Herb Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris) is known traditionally as a tonic which may be used to restore, tone, and invigorate a number of systems of the body and to promote wellbeing.
Many Western Herbalists utilise tribulus for certain cases of female infertility. Subsequently, a common clinical use of tribulus is recommending it at the beginning of the menstrual cycle to initiate ovulation. This PubMed study covers this topic in more depth: Tribulus terrestris and female reproductive system health: A comprehensive review [1]
Tribulus also appears to improve male fertility [2] due to its ability to increase sperm count, sperm viability, and libido, as evidenced by animal studies and clinical trials. [3]
In postmenopausal women, steroidal saponin-containing herbs, such as tribulus, have often been utilised by herbalists to alleviate oestrogen withdrawal symptoms. This includes menopause symptoms such as hot flushes and sweating (see the female reproductive system health review above) .
For more research on tribulus herbs please review this publication on PubMed: A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect [4]. Also, this publication is a great summary of current knowledge on utilising tribulus therapeutically: A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Toxicological Properties of Tribulus terrestris L [5]
Tribulus – summary of therapeutic uses
- Below indications cover both scientific and traditional applications
- Clinical research indicates tribulus improves libido in men and women**
- Has beneficial effect on male fertility and sexual function by stimulating production of testosterone and DHEA
- Clinically demonstrated to improve sperm count and quality in men with infertility**
- Improves ovulation in some women with infertility**
- Relieves menopausal symptoms [6]**
- Enhances muscle development and boosts athletic performance [7] especially in older and overweight men
- May enhance the body’s natural production of sex hormones, especially when initially at low levels**
- Herb quality and source is the key to get the benefits! The best tribulus is grown in Bulgaria. In Australia, MediHerb’s [8]tribulus supplement is of high quality and contains Bulgarian-sourced tribulus for most effective prescribing. It can only be prescribed by a qualified herbalist.
- **See cited studies above
To better understand the above therapeutic indications and how tribulus works in the body, please review this PubMed study: Phytopharmacology of Tribulus terrestris. [9]
Important: Always consult a qualified herbalist before taking any tribulus preparations or any other self-prescribed herbs.
Disclaimer: The above material is for informational and/or educational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, prescription or recommendation. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should not make any changes in their health regimen or diet before first consulting a doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions they may have regarding a medical condition or their particular circumstances.
Best of health
[10]Joanna Sochan
Wholistic Health and Lifestyle Therapist
Natural and Lifestyle Solutions for Abundant Health
Additional resources
- Know and love your herbs – Coriander [11]
- Gotu kola: uses and benefits for skin, stomach ulcers and memory [12]
- Know and love your herbs – Sage [13]
- Top 5 Bliss Balls Recipes: gluten free, high protein, no dates [14]
- Online naturopathic consultations Australia [15]
Disclaimer: The above material is for informational and/or educational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, prescription or recommendation. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should not make any changes in their health regimen or diet before first consulting a doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions they may have regarding a medical condition or their particular circumstances.
Joanna Sochan is a Natural Therapist and founder of Naturimedica Wholistic Wellcare. She has a passion for helping clients transform their lives by becoming healthy and well naturally. Joanna has 12+ years experience in clinical practice and has special interest in solving complex cases, gut health, food sensitivities, hormone imbalances, bone health and weight loss. She helps clients individually (mostly online) Australia-wide and also offers online therapeutic programs, eCourses and self-help eBooks. View full bio [16].