Tribulus has a long history of use in various systems of traditional medicine throughout the world, especially for sexual health. The primary active components in Tribulus are steroidal saponins.
Uses of Tribulus Terrestris:
Most uses of Tribulus relate to its ability to increase luteinizing hormone, which plays a role in testosterone production. Tribulus may support sexual functions, weight management and the cardiovascular system.
The most significant signs that you may need Tribulus are generally the result of low testosterone levels, especially in men. These signs primarily include a low libido and difficulty in achieving an erection. Poor male fertility is also a sign that Tribulus could benefit you. Physically active men who need to gain weight may also want to use Tribulus. Additional signs that you may need Tribulus supplements include an unhealthy blood pressure.
It is used to enhance sexual function, increase muscle mass and improve sperm motility. It is also touted in the treatment of other conditions such as urinary problems and skin conditions like vitiligo, according to Physicians Desk Reference website.
In research, tribulus appears to protect the organs (mostly liver and kidneys) from oxidative damages and also exert anti-stress effects; confirming the status of tribulus terrestris as an adaptogen.
Enhances Sexual Function:
Tribulus terrestris has been used in traditional medicine to treat sexual dysfunctions. Mixtures of different compounds found in the fruits, stems and roots of tribulus terrestris provide its medicinal properties. According to the EmedTV website, early research suggests that tribulus terrestris may increase the levels of hormones such as tetstosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA.
Increases Muscle Mass:
Tribulus terrestris increases testosterone levels, which helps to increase muscle mass. Studies reveal an increase in testosterone levels when tribulus terrestris is taken. The rise in testosterone level reduces the time for the muscles to recover, and enhances protein synthesis, or the process that living cells manufacture proteins from their constituent amino acids, based on the genetic information carried in the DNA of the chromosomes. It also promotes positive nitrogen balance. The combination of these actions all help to strengthen and increase muscle mass.
Improves Sperm Motility:
Sperm motility and the ability of a sperm to penetrate the female egg, as well as the volume and concentration of the sperm, play significant roles in fertilizing the female egg. A double blind study done by L.Setiawan Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia, 1996, investigated the effects of tribulus terrestris on men wtith oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, a common cause of male subfertility. The trial consisted of 30 infertile men. The conclusion showed that Tibullus terrestris, given at a dose of 500mg three times daily for 30 days, proved to be effective in restoring sperm functions like motility and acrosome reactions.