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Tribulus Terrestris

What Is It?

Tribulus Terrestris is an herb commonly known as "Puncture Vine" or Caltrop fruit, grown in various parts of the world and used medicinally for it's virilizing effects. Studies have shown a better than 50% increase in testosterone levels when taking the Tribulus Terrestris herb. Tribulus exerts its testosterone elevating effect through the increase in luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is responsible for "telling" your body to produce testosterone. One interesting fact: Steroids suppress LH, thus reducing and sometimes shutting down your bodys production of testosterone.

How It Works

Tribulus Terrestris is being promoted as a testosterone booster. Human studies involving health individuals taking 750 mg/day of Tribulus Terrestris evaluated hormonal responses and revealed LH increased in males from 14.38 ml/U/ml to 24.75 ml/U/ml (a 72% increase). The free testosterone in males went from 60 ng/dl to 84.5 ng/dl (a 41% increase). To help you better understand this, normal blood levels of total testosterone is between 300 and 1,000 ng/dl. Another study including over 200 male subjects suffering from impotence (quite often due to low testosterone levels) showed that many of the men experienced an increase in LH and testosterone as well as sperm production and motility.

The Chemical Pharmaceutical Institute in Sofia, Bulgaria conducted Clinical studies on Tribulus which showed improved reproductive functions, including increased sperm production and Testosterone levels in men. Among women, Tribulus increased the concentration of hormones including Estradiol, with Testosterone being very slightly influenced, thereby improving reproductive function, libido and ovulation. A significant benefit of Tribulus is the stimulation of hormone production to a balanced level, without over stimulating the secretion of hormones. Tribulus that has a stimulating effect on the liver, will have a major influence on cholesterol and other products of the liver. Tribulus&Mac226; role as a liver tonic is very important &Mac246; breaking down the cholesterol and fats that inhibit healthy liver function. The cholesterol and fats are converted to hormones and energy resulting in increased performance and stamina. This role of improving liver function, stamina and endurance is particularly beneficial to athletes and bodybuilders.

Indications

Tribulus Terrestris has been used for centuries in Europe for hormone insufficiency in men and women. It has been used in the treatment of:

• Sexual and reproductive systems
  
• Liver
  
• Kidney
  
• Urinary tract disease
  
• Skin Disorders
  
• Muscle building
  
• Stamina and endurance
  
• Reduction in cholesterol
  
• Enhanced mood and well-being.

Potential Problems

No adverse effects to the central nervous or cardiovascular systems were noted in any of the clinical studies; no toxicity and no deviations in blood count occurred. No known negative effects presently exist when Tribulus is used as a dietary supplement. Always consult with your physician before taking any supplements.