Tribulus - what is it? What is tribulus used for?

• July 31, 2018
• Sports nutrition
• Ulyana Romanova

Surely many young people have heard about such a drug as Tribulus. The effect of this product is impressive, and it manifests itself in the accelerated production of testosterone, the main male hormone. In addition, the drug has many other effects.

What kind of miracle cure is this? What substances are included in its composition? What are its benefits? Could there be harm? This and much more will be discussed now.

Briefly about the drug

So, Tribulus terrestris is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows in tropical and temperate climates. It is widely used in bodybuilding as a testosterone booster.

The main active ingredient in the plant is protodioscin. This is the name of a glycoside of plant origin with anabolic properties. It is one of the best ways to increase testosterone levels. People who take it experience a significant increase in strength and muscle size. Protodioscin also increases libido.

The effect of Tribulus is impressive. Perhaps it was because of this that this drug was once classified as a potent substance and was prohibited from being freely sold in sports nutrition stores. However, this provision was not regulated by an authoritative document, so it continues to be released to buyers anyway.

The exact mechanism of action of the drug has not yet been fully studied. But it is known that protodioscin is involved in the synthesis of testosterone and other androgens in the male body. This substance also releases NO, which dilates blood vessels and makes their walls more elastic.

How to take Tribulus for bodybuilding

How long to take Tribulus: the course should be 4 weeks. After this you need to stop for 2-4 weeks.

How to take Tribulus for men and women: the supplement is designed to be taken 1-3 times a day after meals. The recommended dose is 250-1000 mg in terms of furostanol saponins contained in the extract. The daily intake of tribulus itself cannot exceed 1500 mg per day. The average dose for the male body is 750 mg.

Otherwise, you must rely on the instructions presented on the packaging of the selected drug. List of popular tribulus supplements:

1. Eggs Eggs from WTF LABZ,
2. Testoboom from VP LABORATORY,
3. Vitrix NTS from NUTREX,
4. Tribulus Terrestris from MAXLER.

Eggs Eggs (120 caps) Men's health

WTF LABZ (RUSSIA)

Eggs Eggs WTF Labz is a Tribulus Terrestris based supplement aimed at increasing testosterone levels.

The mechanism of action of this plant is due to the presence of protodioscin in it...

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Vitrix NTS (80 caps) Complete Testosterone Supplement

NUTREX (USA)

Vitrix Nutrex is an effective testosterone booster based on tribulus. This is a natural component - a plant that contains a large amount of steroidal saponins. Such…

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Tribulus is recommended to be taken only during regular training. Equally important is a proper high-calorie diet, which will ensure muscle growth.

We recommend:

On this topic:

Detailed training program in the gym for men 3 times a week (+ nutrition rules)

And:

On this topic:

Nutrition for energy before training: proper nutrition and sports nutrition | When and what to eat

To get the maximum effect, you should combine tribulus with other types of sports nutrition. Among them:

1. Protein. Helps with muscle growth and recovery after workouts.
2. BCAAs. Also necessary for accelerating muscle growth and recovery after training.
3. Creatine. The best option is creatine with a transport system. It is especially often used in the form of pre-workout complexes, for example, NO-Xplode from BSN.

We recommend studying:

On this topic:

Rating of pre-workout complexes: how to choose the right supplement

And:

On this topic:

Creatine with a transport system: what it is and how to take it (exact dosages for taking with protein, glutamine, BCAA, arginine)

Even while taking tribulus, it is recommended to use vitamin-mineral complexes, since active muscle growth requires a sufficient supply of vitamins and other essential substances.

We recommend:

On this topic:

Which vitamins are best for men: for general health and improved athletic performance

Properties of the drug

Interestingly, the effect of Tribulus terrestris was discovered thousands of years ago. In Ancient Greece, for example, the extract of this plant was used as a diuretic and tonic. In India it was used as an antiseptic. And in Chinese folk medicine, the extract has found its use in the treatment of kidney and liver diseases. In some other countries, this substance was used to eliminate male infertility.

It is worth mentioning that the main component of the plant, protodioscin, is a saponin. Consequently, it also features the following characteristics:

• Providing antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Normalization of cholesterol levels.
• Providing antiviral and antibacterial effect.

In addition to protodioscin, tribulus, the effect of which has already been appreciated by hundreds of thousands of men, contains the following substances:

• Alkaloids.
• Saponins of other groups.
• Flavonoids.

Each of these substances affects the effectiveness of the drug. Due to their content in the composition, tribulus has a vasodilator, antiarrhythmic, neurotrophic, tonic effect, and also takes part in metabolic processes.

Action

The main component of Tribulus is protodioscin

, a biologically active substance from the class of saponins.
Once in the body, protodioscin
works according to the following scheme:

Tribulus is sought after by athletes for many reasons.

Firstly, high testosterone levels mean an increase in muscle mass, strength and endurance.

Secondly, the diuretic effect is the removal of excess fluid, which is important during the period of drying and “drawing” the relief.

Thirdly, normalization of hormonal levels is rehabilitation after a steroid course: production of one’s own hormones, increased libido, overcoming depression.

Fourthly, stimulation of luteinizing hormone for female athletes means muscle growth without threatening the endocrine system, resistance to stress, and relief from painful menstruation.

Tribulus Terrestris is relevant for sports such as: sprinting, martial arts, powerlifting, weightlifting, bodybuilding - the supplement increases the strength qualities and adaptive abilities of athletes.

Effect on the cardiovascular system

The saponins contained in this plant reduce the volume of infarction in the heart, which is predisposed to reperfusion/ischemia. All thanks to tribulosin, which blocks protein kinase Cε.

Other saponins have a cardioprotective effect. By taking this supplement, a person can protect heart cells from death. If he has no contraindications to Tribulus. Men may still experience side effects, so caution must be exercised when using this dietary supplement.

The drug also inhibits platelet aggregation and reduces high blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension.

Also, during scientific research, it was found that systematic use of the supplement reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood by about 10% after just 4 weeks.

Effect on the liver and kidneys

Taking this drug normalizes changes in oxidative parameters. The effect is similar to that of vitamin E. The supplement also weakens changes that occur in liver enzymes and protein composition. In the course of research, it was found that the components of tribulus protect this organ better than vitamin E.

The ability of this drug to have an anti-inflammatory effect was also revealed. Scientists also found out that tribulus extract suppresses the growth of tumor cells of hepatocellular carcinoma, without affecting healthy ones.

Regular intake of the supplement also helps reduce the accumulation of cadmium in the kidneys. But drug abuse and constant overdosage negatively affect the condition of the collecting ducts of the kidneys and distal tubules.

In addition, studies have proven that consuming tribulus helps reduce the symptoms of diabetes. But also, regular use of the supplement increases the amount of urine excreted daily by approximately 200 ml. This is explained by the diuretic effect inherent in tribulus.

Impact on appearance

With regular use, the dietary supplement also causes the growth of MSH in hair follicles. It is assumed that this is not the only action of tribulus. There is a theory that long-term use of the drug affects hair coloring. That is, it causes pigmentation.

The drug also prevents the death of skin cells under the influence of ultraviolet rays. Their mortality rate is reduced from 87.9% to 25.5%, and this is an impressive figure. This is because tribulus inhibits the translocation of the NF-kB factor.

It was also possible to prove that this substance improves DNA repair in skin cells exposed to radiation.

Neurological influence

It is important to note that tribulus is involved in the metabolism of acetylcholine. The study also found that its use stops the loss of appetite during depression and stress.

This herbal preparation also has analgesic properties. However, this was discovered a long time ago. It is not for nothing that tribulus is a traditional medicine in Iran and neighboring regions.

Also, this remedy, when used regularly, prevents hyperalgesia in diabetes.

In addition to the above, scientists have identified the anti-stress effect of this supplement. By consuming it, you can also normalize the level of corticosterone, corticotropic hormone and adrenocorticotropic hormone.

And perhaps the most impressive indicator is the improvement in coping with the symptoms of menopause. According to statistics, this is observed in 98% of women. It is also assumed that the drug has an adaptogenic and stimulating effect on them, but this direction has not yet been studied.

Indications

Talking about what Tribulus is needed for, it should be noted that it brings particular benefits to people suffering from diseases of the genitourinary system. This remedy also helps to cope with kidney failure.

In the case of men, special indications for use include problems such as infertility, impotence and low libido.

Women can also use this drug. It helps them cope with infertility, frigidity, as well as menopause and premenopausal syndrome.

It is important to note that this product is a dietary supplement and not a drug. But, nevertheless, before starting to use it, you should consult with your sports physician or the target medical specialist.

After all, the use of any product may be unacceptable if a person is diagnosed with intolerance to individual components.

Also, this supplement cannot be used as a therapeutic drug, nor is it a replacement for a natural diet. Just an addition to it.

According to the instructions, the effect of Tribulus may be unfavorable for pregnant and lactating women, as well as for persons under 16 years of age.

Tribulus in sports nutrition

Naturally, we are not talking about using the plant in its original form. The raw materials are carefully processed by manufacturers, and only then they reach the owner in special bottles. The most popular manufacturers of tribulus capsules are presented in the table below.

The choice in favor of one product or another is a matter of personal preference of the athlete. Here you should focus on the range of tasks and financial capabilities.

Contraindications

In general, the supplement in question is harmless to health. But, be that as it may, everything has contraindications. "Tribulus" is no exception.

It is not recommended for use by athletes who have problems with the endocrine system and heart.

Before starting the course, you need to consult with a specialist who will tell you what this supplement can be combined with. It is strictly forbidden to take two boosters at once. This is fraught with unpleasant health consequences.

Dosage

Many men, especially athletes, want to feel the effect of Tribulus. Before starting use, be sure to read the instructions, since the dosage and other nuances of use are indicated there.

The average daily dose varies from 0.5 to 1.5 grams. You need to break it into 2-3 doses. Capsules should be taken with meals. You can immediately after finishing the meal. The ideal intake schedule looks like this:

• 1 capsule with breakfast.
• 1 more immediately before the start of the workout.
• Last capsule before bed.

The course should last from 4 to 6 weeks. Then you definitely need to take a break for at least 2 weeks. After the body has “rested” from the drug, you can start taking the substance again.

It is important to note that the dosage differs depending on weight:

• Weight less than 80 kg: 2 capsules per day before meals.
• Weight over 80 kg: 3 pieces during meals.

It is highly recommended to start the course with 1 capsule. After use, you need to monitor your body’s reaction. If no side effects or allergic reactions occur, the dosage can be increased.

Specifics of reception

Today, Tribulus Terrestris is produced by almost any sports nutrition manufacturer. These products are distinguished only by the dosage of the substance (plant extract) per capsule, as well as the enrichment of the composition with additional additives, such as amino acids and vitamins. It is important to find a product that contains from 6% protodioscin and up to 45% total saponins. It is worth paying attention to the country of origin of the raw materials for the drug. Ideally, if they are Bulgaria, Türkiye or Macedonia. Of course, Tribulus Terrestris naturally increases testosterone levels. However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on the dosage. Simply put, the use of protodioscin is effective only within a narrow dosage range. If an athlete takes too little or too much of it, the drug will not be effective.

Taking tribulus increases the production of testosterone, which has a positive effect on the athlete’s strength, as well as the growth of muscle mass, and tribulus also stimulates androgen receptors, which increases libido and sexual activity.

Many experts talk about the optimal dosage from 500 to 1500 mg of the substance. Since most often there are 500 mg in one capsule, the daily norm will be 1-3 capsules. If the drug is in powder form, then its daily dose will be divided into two doses of 750 mg or three of 500 mg. However, each such product comes with instructions for use and it is best to follow them.

Most often it is recommended to use the drug during or even after meals, however, some sports nutrition experts believe that the increase in testosterone in the body while taking the drug is secondary, and the process is provoked by increased utilization of blood sugar. That is why they suggest taking the drug on an empty stomach, washing it down with water or a low-calorie drink.

It is important to take Tribulus Terrestris daily, even on non-training days. True, the regimen for them will be slightly different. On training days, the first dose is taken in the morning, immediately after waking up, and the second dose is taken 30-60 minutes before training. On rest days from training, the second dose is taken in the middle of the day. If a third dose is also expected, then it is accordingly taken in the evening, before bedtime. Of course, you can take Tribulus Terrestris with food, but the best results can be observed when glucose concentrations are at the lowest levels of normal. It is optimal if athletes take the drug in courses, since it is extremely important to alternate periods of using the drug with periods of abstinence from it. Typically, the course of treatment is 4–6 weeks, followed by 1–2 weeks of rest. It is important to take Tribulus Terrestris daily, even on days without training. While using the drug, regular and intense training is extremely important, otherwise there will be no effect on increasing muscle mass.

It should be remembered that increasing the period of taking Tribulus Terrestris will not improve the results, but will only develop a habit of the drug. In addition, in some cases it can even cause irreparable harm to the body. The fact is that the human brain secretes the amount of luteinizing hormone that is needed in order to meet the capabilities of the gonads. If the drug Tribulus Terrestris is taken on an ongoing basis, then the regular production of luteinizing hormone contributes to the work of the gonads at their limit, and, naturally, this ultimately leads to their depletion. The result is a decrease in the production of your own testosterone. And you can consider yourself lucky if you don’t have to take medications that stimulate testosterone production for life. Therefore, in pursuit of an ideal body, it is extremely important not to forget that the main thing is health.

Laboratory research

1. 2011, University of Singapore. The result of the experiment on primates: the use of Tribulus Terrestris for 8 weeks led to an increase in testosterone by 52%.
2. 2008, 2012 India. The result of a test on laboratory rats: an increase in testosterone concentration, an increase in sexual function.

How to use

In sports medicine during bodybuilding, Tribulus Terrestris is prescribed in two cases:

• solo - for gaining muscle mass for an athlete. The goal is to increase the hormone level to the maximum possible values ​​within the reference standard;
• during post-cycle steroid therapy (PCT). The goal is to compensate for the production of your own testosterone, which is significantly reduced to standard values.

You must take Tribulus Terrestris:

• Firstly, courses.
• Secondly, the duration of administration should be 6 weeks, then a month's abstinence from using any drugs with Tribulus is recommended.
• During use, daily intensive training in the gym with increased load is required.

Side effects

They should also be listed. Every person should know that all supplements that somehow affect testosterone production can cause side effects in men. Tribulus is no exception.

The most unpleasant complication is that over time the body simply forgets how to produce this hormone on its own. Because he gets used to the additives. By taking them, a person seems to force his body to give more than it needs. Of course, not everyone experiences this.

There may be the following side effects of Tribulus:

• Irritability and aggressiveness.
• Fluctuations in blood pressure.
• Digestive problems.
• Acne.
• Hair loss.
• Feminization.
• Gynecomastia.
• Testicular atrophy.
• Decreased testosterone secretion.

However, if you believe the reviews, then this is all just a theory. The listed side effects occur in case of steroid abuse. The supplement "Tribulus" is a herbal preparation and is therefore safe.

Instructions for use

On the sports nutrition market, Tribulus Terrestris extract is presented in the form of capsules with varying concentrations of active substances.

Choice of drug

The concentration of saponins (biologically active substances) in the extract varies from 35 to 90% among different brands - the higher the concentration, the fewer capsules are included in the daily dose. But that's not all. The properties of a testosterone booster are given to Tribulus by the steroid saponin protodioscin.

A working product should contain at least 5-6% - the manufacturer indicates this on the label.
The fact is that Tribulus, which grows in India and China, contains almost no protodioscin.
The label only indicates the concentration of saponins - up to 90%, but drugs made from these raw materials will not be effective anabolic steroids.
You must select products from raw materials collected in Bulgaria, Turkey, Macedonia with the obligatory indication of the concentration of Protodioscin.

Dosage

The daily dose of Tribulus is from 500 to 1500 mg, which corresponds to three standard 500 mg capsules. The number of capsules depends on the concentration of active substances. At the maximum value (90% of saponins), they usually drink 2-3 capsules; if the concentration is 45-50%, the number of doses reaches 4-6. The dosage is affected by the weight category of the athlete:

• with a weight of up to 80 kg (women and men) – 1000 mg/2 capsules;
• with a weight over 80 kg – 1500 mg/3 capsules.

All athletes, regardless of gender and age, should start getting acquainted with the drug with one capsule - if there are no side effects, proceed to the standard dosage.

Reception mode

Tribulus Terrestris supplement, like most nutritional supplements, is best taken with meals: breakfast and dinner. The third dose is before training. It is better for women to stop taking the supplement 5 days before menstruation, and to continue the course on the first day of menstruation.

The duration of treatment is no more than 6 weeks, followed by a break. We must not forget that Tribulus interferes with natural hormonal levels. Its long stay in the body will reduce the production of its own substances that trigger the chain: hypothalamus → pituitary gland → testes. After stopping the supplement, this will lead to a long-term drop in testosterone levels. Stopping treatment is accompanied by a slight loss of performance, because Tribulus is an artificial boost to the hormonal process. But this small setback is incomparable to the losses that come from completing a steroid cycle.

Combination with other drugs

Some people think that using herbal remedies along with steroids is completely useless. But, as practice shows, this is not so. The effect of Tribulus is obvious - this substance has a positive effect on the synthesis of luteinizing hormone. In addition, taking this drug helps restore testosterone synthesis after steroid withdrawal. This process is accelerated by approximately 40%.

What does Tribulus give if a man decides to take it after taking a course of steroids? This drug significantly improves overall tone, alleviates depression, normalizes blood pressure, minimizes the level of bad cholesterol and increases appetite.

Therefore, when taking a course of steroids, it is useful to take 2-3 capsules a day or every other day. This will be a more expensive scheme, but it gives a visible effect. To save money, the drug "Tribulus" can be used in courses from 7 to 10 days. The first such mini-course should be organized in the middle of the cycle, and the last one at the end.

After stopping steroids, the use of this drug is also advisable. Because athletes have very low levels of LH, and therefore the use of Tribulus in combination with Tamoxifen or Clomid accelerates the recovery of the body. In this case, it is recommended to take 3-4 capsules every day.

You can also combine the use of the drug with Androstenedione. What effect will Tribulus give in this case? The description states that such a scheme will help enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the training.

What is Tribulus terrestris?

Let's start with the theory. Tribulus terrestris is a plant that is found in a number of countries with tropical and temperate climates. It contains a substance such as protodioscin, the main properties of which are to increase the production of testosterone in the body and improve erectile function. According to some studies, tribulus can increase the secretion of male hormone by 20-30%. This is an absolutely unprecedented effect, thanks to which this supplement has gained mass popularity.

Officially, tribulus is considered a potent drug, which is why it is officially banned. However, its distribution is almost uncontrolled and today there are a huge number of supplements from most popular manufacturers that contain this substance. Unlike distribution, its purchase is considered completely legal, and most importantly, tribulus is not considered doping, which is why even Olympic athletes actively use it.

Reviews of Tribulus terrestris from athletes are almost always positive and most people note:

• Significant increase in strength;
• Improved stamina and energy;
• Acceleration of lean muscle mass gain and fat burning;
• Increased libido and improved erection.

Also, some athletes note that tribulus provides greater aggression and vigor during physical work, which greatly increases the effectiveness of training.

It is worth noting that tribulus does not directly increase testosterone, but rather increases luteinizing hormone. It is with its help that testosterone is produced in the body. In addition, the main active ingredient contained in Tribulus terrestris increases the concentration of certain mediators. Thanks to this, taking tribulus in supplement form lifts your mood, improves motivation even during constant hard training, and also eliminates depression.

Due to these properties, supplements with this substance are very often used by athletes after steroid cycles. Firstly, to restore the level of testosterone production, which slows down significantly after discontinuation of drugs, and secondly, in order to eliminate other possible side effects (depression, lethargy, etc.).

"Tribestan"

This is the only medicinal product made from the plant in question that is registered as a medicinal product. It is believed that Tribulus, sold in pharmacies, has a more pronounced effect. The instructions say that it increases libido, increases testosterone levels, and has a positive effect on sexual activity.

The price of "Tribestan" is 2000 rubles. for 60 tablets of 250 mg. This is enough for 20 days. But a monthly course will cost about 3,000 rubles. It should be noted that this is one of the most expensive options for using the drug. Dietary supplements are several times cheaper.

The drug "Tribulus": reviews, price

The instructions for use indicate that among the adverse reactions that may occur while taking the drug, patients most often experience:

• dyspeptic disorders (nausea, diarrhea, constipation);
• activation of the sebaceous glands and increased production of sebum;
• small rash, acne;
• sudden changes in blood pressure;
• allergy.

In most cases, trouble threatens those who do not adhere to the recommendations from the manufacturer when using the product. Side effects also appear in those users who purchased low-quality Tribulus. The reason for the product not meeting the specifications specified in the instructions may be:

• falsified production;
• the growth of the plant - the main component of the dietary supplement - in an environmentally unfavorable region;
• treatment with synthetic fertilizers.

Some athletes who fell for scammers and bought a fake write in their reviews that Tribulus did not produce any effect after a month of use. Other user responses indicate that the low-quality drug brought them nothing but poisoning - on the very first day after drinking the capsule they experienced dizziness, general weakness and malaise, nausea, and vomiting. It turned out that the fundamentally important point here is the place of purchase of the product and its price.

The cost of the original Tribulus ranges from 2000-2500 rubles. "Tribulus Maximus" costs a little more, but usually its price does not exceed 3,000 rubles. Unfortunately, in an attempt to save money, many refuse to purchase goods in specialized sports nutrition stores and pharmacies and purchase nutritional supplements secondhand at a reduced cost or in little-known online stores with a dubious reputation. According to reviews, “discounts” from scammers reached 50-60%. Therefore, before buying a drug, you should read reviews from other buyers about the selected seller.

Which drug should I choose?

Much has been said above about the benefits and harms of Tribulus. Finally, it is worth listing the dietary supplements that can be found in almost every sports nutrition store:

• Tribulus NOW. Available in capsules of 1000 and 500 mg. The price, respectively, is 1600 and 1200 rubles per jar.
• TestoJack 200. This is a complex supplement. It contains not only tribulus. This dietary supplement also contains ginseng, Peruvian maca and several plant extracts. A jar of 60 capsules costs about 2,400 rubles.
• Tribulus terrestris. The dietary supplement has a positive effect on protein synthesis, the cardiovascular system, potency and muscle growth. A jar with 60 capsules costs 1,200 rubles.
• "Tribulustan +". Available in a jar of 90 capsules. Price – 1000 rub. The drug increases testosterone production 3 times. The most effective regimen is 3 weeks, increasing from 1 to 5 tablets.
• Tribu-Tec. Sold in a jar of 100 tablets for 1000 rubles. The drug improves overall well-being and libido, stimulates the growth of dry muscle cells, and also accelerates the regeneration and recovery of the body.

There are also supplements such as Fitness Formula Testomax, San Tribuvar, Fitmax Tribu Up and several dozen other analogues. There are both budget dietary supplements, priced from 600-700 rubles per jar, and expensive ones, which cost about 2,500 rubles.

The relationship between muscle growth and testosterone levels

It should be borne in mind that an increase in the level of luteinizing hormones and testosterone does not cause a noticeable increase in muscle mass and an increase in physical condition in all men. And this is quite understandable. Testosterone and luteinizing hormones are not directly related to muscle growth.

In general, it must be said that taking such drugs should be treated with a certain degree of caution. Many young athletes who have been bodybuilding for a long time and have been taking steroid drugs all this time have achieved a magnificent, muscular body. However, the price for this turned out to be too expensive. Their natural metabolism of testosterone and luteinizing hormones has ceased. Now these people, in order to compensate for the missing testosterone, have to constantly take medications that stimulate its production.

In addition, the effect of Tribulus Terrestris on the human body has not been fully studied. The effects of Tribulus have been studied primarily in people with low testosterone metabolism or other health conditions. The effect of the drug on the body of a healthy man, with normal production of testosterone and luteinizing hormones, is in many ways still a mystery.

Sellers of nutritional supplements based on Tribulus Terrestris often claim that the drugs they offer relieve many diseases, cause an increase in potency, muscle mass growth, etc. These statements are not without some truth. However, you should know that it is unlikely that you will be able to increase muscle mass and strength by taking Tribulus Terrestris alone. To achieve greater results in increasing muscle size and physical strength, you need to take dietary supplements containing androstenedione and DHEA at the same time as Tribulus and train hard in the gym.