Tribulus Terrestris and fertility: Benefits for men and women + side effects

Tribulus Terrestris has been shown to have some potential fertility benefits for both men and women [1]. In men, it may boost libido and improve sperm parameters. It has antioxidants that may improve sperm quality by protecting it from oxidative damage and can also help to improve sexual function [2].

In women, Terrestris can help treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder, may help regulate the menstrual cycle, and improve egg quality [3]. There are more interesting ways Terrestris can affect fertility in both men and women discussed in this post, including its health benefits, side effects, and uses, which you shall discover as you go deeper.

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Active ingredients in Tribulus extract

The bioactive compound in Tribulus extract has been proven effective in traditional medicine for its efficacy in treating a variety of ailments, including infertility, low sexual desire, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases.

These active ingredients include sterol saponins, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, phenol carboxylic acids, and alkaloids. These compounds have been shown to have a variety of biological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and estrogenic activity [4]. The extract may also inhibit bacterial and fungi activity due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties [5].

What is Tribulus Terrestris used for?

Tribulus Terrestris is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Here are some of the specific uses of Terrestris that have been studied in scientific research.

It can be used to improve Sexual function

Some studies have shown that Tribulus terrestris may help to improve sexual function in men and women. For example, a study in 2017 evaluated the efficacy of Tribulus Terrestris in male erectile dysfunction and found that Tribulus was effective in improving erectile function in men. However, other studies have not found the same results [6].

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Another similar study has the same conclusion that the extract of this plant can be a potential remedy to improve male erectile function. According to the study, 100 patients 40 years of age and above with erectile issues, received treatment by taking 400 mg of Terrestris twice a day for 30 days. The result recorded a significant improvement and symptoms of erectile dysfunction diminished [7, 8].

To Boost Energy and Athletic Performance:

Some studies have shown that Tribulus extract may help to improve athletic performance. For example, a study found that Tribulus terrestris supplementation may increase muscle mass and strength in men [9, 10, 11], but some studies have controversial opinions on the claim.

Supplementation may lower Blood sugar levels

Some studies have shown that Tribulus extract may help to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. There is evidence that Tribulus terrestris supplementation may improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. However, other studies have not found the same results [12, 13, 14].

Cholesterol levels

Some studies have shown that terrestris may help to lower cholesterol levels. There is evidence that dietary intake of terrestris may lower serum lipid profiles, and reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol [15, 16]. However, more studies are needed for validation.

Tribulus Terrestris benefits for male

Does tribulus increase testosterone? Yes, in animals, the extract of this plant is found to increase testosterone, In humans, studies have controversial opinions on this. However, it is beneficial for men’s fertility, as it can help to increase libido and boost sexual functions [17, 18, 1]. Does tribulus affect sperm count? Yes, the extract may increase sperm count [19, 20, 21], and also help sharpen memory, boost energy, and improve sexual function [22, 23, 24].

Tribulus Terrestris benefits for female

In women, Tribulus Terrestris can treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder. A 2018 study that evaluated the efficacy of Tribulus extract in treating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women noted that terrestris might be a safe, and cost-effective alternative for treating premenopausal women with (HSDD) since it was effective in reducing the symptoms [25, 26, 27].

It can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle and improve egg quality which increases the chances of pregnancy. A case study is about a woman taking a concentrated extract of Terrestris to regulate her menstrual cycle. The extract was equivalent to fucosterol saponins (protodioscin), which she took 300 to 400 mg per day from days 5 to 14 of the cycle.

On the fifth month of the treatment with Tribulus Terrestris woman’s menstrual cycle was regulated to a 32-day length with a consistent 15-day follicular phase and 17-day luteal phase. Symptoms such as mastalgia, acne, and hirsutism also diminished, her lipid profile improved to normal ranges and she lost 12% body weight. The woman became pregnant in her second month of actively trying to conceive.

The study suggests that the extract of Tribulus has a beneficial effect on women’s menstrual cycle, and can help improve fertility, and reduce symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) [1, 28, 29].

Tribulus Terrestris and other herbs

Tribulus, clove, and ginger: Tribulus extract may be combined with clove and ginger to make an herbal tea that may help in treating infections like urinary tract infections since they are potential antibacterial and antifungal agents.

Tribulus and ashwagandha: Both herbs have the potential to improve fertility and reproductive function, if combined, they may complement their efficacy.

Does tribulus boost growth hormone?

Yes, there is some evidence that Tribulus extract may boost growth hormone levels [30]. A study that evaluated the growth hormone secretion accelerating function of Tribulus in rats found that the extract increased growth hormone levels by up to 30%. However, the results of human studies are mixed. Some studies have found that Tribulus extract does not increase growth hormone levels, while others have found that it does. [1, 31].

More research is needed to determine the effects of Terrestris on growth hormone levels in humans. If you are considering taking Tribulus Terrestris to boost growth hormone levels, it is important to talk to your doctor first.

In what form can Tribulus Terrestris extract best be consumed?

Tribulus Terrestris extract can be eaten in several forms. The best way for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. However, here are some of the ways.

Capsules form: Capsules are a convenient way to take Tribulus Terrestris extract. They are easy to swallow and can be taken with food or water.

As tablets: Tablets are another convenient way to take Tribulus Terrestris extract. They are similar to capsules, but they may be easier to swallow for some people.

Powdered extract: Tribulus Terrestris extract powder can be mixed with water, juice, or yogurt. It can also be added to smoothies or baked goods.

Liquid extract: Liquid extract is a concentrated form of Tribulus Terrestris extract. It can be taken by mouth or applied topically.

As tea: Tribulus Terrestris tea can be made by steeping the herb in hot water.

Tribulus Terrestris side effects

Are there disadvantages of consuming Tribulus Terrestris extract? Yes, you may experience some minor side effects, and you should consider them when consuming this herbal extract: Making you feel dizzy, anxious, and nauseous, may also increase your heart rate and, in some cases, cause headaches, or make you sleepless. Although there is evidence that intake of Tribulus Terrestris powder extract, tablet, or supplement may help improve reproductive functions in men and women, however, you should talk to health experts before intake, and don’t take the extract for too long.

Final Thought

In conclusion, Tribulus Terrestris has been shown to have some potential benefits for fertility, both in men and women. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. There are also some potential side effects associated with taking the supplement, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it. Tribulus Terrestris is not a substitute for medical treatment, so if you are having fertility problems, it is important to see a doctor.