Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with a history of traditional use in other parts of the world covering a variety of ailments. In modern herbal medicine, it is attributed with a few different potential benefits. Following is a look at tribulus terrestris, and its potential health benefits.
What Is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus terrestris (or, tribulus) is an herb native to western Asia, southern Europe, and Africa. In Chinese and Indian herbal medicine, tribulus has been traditionally used to remedy various ailments and symptoms, including skin and eye disorders, heart-related issues, and chest pain, and as a diuretic.
This herb has been shown to have various healthful qualities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and cardioprotective properties. For these reasons, it is studied and touted for its various benefits as a dietary supplement.
The Benefits of Tribulus Terrestris
It’s important to first note that some researchers have determined that tribulus terrestris should be for short-term use only: long-term use could cause negative side effects. However, the healthful properties of tribulus make it potentially useful to provide these benefits:
Enhance libido: Studies have shown that men with low sex drive can see significant improvements in libido by supplementing with tribulus terrestris. This benefit has also been evidenced for women with low libido. Furthermore, some studies also show that this herb could help men with erectile dysfunction.
Infertility: At least one study suggests that daily supplementation with tribulus terrestris over 12 weeks could improve male fertility. It could do so by increasing sperm count and organ motility. Another study gave evidence that tribulus could potentially improve fertility in women with endocrine sterility.
Kidney stones: The risk of kidney stones could potentially be reduced by taking tribulus terrestris. It could do so by promoting enhanced urination. Mitigating kidney stones is one of the traditional uses of tribulus terrestris, and this use has been corroborated by animal studies in recent years.
Blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes could potentially be managed by supplementing with tribulus terrestris. Studies show that taking tribulus daily for three months resulted in lower blood sugar and cholesterol compared to a placebo. Other studies show that tribulus could help prevent blood vessel damage.
If you experience any of the health issues discussed above, then consider tribulus terrestris as an herbal remedy. It could be beneficial in mitigating one or more of these health issues. Because of the potential for side effects that comes with this herb, it’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking it.