Tribulus terrestris, also known by the names of puncture vine, caltrop, yellow vine, cathead and goathead, is a weed like flowering plant, native to tropical and temperate regions of the world. It is mainly found in Asia, Southern Europe, Africa and Australia. Tribulus terrestris belongs to the plant family, Zygophyllaceae. The thorny seeds and nutlets of the plant were used as weapons by the tribes of Southern Africa. They used to dip these plant parts in poison, and then place these in grounds, where their enemies were likely to step.
But today, tribulus terrestris is used to prepare supplements to raise the level of the hormone, testosterone in the body. The supplements of tribulus are mainly used by body builders and athletes, to enhance their muscle mass and performance. However, excess use of tribulus can have some negative effects on the body. So, let’s take a brief look at the tribulus side effects, as well as its benefits.
Tribulus Terrestris Health Benefits
The extract of the herb, tribulus terrestris has been found to raise the level of the hormone testosterone in the body. The active compounds of this herb are steroidal saponins, which are found in the leaf of the plant. These active compounds found in tribulus help to increase the level of luteininzing hormone (LH), which in turn raises the level of testosterone hormone in the body. An increase in testosterone hormone helps to enhance athletic performance, and increase muscle mass. This is the reason why the tribulus and its herbal supplements are so popular among athletes and body builders.
However, the results of the most of the scientific studies conducted to find out the effects of tribulus terrestris, are contradictory. In traditional medicine, tribulus is used as an aphrodisiac to increase sex drive and treat infertility and erectile dysfunction. This herb has been used by herbalists, especially of India, China and Europe to lower blood pressure and the level of cholesterol. Traditionally, it has been considered as a tonic for the nervous system and hence, used for alleviating nervous system disorders. Apart from these, this herb has also been used traditionally for conditions like, constipation, headache, kidney stones, dysuria, anemia, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, scabies and eczema.
Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects
Not much is known about the side effects of tribulus terrestris, as it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration of Unites States. This means that there is a possibility that this herb has not been studied extensively. So, there may be some unknown tribulus extract side effects, despite all the claims that this herb and its herbal medicines or supplements are completely safe. However, the few studies that have been carried so far in this regard, have not found any serious side effect of tribulus. However, some people can experience abdominal discomfort and diarrhea while using this herb. Upset stomach is one of the most common tribulus side effects, which however, can be resolved by taking this herb and its extracts along with food.
As mentioned already, tribulus terrestris can increase the level of testosterone in the body. Excess use of this herb therefore, may cause testosterone build up, which can produce some undesirable effects like, increase in hair growth, especially on the face and the body, and changes in voice, mainly in women. » Read more: Tribulus Side Effects
