If humans are at all worried, it is about sex; if they worry a lot, most of it is about sex. No wonder humans found the T. Terrestris as a worthwhile remedy to erectile dysfunction.
The western world is now turned towards something the Indian Ayurveda discovered long ago. Its power to increase sex drive was first noticed in the west by Eastern Europe and America. The secret lies in the herb’s capability to optimally regulate androgens through a recharged and balanced limbic system, reactivate a drowsy lymphatic system, remove urinogenital infections and bring a diuretic effect. All of these are something bodybuilders are always in search for, so first was introduced the pure Tribulus and then, a wide multitude of concoctions in forms of pills, capsules, powders and syrups. The percentage of real Tribulus has since then been diminishing in the formulations except for in a few widely popular brands; however, even for them, it’s the minimum quantity required; the rest are components like amino acids like L-Arginine (a bitter tasting amino acid found in proteins and necessary for a good sexual health; its absence from the diet leads to a reduced production of spermatozoa) et al. Do they work?
Ideally, Tribulus is meant for consumption as a pure extract or powdered form within an hour of a large meal, contrary to other libido-stimulating herbs (e.g. Abelmoschus moschatus, Withania somnifera, Mucuna pruriens, Shilajeet etc.) providing optimal results only in combination. A mix may also contain particles that often prove detrimental to health if it’s from a lesser-known manufacturer. To see the other way round, amino acids are to be consumed on an empty stomach, without anything additional. So both ways, these deliver only half the effects. And of course, if someone is trying to ward off an anabolic steroid cycle complication, it is the pure extract that is needed and not the commercial Tribulus-inclusive supplements. For that, you need to depend on organically grown culinary herb gardens catering to custom choices.
How Tribulus works
Tribulus Terrestris stimulates the androgen receptors in the brain. Administering the extract of Tribulus produces a statistically significant increase in the testosterone levels besides elevating dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone. These induce aphrodisiacal effects and earn the herb its popularity.
The secret behind all that is Protodioscin, a cousin to DHEA, bringing better results than the pharmacological testosterone cypionate. Protodioscin helps release nitric oxide in the corpus cavernosa (the expanding outer chambers of the penis) from its nerve endings. The mechanism of action also involves stimulating the pituitary to produce LH or luteinizing hormone to facilitate a naturally increased production of testosterone, sperm count and sperm-motility levels. The process also involves the Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol, which form the bridge between the LH and the increased productions.
Unsheathing: Tribulus
The three groups (dioscin, protodioscin and diosgenin) of active phytochemicals have been found to regulate male sexual energy and stamina levels and inhibit pregnenolone, estrogen and progesterone. The result is restoring a balance to hormonal levels, which are now also being used by women to treat premenstrual and menopausal syndromes.
Additionally, Tribulus also comprises sterols (e.g. beta-sitosterols) that have anti-inflammatory effects on the prostate; the presence of steroidal saponins in Tribulus also protects the prostate from cancer and retunes the immune system. The anti-bacterial/viral effects are particularly useful when it comes to treating herpes, influenza and even, common cold. Also a rich source of calcium; but this is where trouble begins.
Tribulus: The Dark Side
Though rare, still, Tribulus is a pain in the wrong place if consumed more than 750 mg a day.
- A diuretic, it may make the body retain less water than it’s essential.
- The high percentage of calcium may interfere with the Pancreas and inhibit insulin, giving rise to hypoglycemia or lowered blood sugar levels, apart from acidity or upset stomach.
- Gynaecomastia; though have affected one in a million people, it proves the androgenic-anabolic effect of Tribulus.