Tribulus Terrestris
(Puncturevine or Goat Head)

Family: Zygophyllaceae
Latin name: Tribulus terrestris
USDA Plant Code: TRTE
Energy: neutral
Taste: bitter – sharp
(actually tastes like turnips with a slight asparagus aftertaste)

Tribulus Terrestris is a Chinese herb also known as Gokshura and Burra Gokhru (Ayurveda) and Bai Ji Li, Ci Ji Li, or just Ji Li (Chinese), in the Far East.
The name Tribulus comes from the Latin word for trouble and refers to the plant's spiky seed pods. Caltrop, Puncturevine, bullhead, goathead or goats head, puncture vine, Mexican sandbur, and Texas sandbur are among its other English names. Tribulus is the most common penis enlargement herb ingredient, almost all companies have it in their product.

Some History about Tribulus Terrestris

Puncturevine naturally ranges from the Mediterranean and Africa to the drier parts of Asia (Andrés & Angelet 1963). It was accidentally introduced into the midwestern United States with livestock imported from the Mediterranean area. Puncturevine now occurs broadly in the United States but is most common in the southwestern states. It arrived in California around 1900, apparently as a railroad ballast contaminant, and spread rapidly along railroads and highways. As an agricultural plant its spiny fruit interferes with hand harvesting, injury livestock and contaminate seed, feed and wool (Johnson 1932). The seeds can survive burial for 20 years.

The Greeks used the medicinal herb Tribulus terrestris as a diuretic and a mood-enhancer. Eastern Indians used it as a diuretic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. Tribulus is mentioned in ancient China and Indian Ayurvedic texts dating back thousands of years. The Chinese have used Tribulus in their Materia Medica for over 400 years and have used it for a variety of liver, kidney, dizziness, psoriasis, eczema, premature ejaculation and cardiovascular diseases. The people of Bulgaria used Tribulus terrestris as a sex enhancer and to treat infertility.

Tribulus Dosage

Dosage: A typical dosage of 250-1500 mg of tribulus per day is fairly common. Be sure to choose an extract standardized for at least 30-45% steroidal saponins (furostanol).

Uses of Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus Terrestris is used in various herbal formulas to treat headaches, eye problems such as itching, conjunctivitis and weak vision, pain relief, enhancement of the immune system, improved mood and sense of well-being, cholesterol reduction, and relief of premenstrual (PMS), menopausal symptoms in women, and nervousness, making it a great menopause herb. In women, hormonal imbalances can lead to the typical unpleasant symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.It is also used to treat high blood pressure and rib pain.

Recently, eastern European athletes and strength champions have used it as well. Many athletes and bodybuilders have found tribulus a safe and natural alternative to anabolic steroids.

Tribulus is especially helpful given the typical western diet where the liver is overburdened by too much sugar and fat. The overall effect is that tribulus terrestris leads to a more balanced hormonal system in both men and women. Tribulus stimulates the bile flow and breakdown of fats in the liver thus contributing to a more regular bowel pattern and effective elimination of toxins from the liver. More efficient fat metabolism can make the blood less "sticky", consequently benefiting blood pressure. Improved fat metabolism also benefits oxygenation which creates energy within the cells for use in the body.

As for side effects, about one in ten people have associated some gastrointestinal upset with taking Tribulus terrestris. Taking food with it can minimize these effects if you are that one in ten. No known negative effects presently exist when Tribulus is used as a dietary supplement. Tribulus exhibits a mild diuretic effect.

Using Tribulus can help to counter the vasoconstricting effects of caffine and nicotine.

How Tribulus Works

Tribulus Terrestris contains three groups of active phytochemicals:
Dioscin, protodioscin, diosgenin and similar. These substances have effect on sexual performance and may treat various sexual disorders, they regulate sexual energy level and strength by increasing the percentage of free testosterone level for men and they effect pregnenolone, progesterone and estrogen. The hormone balancing effects of Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris for women makes this herb suitable for premenstrual syndrome and menopausal syndrome.

Sterols like betasitosterols or stigma. These substances protect the prostate from swelling and in combination with the X steroidal saponins, protect the prostate from cancer.

Steroidal saponins currently referred to as X steroidal saponins. These X steroidal saponins effect the complete immune system. They have been demonstrated to possess anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects. Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris may be used internally and externally to treat herpes, and virus infections such as influenza and the common cold.

Tribulus terristris was found to be a rich source of calcium (Duhan et al. 1992).

Studies have shown a better than 50% increase in testosterone levels when taking the Tribulus herb. Studies show that it works very well when stacked with DHEA and androstenedione. It increased testosterone levels in a different way, however, than either DHEA or andro do. Instead of being a testosterone precursor, it leads to the production of the luteinizing hormone (LH). When LH levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases. LH is a hormone that also deals with sex drive. Tribulus terrestris increases sperm count as well as motility levels after taking it for 30 days. This is a good supplement for men and women to increase their sex drive. Most experts recommend experimenting with 750 to 1,250 mg per day, divided among meals. A significant benefit of Tribulus is the stimulation of hormone production to a balanced level, without over stimulating the secretion of hormones. Tribulus Terrestris works by stimulating the anterior pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH), which is responsible for stimulating the testes to produce testosterone.

When scientists began studying the curative power of Tribulus, they discovered that it significantly elevates the level of several hormones: Testosterone; Luteinizing Hormone (LH is a gonad stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol. A significant benefit of Tribulus is the stimulation of hormone production to a balanced level, without over stimulating the secretion of hormones. When 750 mg per day of Tribulus extract was given to a total of 212 men in open clinical trials, 85% had increased libido after 30 days, and 94% after 60 days. Thus, Tribulus unquestionably stimulated sexual desire. In another study, treatment with 750 mg per day for 60 days significantly increased sperm motility in 38 men with idiopathic oligospermia (low sperm count of unknown origin). In the same study, of 14 patients with reduced libido, 12 showed considerable improvement after 30 days (1500 mg/day), and one was slightly improved after 60 days' treatment. Libido was improved in 27 of 36 patients with chronic prostatitis. Patients who had suffered this condition for five years or more showed no improvement, yet in patients with shrunken testes and oligospermia, libido was apparently improved. A study involving healthy individuals taking 750 mg/day of tribulus terrestris evaluated hormonal responses and revealed LH increased in males from 14.38 ml/U/ml to 24.75 ml/U/ml (that s a 72% increase). The free testosterone in males went from 60 ng/dl to 84.5 ng/dl (an increase of 41%).

Trilovin

Commissioned by Pharmabul, Inc the studies have confirmed the safety and efficacy of Trilovin 250 (Tribulus Terrestris), when taken as prescribed.
1) Case studies of Trilovin 250 PMS and menopause formula, conducted over two months, involving 30 women, ages 17 to 42, had the following results:
28 of the 30 women who tested Trilovin 250, using 2 to 3 tablets per day at the first indication of PMS symptoms (irritability, headaches, cramping, bloating, low back pain, etc.), found relief from most, if not all, symptoms.
Relief was noted within a few hours to the end of the first day of usage. In some cases, relief of symptoms was noted by the second day.

With regular use of Trilovin 250 (no more than 3 tablets per day), the following additional benefits were reported:
* Mild to very noticeable increases in energy levels.
* Positive mood changes
* Increased libido
Those women who were involved in a regular exercise program reported significant increases in strength, endurance, and conversion of body fat to lean muscle mass.
2) Case studies on Trilovin 250, regular formula, conducted over two months, involving 20 male and female students of a martial arts school, ages 24 to 41, had the following results:
75% of the test subjects noticed increases in endurance while performing push-ups and sit-ups, as well as participating in ground fight and sparring.
80% of the tests subjects noticed increases in libido and sexual performance.
95% of the women reported no PMS symptoms and an overall sense of well-being during the test period.
Trilovin JMT (Joint Muscle and Tendon) contains: Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM), Tribulus Terrestris L and Glucosamin Sulfate.

The recommended amount of the principal active components, the steroidal saponins, is about 115 mg (the equivalent of a 250-mg serving of a 45% Tribulus extract) two to three times a day. The company Life Enhancement offers a 45% Tribulus extract at this recommended serving level, both in MALE and as a single generic supplement.
http://www.life-enhancement.com/article_template.asp?ID=479
Identification: http://www.naturesongs.com/vvplants/puncturevine.html

Tribulus Testimonials:
Gwen, age 40: My husband works long hours and odd shifts. It had an impact on our sex life. He began taking Trilovin 250 and after 2 weeks, that part of our relationship improved tremendously. By the end of 4 weeks, I suggested that maybe he stop taking it for awhile as the product appeared to be working too well.

Bill, age 55: I have taken Trilovin for 30 days. I sleep better, I have noticed better muscle definition, and my sexual performance is more satisfying.

Odessa, age 42: Prior to starting my period, I had cramping in my lower back and stomach - that all over, achy feeling. Also, since my late 30s, the headaches are intense and my eyes are sensitive to light. I have tried all kinds of over-the-counter medications. I noticed immediate relief after taking Trilovin 250. Now my 17 year old daughter takes it too. I even gave it to my 14 year old son when he had a migraine and it worked!

Roger, age 60: By the end of 30 days, my arthritic symptoms had subsided and I had a better range of motion with my arms - I own a pool cleaning service. I definitely have more energy and have grown new hair on my arms, chest, and scalp.

Barbara, age 49: I do marketing, including product testing, for a living so I approached Trilovin 250 as if I was evaluating it professionally. I took it to see if it would have an effect on some of the menopause symptoms I'd been having. The hot flashes went away immediately. I also notice after only a day or two that my energy level had increased and psychologically, I felt a lift.

Patti, age 58: By the end of 4 weeks, my energy level ws noticeably higher and I had an increased sense of well being, as well as increased libido. (Patti has been diagnosed with Hepatitis C).

Steve, age 42: After five weeks my energy and stamina increased dramatically. That energy increase allowed me to lose over 20 pounds of excess weight and increase my muscle tone through more physical activity. (Steve has been diagnosed HIV positive).

Testosterone and Tribulus

Your testosterone levels begin to decline slowly but surely after the age of 35. Since testosterone plays a vital role in muscle growth, most men find that it gets more and more just to maintain muscle mass, let alone build it, as they approach middle age. Low levels of testosterone also make it more likely that you'll gain fat around your waist. Researchers from the University of Washington have shown that low testosterone levels are strongly linked to abdominal fat.

Not only does it affect the way you look, testosterone also affects the way you feel. Because the human brain is loaded with testosterone receptors (the parts of the brain that respond to testosterone), your behavior is affected if testosterone levels drop too low.

Termed by some as "irritable male syndrome", the age-related decline in testosterone might explain why some men become grumpy and irritable the older they get. When men who cannot produce testosterone come off hormone replacement therapy, they become irritable and depressed. Their mood improves when they resume treatment.

According to David Abbott, of the Wisconsin Regional Primate Research Center in Madison, "Testosterone effects have been missed. When someone gets grumpy and irritable, [researchers] try and explain it only in terms of cortisol levels and depression. They ignore the fact that their testosterone levels are probably low as well."

Although one mechanism by which Tribulus works is by stimulating LH, which in turn can elevate testosterone levels, the primary mechanism of Tribulus is to restore testosterone receptor sensitivity. In other words to enable your body to better and more efficiently utilize whatever testosterone is there. If Tribulus does elevate testosterone (in addition to making it work better), it will likely do so within physiological limits, it will not raise them to abnormal levels. Tribulus is not a prohormone but more of a secretagogue or a manager that helps with secretion.

Low testosterone levels may also be responsible for symptoms of sexual dysfunction such as premature ejaculation and low sex drive. Testosterone replacement therapy offers older men an opportunity to experience a sense of vitality and well being they haven’t experienced since they were 30 years younger.

References:
1. Bensky D, Gamble A. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica. Eastland Press, Seattle, 1986, pp 607-8.
2. Kapoor LD. CRC Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1990, p 325.
3. Jayaram S, et al. Tribulus. Indian Drugs 1993;30(10):498-500.
4. Gjulemetowa R, Tomowa M, Simowa M et al. Concerning the determination of furanostanol saponins in the preparation Tribestan®. Pharmazie 1982;37(4):296.
5. Perepelitsa V, et al. A chemical study of the steroid glycosides of Tribulus terrestris. IV. Steroid saponins. Khimya Prirodnykh Soedinenii 1975;2:260-1.
6. Mahato SB, Sahu NP, Ganguly AN et al. Steroidal glycosides of Tribulus terrestris. J Chem Soc Perk Trans 1981;1(9):2405-10.
7. Milanov S, Maleeva E, Taskov M. Tribestan effect on the concentration of some hormones in the serum of healthy volunteers. Med-Biol Inf 1985;4:27-9.
8. Georgiev P, Dimitrov M, Vitanov S. The effect of the preparation "Tribestan" on the plasma concentration of testosterone and spermogenesis of lambs and rams. Vet Sb 1988;3:20-2.
9. Zarkova S. Tribestan: Experimental and Clinical Investigations. Chemical Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Sofia, 1982.
10. Taskov M. Vitaton. Med-Biol Inf 1988;1:3.
11. Dikova N, Ognyanova V. Pharmacokinetic studies on Tribestan - Anniversary scientific session 35 Years Chemical Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Sofia, 1983.
12. Sheitanov M, Khristov T, Taskov M, et al. Vitaton: comparative studies on its effect on incorporation intensity of labeled amino acids in cellular proteins. Med-Biol Inf 1988;1:20-3.
13. Toshkov A, Dimov V, Zarkova S. Tribestan: immunostimulating properties. Med-Biol Inf 1985;28-31.
14. Tomova M, Gyulemetova R. Steroidsapogenine. VI. Furostanol bisglykosid aus Tribulus terrestris L. Planta medica 1978;34:188-91.
15. Protich M, Tsvetkov D, Nalbanski B, et al. Clinical trial of the preparation Tribestan in infertile men. Akush Ginekol 1983;22(4):326-9.
16. Kumanov F, Bozadzhieva E, Andreeva M, et al. Clinical trial of the drug "Tribestan." Savr Med 1982;4:211-5.
17. Viktorov IV, Kaloyanov AL, Lilov L, et al. Clinical investigation on Tribestan in males with disorders in the sexual function. Med-Biol Inf 1982. Cited in Zarkova S. Tribestan: Experimental and Clinical Investigations. Chemical Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Sofia, 1982.
18. Zarkova S. Tribestan: Experimental and Clinical Investigations. Chemical Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Sofia, 1983.
19. Wang B, Ma L, Liu T. 406 cases of angina pectoris in coronary heart disease treated with saponin of Tribulus terrestris. Chung His I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih 1990;10(2):85-7.
20. Tanev G, Zarkova S. Toxicological studies on Tribestan. Cited in Zarkova S. Tribestan: Experimental and Clinical Investigations. Chemical Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Sofia, 1985.
21. Gendzhev Z. The carcinogenicity of Tribestan. Tr Nauchnoizsled Khim Farm Inst 1985;15:241-50.
22. Graydon RJ, Hamid H, Zahari P, Gardiner C. Photosensitisation and crystal-associated cholangiohepatopathy in sheep grazing Brachiaria decumbens. Aust Vet J 1991 Jul;68(7):234-6.

As you can see Tribulus is not just fertility herb or penis enlargement herb, it has many healing qualities for both men and women as well.

You can get Tribulus for a good price from this site.
Just type the word "Tribulus" in the box.

4210 Winters Street
Las Cruces, NM
88007
Call for an appointment today.
505-524-0002
kareinn@earthlink.net

Please research ozone therapy to find out if this New Mexico Spa is right for you.

Ozone Therapy Spas in New Mexico | Ozone Therapy Sites | Map to Kare Inn | Healthy Diet | Tribulus Terrestris