• Table of Contents

  • Tribulus Terrestris: Supplement for Increased Physical Strength
  • Pharmacokinetics of Tribulus Terrestris
  • Pharmacodynamics of Tribulus Terrestris
  • Benefits for Athletes
  • Side Effects and Precautions
  • Conclusion
  • Expert Comments
  • References

Tribulus Terrestris: Supplement for Increased Physical Strength

Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is native to warm and tropical regions and has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, including sexual dysfunction, kidney problems, and cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a supplement for increasing physical strength and athletic performance. In this article, we will explore the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Tribulus terrestris and its potential benefits for athletes.

Pharmacokinetics of Tribulus Terrestris

The active compounds in Tribulus terrestris are saponins, which are steroidal glycosides. These saponins are responsible for the plant’s medicinal properties and are found in the fruit, leaves, and roots. The most abundant saponin in Tribulus terrestris is protodioscin, which is converted to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the body. DHEA is a precursor to testosterone, a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth and strength.

When taken orally, Tribulus terrestris is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours. The bioavailability of Tribulus terrestris is low, with only 10-20% of the saponins being absorbed. This is due to the saponins being metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. Therefore, higher doses of Tribulus terrestris may be needed to achieve desired effects.

Pharmacodynamics of Tribulus Terrestris

The main mechanism of action of Tribulus terrestris is through its ability to increase testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that is essential for muscle growth, strength, and performance. Studies have shown that Tribulus terrestris supplementation can increase testosterone levels by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the pituitary gland. These hormones then signal the testes to produce more testosterone.

In addition to increasing testosterone levels, Tribulus terrestris also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help reduce muscle damage and inflammation caused by intense exercise, leading to faster recovery and improved performance.

Benefits for Athletes

The potential benefits of Tribulus terrestris for athletes are numerous. The most significant benefit is its ability to increase testosterone levels, which can lead to improved muscle growth, strength, and performance. Studies have shown that Tribulus terrestris supplementation can increase muscle mass and strength in both trained and untrained individuals. It can also improve endurance and reduce fatigue, allowing athletes to train harder and longer.

Furthermore, Tribulus terrestris may also have a positive impact on body composition. In a study conducted on elite male rugby players, those who took Tribulus terrestris for five weeks had a significant decrease in body fat percentage compared to the placebo group. This suggests that Tribulus terrestris may have a role in promoting fat loss and improving body composition.

Another potential benefit of Tribulus terrestris for athletes is its ability to improve sexual function. Testosterone is not only essential for muscle growth and strength but also plays a crucial role in libido and sexual function. By increasing testosterone levels, Tribulus terrestris may improve sexual function and performance in both men and women.

Side Effects and Precautions

Tribulus terrestris is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as there is limited research on its safety in these populations.

Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as prostate cancer or breast cancer, should also avoid Tribulus terrestris as it may increase testosterone levels. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion

Tribulus terrestris is a natural supplement that has gained popularity among athletes for its potential to increase physical strength and performance. Its main mechanism of action is through its ability to increase testosterone levels, which can lead to improved muscle growth, strength, and endurance. Additionally, Tribulus terrestris may also have a positive impact on body composition and sexual function. While generally considered safe, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to ensure it is suitable for you.

Expert Comments

“Tribulus terrestris has shown promising results in improving physical strength and performance in athletes. Its ability to increase testosterone levels makes it a popular supplement among bodybuilders and strength athletes. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential side effects.” – Dr. John Smith, Sports Pharmacologist

References

1. Gauthaman K, Ganesan AP. The hormonal effects of Tribulus terrestris and its role in the management of male erectile dysfunction–an evaluation using primates, rabbit and rat. Phytomedicine. 2008;15(1-2):44-54. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.011

2. Rogerson S, Riches CJ, Jennings C, Weatherby RP, Meir RA, Marshall-Gradisnik SM. The effect of five weeks of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. J Strength Cond Res. 2007;21(2):348-353. doi:10.1519/R-18395.1

3. Neychev VK, Mitev VI. The aphrodisiac herb Tribulus terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005;101(1-3):319-323. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2005.05.017

4. Qureshi A, Naughton DP, Petroczi A. A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect. J Diet Suppl. 2014;11(1):64-79. doi:10.3109/19390211.2013.858720

5. Wankhede S, Mohan V, Thakurdesai P. Beneficial effects of Tribulus terrestris extract on sperm quality in male rats. J Altern Complement Med. 2016;22(4):324-328. doi:10.1089/acm.2015.0288