Benefits, properties and health effects of Tribulus terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a plant of Mediterranean and Asian origin widely used in traditional medicine for its revitalizing properties. Its natural extract has become popular as a male physical and sexual performance enhancer.
Rich in steroidal saponins, especially protodioscin, Tribulus terrestris naturally stimulates testosterone production, improving strength, endurance, and libido without the need for medication.
Ideal for men seeking to increase their vitality and hormonal balance, this natural supplement also supports muscle recovery, mood, and overall well-being, contributing to a more active and healthy lifestyle.
Main benefits of Tribulus terrestris for sexual health
This natural compound has long been recognized for its ability to naturally stimulate libido and sexual desire. Its bioactive compounds, especially protodioscin, positively influence the production of hormones related to sex drive and erectile function.
Furthermore, it contributes to improving the quality of erections by promoting blood circulation and flow to the erectile tissues. This effect is associated with an increase in nitric oxide and an improved physiological response during sexual arousal.
Its relaxing action also helps reduce tiredness, stress, and fatigue, factors that often affect sexual performance and satisfaction. In this way, Tribulus terrestris promotes a more balanced experience, increasing confidence, energy, and male vitality.
How to take Tribulus terrestris and recommended doses
Tribulus terrestris is usually available in capsules, powder, or standardized extracts, with the most common form being dry extract containing 40% to 90% saponins. This concentration ensures a more effective effect on vitality and sexual function.
The recommended dosage ranges from 500 mg to 1,500 mg daily, divided into one or two doses, preferably taken with meals to improve absorption. For high-purity extracts, lower doses are sufficient to achieve optimal results.
It is advisable to use it in cycles of 8 to 12 weeks, followed by a short break before restarting supplementation. This approach promotes the body’s natural response and prevents metabolic adaptation to the plant’s active ingredients.
Side effects and precautions before taking Tribulus terrestris
This natural supplement is generally safe and well-tolerated by the body when consumed at the recommended doses. Most users experience no adverse effects, although mild digestive discomfort, such as nausea or occasional stomach pain, may occur.
In rare cases, excessive or prolonged use may cause sleep disturbances, irritability, or mood swings due to its influence on hormone and energy levels. These effects usually disappear when the dose is adjusted or use is temporarily discontinued.
Its use is not recommended for people with hormonal problems, high blood pressure, or liver or kidney disease, nor during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As with any natural supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting use, especially if combining it with other treatments or medications.
Nutritional supplements with Tribulus terrestris
Dosage by weight and gender of Tribulus terrestris
| Sexual / Testosterone Goal | Gender | Weight | Daily Dose | Timing | Cycle | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Libido & Testosterone support | Male | < 70 kg | 250–500 mg | Morning | 6–8 weeks | Supports libido and hormonal balance |
| Libido & Testosterone support | Male | 70–90 kg | 500–1000 mg | Morning | 8 weeks | Most common male dose for libido & testosterone |
| Libido & Testosterone support | Male | > 90 kg | 1000–1500 mg | Morning | 8–10 weeks | Do not exceed 1500 mg/day without supervision |
| Libido support | Female | < 60 kg | 250–500 mg | Morning | 6–8 weeks | Supports sexual desire and energy |
| Libido support | Female | ≥ 60 kg | 500–750 mg | Morning | 8 weeks | Enhances libido and energy |
| Testosterone / strength support | Male | All | 500–1000 mg | Morning | 8–12 weeks | May improve testosterone levels and strength |
Frequently Asked Questions about Tribulus terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a natural plant extract traditionally used to enhance vitality, libido, and hormonal balance in men. It is known for supporting sexual and physical performance naturally.
Its active compounds, mainly steroidal saponins like protodioscin, help stimulate natural testosterone production and improve blood flow, contributing to stronger libido and better sexual response.
Tribulus terrestris may help optimize testosterone levels in men with low or normal values by supporting natural hormone regulation, though results vary depending on age and lifestyle.
Most users report improvements in vitality, energy, and libido after 3 to 4 weeks of consistent use. Optimal results usually appear after 6 to 8 weeks of supplementation.
Yes, by enhancing nitric oxide production and circulation, Tribulus terrestris can contribute to firmer, longer-lasting erections in men with mild to moderate dysfunction.
It is not recommended to combine Tribulus terrestris with prescription erectile dysfunction medications without medical supervision, as it may amplify blood pressure–related effects.
The usual dose ranges between 500 mg and 1,500 mg daily, divided into one or two servings. It’s best taken with meals to enhance absorption and digestive tolerance.
Yes, some women use it to support hormonal balance and libido. However, dosage and duration should be lower than in men, and medical advice is recommended before use.
Tribulus terrestris is generally well tolerated. Rarely, users may experience mild digestive discomfort or restlessness if exceeding the recommended dose.
It is advisable to take Tribulus terrestris in cycles of 8–12 weeks, followed by a short break. This allows the body to maintain a natural hormonal rhythm and avoid adaptation.
Yes, it can be beneficial for men over 50 who want to maintain energy, libido, and vitality naturally. However, medical consultation is always recommended before starting supplementation.
Some studies suggest that Tribulus terrestris may improve sperm quality and motility, supporting male fertility, although results can vary depending on individual health factors.
Yes, it is popular among athletes for its potential to boost endurance, recovery, and natural testosterone levels, without being classified as a banned substance in sports.
No, Tribulus terrestris is a natural dietary supplement and does not require a prescription. It can be purchased online or through authorized health product distributors.
It is available through the official websites of natural supplement brands and verified online stores. Always choose trusted sources to ensure product quality and authenticity.
Scientific evidence on Tribulus terrestris
While Tribulus terrestris has been marketed for male sexual health, libido, and testosterone support, research presents mixed yet interesting findings. Below are several peer‑reviewed studies that explore its effects on erectile function, sperm parameters and hormonal responses.
- Erectile dysfunction and testosterone levels in men: A systematic review found that supplementation with Tribulus terrestris (400‑750 mg/day, 1‑3 months) showed improvements in erectile dysfunction in some studies, but no consistent significant changes in testosterone levels. (PMC – Effects of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on erectile dysfunction and testosterone levels in men) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Randomized placebo‑controlled trial in men with mild/moderate ED: 180 males (18‑65 years) with mild/moderate erectile dysfunction showed statistically significant improvement in IIEF scores after 12 weeks of Tribulus terrestris vs placebo; treatment was well‑tolerated. (PubMed – Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Tribulus terrestris in male sexual dysfunction) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Mechanism of action – penile erection models: In animal and tissue studies, extract of Tribulus terrestris caused relaxation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle via the NO/NOS pathway and increased intracavernous pressure in vivo. (PMC – Effects and mechanism of action of a Tribulus terrestris extract on penile erection) :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Human sperm parameters in vitro: Semen samples from healthy men incubated with Tribulus terrestris extract (40‑50 µg/mL) showed significant improvements in total motility, progressive motile sperm count and viability. (PMC – Tribulus terrestris extract improves human sperm parameters in vitro) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Fertility and semen quality in infertile men: In a human study of men with abnormal semen parameters (n=65), oral Tribulus terrestris extract showed significant improvement in sperm concentration, motility, lean mass and decreased body fat over the treatment period. (PubMed – Effect of oral administration of Tribulus terrestris extract on semen quality and body fat in infertile men) :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
In summary, while some evidence supports the use of Tribulus terrestris for aspects of male sexual health—especially erectile function and sperm motility—evidence for significant testosterone increase is weaker. As always, results vary by individual factors such as baseline hormone levels, health status, lifestyle and extract quality.