude fiber in whole plant). Mineral content includes calcium (~1,200 mg/100g dry weight), potassium (~800 mg/100g), magnesium (~180 mg/100g), phosphorus (~150 mg/100g), and iron (~15 mg/100g). Protein content is approximately 15-18% in dried aerial parts. Bioavailability note: Protodioscin bioavailability is moderate and highly dependent on gut microbiota for hydrolysis to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-like metabolites; standardized extract concentrations (40% saponins by spectrophotometry) are used in most clinical research. Geographic origin significantly affects saponin profiles, with Bulgarian/Eastern European sourcing yielding higher protodioscin concentrations than Indian or Chinese sources.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses include 7.5 mg/day extract for female HSDD (4 weeks), 1500 mg/day (6×250 mg tablets) of standardized extract (≥45% furostanol saponins) for male ED (12 weeks), and 750 mg/day for postmenopausal sexual function (120 days). Only standardized extracts (35-45:1) were studied; no data on powder forms. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Tribulus terrestris is generally well tolerated at studied doses (250–1500 mg/day), with mild gastrointestinal upset being the most commonly reported side effect in clinical trials. Animal studies have linked very high-dose or prolonged exposure to nephrotoxicity and potential hepatotoxicity, though these effects have not been clearly established in human clinical doses. It may potentiate antihypertensive medications and anticoagulants such as warfarin due to its vasodilatory and potential platelet-modulating properties, warranting caution in those on such therapies. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended due to insufficient safety data and historical use as an abortifacient in traditional medicine.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence includes three key RCTs: one in 67 women with HSDD using 7.5 mg/day for 4 weeks (PMID: 24817920), another in 180 men with ED using 1500 mg/day standardized extract for 12 weeks (PMID: 28364864), and a third in 45 postmenopausal women using 750 mg/day for 120 days (PMID: 27760089). Two systematic reviews found low evidence for [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) effects and concluded inconsistent results for hormonal parameters (PMID: 24559105, 40219032).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Tribulus terrestris has long been believed to possess aphrodisiac properties in traditional medicine, used for enhancing sexual function and libido. Historical use spans systems like Ayurveda (where it's known as Gokshura) and traditional Chinese medicine, though specific durations and systems are not quantified in sources.

## Synergistic Combinations

Maca, L-arginine, Panax ginseng, Ashwagandha, Zinc

## Known Interactions

| Substance | Severity | Summary | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
| L-Arginine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and L-Arginine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/l-arginine |
| Hawthorn Berry | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Hawthorn Berry can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/hawthorn-berry |
| Olive Leaf Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Olive Leaf Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/olive-leaf-extract |
| Oregano Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Oregano Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/oregano-oil |
| Garlic Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Garlic Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/garlic-extract |
| Cinnamon Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Cinnamon Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/cinnamon-extract |
| Cayenne | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Cayenne can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/cayenne |
| Dandelion Root | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Dandelion Root can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/dandelion-root |
| Nettle Root | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Nettle Root can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/nettle-root |
| Pine Bark Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Pine Bark Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/pine-bark-extract |
| Grape Seed Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Grape Seed Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/grape-seed-extract |
| BCAAs | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and BCAAs can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/bcaas |
| L-Glutamine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and L-Glutamine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/l-glutamine |
| L-Carnosine | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and L-Carnosine can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/l-carnosine |
| HMB | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and HMB can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/hmb |
| D-Aspartic Acid | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and D-Aspartic Acid can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/d-aspartic-acid |
| Electrolyte Complex | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Electrolyte Complex can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/electrolyte-complex |
| Whey Protein | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Whey Protein can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/whey-protein |
| Casein Protein | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Casein Protein can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/casein-protein |
| Caffeine Anhydrous | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Tribulus Terrestris and Caffeine Anhydrous can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/caffeine-anhydrous |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Does tribulus terrestris actually increase testosterone?

Current evidence does not support testosterone elevation in healthy men. Multiple RCTs in athletes and healthy males using doses up to 1250 mg/day found no significant changes in serum testosterone, LH, or FSH compared to placebo. Its sexual function benefits are more likely mediated through nitric oxide pathways and androgen receptor sensitivity rather than direct testosterone synthesis.

### What is the recommended dosage of tribulus terrestris?

Clinical trials have used doses ranging from 250 mg to 1500 mg per day of standardized extract, typically standardized to 40–45% saponins. The HSDD study showing benefit in women used 7.5 mg/day of a highly concentrated extract (Tribestan), equivalent to a larger dose of non-concentrated powder. Dose should be matched to the extract's saponin concentration rather than raw herb weight.

### How long does tribulus terrestris take to work?

The RCT showing improvements in female sexual function (PMID: 24817920) demonstrated significant results within 4 weeks of daily use at 7.5 mg/day of concentrated extract. Studies in men with erectile dysfunction have similarly reported measurable improvements in IIEF scores within 4–8 weeks. Effects are not acute and require consistent daily supplementation to observe clinical benefit.

### Is tribulus terrestris safe for women?

Evidence from a double-blind RCT supports short-term safety and efficacy in premenopausal women with HSDD, with no serious adverse events reported at 7.5 mg/day for 4 weeks. However, tribulus is contraindicated during pregnancy due to historical use as an abortifacient and uterotonic agent in traditional medicine, and safety during lactation has not been established. Women with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a physician before use.

### What is protodioscin and why does it matter in tribulus supplements?

Protodioscin is the primary steroidal saponin in Tribulus terrestris and is considered the key bioactive responsible for its purported effects. It is a furostanol saponin that may be hydrolyzed to DHEA in vivo, potentially influencing androgen receptor activity, and has demonstrated eNOS-stimulating properties in preclinical models that support vascular blood flow. When choosing a supplement, look for products standardized to at least 40% saponins with protodioscin specified, as saponin content varies widely between plant parts and geographic sources.

### Does tribulus terrestris interact with blood pressure or heart medications?

Tribulus terrestris may have mild blood pressure-lowering effects, which could potentially interact with antihypertensive medications like ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers. Limited clinical data exists on specific drug interactions, so individuals taking cardiovascular medications should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing. No major interactions with common heart medications have been reported in the available literature, but caution is warranted with medications that affect vascular tone.

### Can I get the active compounds in tribulus terrestris from food sources?

Tribulus terrestris is a plant supplement rather than a common dietary food, so you cannot obtain meaningful amounts of its active saponins (like protodioscin) from typical meals. The fruit is consumed in some traditional cuisines in small amounts, but supplement extracts are standardized to contain 40-90% saponins, far exceeding what food consumption would provide. If you want the bioactive compounds, supplementation is necessary rather than relying on dietary sources.

### Who should avoid tribulus terrestris supplementation?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid tribulus terrestris due to insufficient safety data and its traditional use as a fertility agent, which raises concerns about hormonal effects during these sensitive periods. Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions (such as certain breast cancers or PCOS) should consult a healthcare provider, as the herb may affect hormonal balance. People taking diabetes medications should use caution, as tribulus may lower blood glucose levels and increase hypoglycemia risk.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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