Tribulus terrestris

Common Names: bullhead, caltrop, goathead, Mexican sandbur, puncture vine, Texas sandbur

Ethnobotanical Studies

Clinical Trials

6-Week Supplementation with Tribulus terrestris L. to Trained Male CrossFit(®) Athletes on Muscle, Inflammation, and Antioxidant Biomarkers: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

This study examines the effects of Tribulus terrestris (TT) supplementation on muscle metabolism, inflammation, and oxidant status in trained athletes. Results suggest that TT may help reduce oxidative stress, muscle damage, and inflammation caused by intense exercise.

Fernández-Lázaro D et al (2022).
Int J Environ Res Public Health.
DOI:
10.3390/ijerph192316158
PubMed:
36498228

The Effects of 6 Weeks of Tribulus terrestris L. Supplementation on Body Composition, Hormonal Response, Perceived Exertion, and CrossFit(®) Performance: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.

This study tested if protein supplements improve body composition and performance in CrossFit athletes. Results showed no significant impact, except for increased testosterone levels and bench press performance. Protein supplements may help with recovery and reducing fatigue.

Fernández-Lázaro D et al (2021).
Nutrients.
DOI:
10.3390/nu13113969
PubMed:
34836225

Studies

Green Synthesis and Chemical Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles by Tribulus terrestris for the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction.

Summary

AgNPs exhibit cardioprotective properties on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and activating PPAR-γ, reducing inflammation and cell death. This research introduces a potential therapeutic approach for treating myocardial infarction.

Cardiology
Huang Y et al (2024).
Biol Trace Elem Res.
DOI:
10.1007/s12011-024-04336-9
PubMed:
39134771

The Combined Effect of Tribulus terrestris Hydroalcoholic Extract and Swimming Exercise on Memory and Oxidative Stress in Old Male Rats.

Immunology
Heydarnia Kalati Z et al (2024).
Exp Aging Res.
DOI:
10.1080/0361073X.2024.2377432
PubMed:
39074047

Comparable to 17α- methyl testosterone, dietary supplements of Tribulus terrestris and Mucuna pruriens promote the development of mono-sex, all-male tilapia fry, growth, survival rate and sex-related genes (Amh, Sox9, Foxl2, Dmrt1).

Summary

Researchers tested Tribulus terrestris and Mucuna pruriens supplements on young Nile tilapia. Both raised male traits and testosterone, with better growth and survival than 17α-methyl testosterone, showing potential for sex reversal in aquaculture.

EndocrinologyGenetics
Matter AF et al (2024).
BMC Vet Res.
DOI:
10.1186/s12917-024-04162-0
PubMed:
39026327

Rhabdomyolysis Risk: The Dangers of Tribulus Terrestris, an Over-the-Counter Supplement.

Huff R et al (2024).
Am J Case Rep.
DOI:
10.12659/AJCR.943492
PubMed:
39012853

The Effect of the Combination of Ginseng, Tribulus Terrestris, and L-arginine on the Sexual Performance of Men with Erectile Dysfunction: a randomized, double-blind, parallel, and placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Tahvilian R et al (2024).
J Pharmacopuncture.
DOI:
10.3831/KPI.2024.27.2.82
PubMed:
38948316

Tributelosides A-D: Four Undescribed Spirostan Glycosides Isolated from the Branches and Leaves of Tribulus terrestris with Their NO Production Inhibitory Activity in LPS Activated RAW 264.7 Cells.

Phytochemistry
Van Quoc N et al (2024).
Chem Biodivers.
DOI:
10.1002/cbdv.202401049
PubMed:
38757233

Tribulus terrestris and Sport Performance: A Quantitative and Qualitative Evaluation of Its Advertisement and Availability via Online Shopping in Six Different Countries.

Garcia JF et al (2024).
Nutrients.
DOI:
10.3390/nu16091320
PubMed:
38732566

Icarifil(®) in Association with Daily Use of Tadalafil (5 mg) versus Standard Tadalafil Daily Dose (5 mg) or Alone: Results from a Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial.

Cai T et al (2024).
J Clin Med.
DOI:
10.3390/jcm13092564
PubMed:
38731094

Tribuloside: Mechanisms and Efficacy in Treating Acute Lung Injury Revealed by Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation.

Yang Z et al (2024).
Dose Response.
DOI:
10.1177/15593258241251594
PubMed:
38725454

Efficacy of an Oral Solution Containing Five Herbal Extracts in the Treatment of Urolithiasis: A Randomized, Single-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial.

Samandarian S et al (2024).
J Res Pharm Pract.
DOI:
10.4103/jrpp.jrpp_11_24
PubMed:
38716323

Correction: Abbas et al. Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Cancer, and Toxicity Assessment of Tribulus terrestris-In Vitro and In Vivo Studies. Antioxidants 2022, 11, 1160.

Summary

They conducted a study on the effects of carbon nanotubes on cellular health. Important for understanding potential risks of nanomaterial exposure in lab settings.

CancerImmunology
Abbas MW et al (2024).
Antioxidants (Basel).
DOI:
10.3390/antiox13040471
PubMed:
38671949

Neuromodulatory effects induced by the association of Moringa oleifera Lam., Tribulus terrestris L., Undaria pinnatidifida extracts in the hypothalamus.

Summary

Study on herbal formulation with Rhodiola, Tribulus, Undaria & Moringa shows reduced serotonin & dopamine turnover, increased GnRH gene expression, and potential stress relief & libido enhancement. Promising for combating stress and fatigue.

EndocrinologyNeuroscience
Chiavaroli A et al (2024).
Chem Biodivers.
DOI:
10.1002/cbdv.202302075
PubMed:
38527165

"UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS-chemometrics-network pharmacology" integrated strategy to discover quality markers of raw and stir-fried Fructus Tribuli and process optimization of stir-fried Fructus Tribuli.

Wang S et al (2024).
Phytochem Anal.
DOI:
10.1002/pca.3339
PubMed:
38487966

The Effect of a Tribulus-Based Formulation in Alleviating Cholinergic System Impairment and Scopolamine-Induced Memory Loss in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Insights from Molecular Docking and In Vitro/In Vivo Approaches.

Bouabdallah S et al (2024).
Pharmaceuticals (Basel).
DOI:
10.3390/ph17020200
PubMed:
38399415

Promising phytopharmacology, nutritional potential, health benefits, and traditional usage of Tribulus terrestris L. herb.

Review
Saeed M et al (2024).
Heliyon.
DOI:
10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25549
PubMed:
38375303

In-depth investigation of the therapeutic effect of Tribulus terrestris L. on type 2 diabetes based on intestinal microbiota and feces metabolomics.

Summary

Researchers investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) fruit on diabetes. TT has been used in Tibetan medicine for centuries, but its mechanisms and effects on diabetes remained unknown.

DiabetesGastroenterology
Meng X et al (2024).
J Ethnopharmacol.
DOI:
10.1016/j.jep.2024.117815
PubMed:
38309487

In-vivo anti-hyperglycemic effect of herbal extracts Tribulus terrestris (L) and Curcuma amada (R) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and its associated histopathological studies.

Summary

This study found that a combined herbal extract of TT and CA effectively reduced blood glucose levels, increased insulin and glycogen levels, and decreased HbA1c, urea, and creatinine levels in diabetic rats. The extract could be a potential natural antidiabetic agent.

Diabetes
Kaliaperumal K et al (2024).
Heliyon.
DOI:
10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24009
PubMed:
38230238

Tribuloside acts on the PDE/cAMP/PKA pathway to enhance melanogenesis, melanocyte dendricity and melanosome transport.

Cao Y et al (2023).
J Ethnopharmacol.
DOI:
10.1016/j.jep.2023.117673
PubMed:
38158096

Copper oxide nanoparticles fabricated by green chemistry using Tribulus terrestris seed natural extract-photocatalyst and green electrodes for energy storage device.

Meena J et al (2023).
Sci Rep.
DOI:
10.1038/s41598-023-49706-w
PubMed:
38110542

Effect of Puncture Vine on Growth Performance, Carcass and Meat Traits, Metabolic and Immunological Blood Indicators, and Selected Cecal Microbiota in Broiler Chickens.

Gastroenterology
Al-Baadani HH et al (2023).
Animals (Basel).
DOI:
10.3390/ani13233708
PubMed:
38067059

Exploring the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of gross saponins of Tribulus terrestris L. fruit by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based cell metabolomics approach.

ImmunologyPhytochemistry
Xu X et al (2023).
J Sep Sci.
DOI:
10.1002/jssc.202300531
PubMed:
37933967

Dietary Supplement with Tribulus terrestris L. Extract Exhibits Protective Effects on Ischemic Stroke Rats.

Summary

Researchers found that gross saponins of Tribulus terrestris extract have a protective effect against ischemic stroke, although the mechanism is not fully understood. Relevant for potential stroke prevention strategies.

CardiologyNeuroscience
Guo W et al (2023).
Mol Nutr Food Res.
DOI:
10.1002/mnfr.202300447
PubMed:
37876150

Harder, better, faster, stronger? Retrospective chart review of adverse events of interactions between adaptogens and antidepressant drugs.

Summary

This study evaluated the prevalence and characteristics of adverse events associated with adaptogen-antidepressant interactions. Adaptogens were involved in 9% of adverse events. Clinicians should monitor these interactions due to the potential for clinically significant adverse events.

Neuroscience
Siwek M et al (2023).
Front Pharmacol.
DOI:
10.3389/fphar.2023.1271776
PubMed:
37829299

Study of the anti-inflammatory properties of a thick extract of Tribulus terrestris L.

Immunology
Yunusova S et al (2023).
Ceska Slov Farm.
PubMed:
37805264

Effects of Aphrodite (an Herbal Compound) on SSRI-Induced Sexual Dysfunctions and Depression in Females with Major Depressive Disorder: Findings from a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Summary

Aphrodite, an herbal blend, was found to improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction, depression, and anxiety in females with major depression disorder and SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. Additional research is needed to understand how Aphrodite achieves these effects.

Neuroscience
Shahmoradi N et al (2023).
Medicina (Kaunas).
DOI:
10.3390/medicina59091663
PubMed:
37763782

Do "testosterone boosters" really increase serum total testosterone? A systematic review.

Summary

52 studies on testosterone boosters were reviewed, revealing that most do not increase total testosterone. However, β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate and betaine proved effective for male athletes, and Eurycoma longifolia and Withania somnifera may be effective for other populations. This information should be considered for lab decisions.

Review Endocrinology
Morgado A et al (2023).
Int J Impot Res.
DOI:
10.1038/s41443-023-00763-9
PubMed:
37697053

What is the effect of Tribulus terrestris on testicular morphology and sperm production? An experimental study in the rat model.

Da Silva MHA et al (2023).
Asian J Androl.
DOI:
10.4103/aja202340
PubMed:
37695239

Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: Analysis of Marketed Products, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Rational Use.

Review
Petre GC et al (2023).
Nutrients.
DOI:
10.3390/nu15173677
PubMed:
37686709

Tribulus terrestris L. induces cell apoptosis of breast cancer by regulating sphingolipid metabolism signaling pathways.

Summary

Study investigated the effects of Tribulus terrestris extract on breast cancer. Provides evidence for the traditional use of TT as a potential treatment, highlighting its pharmacological activities in breast cancer.

Cancer
Zhao J et al (2023).
Phytomedicine.
DOI:
10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155014
PubMed:
37639811

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Anticancer Potentials of African Medicinal Fruits: A Comprehensive Review.

Summary

This review explores the use of African fruits in traditional medicine and their potential as anticancer agents. It emphasizes the importance of further research and suggests that these fruits could provide valuable phytochemicals for anticancer studies.

Review CancerEthnobotanyPhytochemistry
Fakudze NT et al (2023).
Pharmaceuticals (Basel).
DOI:
10.3390/ph16081117
PubMed:
37631032

Exploring the Use of Indigenous Wild Vegetables by the Basotho People of Southern Africa: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature and Nutritional Analysis of Selected Species.

Tshikororo RR, Ajao AA and Moteetee AN (2023).
Foods.
DOI:
10.3390/foods12142763
PubMed:
37509855

Promoting liver cancer cell apoptosis effect of Tribulus terrestris L. via reducing sphingosine level was confirmed by network pharmacology with metabolomics.

Summary

In this study, we explore the potential of a commonly used Chinese herb called L. (TT) in treating liver cancer. While it has been historically used for breast cancer, its effects on liver cancer have not been extensively investigated. By examining its pharmacological activities, we aim to uncover its anti-liver cancer properties and understand the underlying mechanisms. This research holds significance as it may provide valuable insights into the potential of TT extract as a novel treatment option for liver cancer.

Cancer
Zhao J et al (2023).
Heliyon.
DOI:
10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17612
PubMed:
37416661

Can flaxseed, chia or puncture vine affect mare ovarian cell functions and prevent the toxic effect of the environmental contaminant toluene?

Summary

This study shows that flaxseed, chia, and puncture vine can affect mare ovarian cell functions and their response to the contaminant toluene. Flaxseed and puncture vine can mitigate toluene's harmful effects.

Endocrinology
Sirotkin AV et al (2023).
Theriogenology.
DOI:
10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.018
PubMed:
37354861

Anatomical and histochemical characterization of some highly medicinal plants as a tool for quality control.

Dastagir G, Hussain F and Uza NU (2023).
Microsc Res Tech.
DOI:
10.1002/jemt.24369
PubMed:
37334760

Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using Tribulus terrestris Seeds: Revealed Promising Antidiabetic Potentials.

Diabetes
Rahman A et al (2023).
Molecules.
DOI:
10.3390/molecules28104203
PubMed:
37241943

Ligand-targeted fishing of α-glucosidase inhibitors from Tribulus terrestris L. based on chitosan-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes with immobilized α-glucosidase.

Meng X et al (2023).
Anal Bioanal Chem.
DOI:
10.1007/s00216-023-04666-y
PubMed:
37058167

Integrated LC-MS/MS and network pharmacology approach for predictingactive ingredients and pharmacological mechanisms of Tribulus terrestris L. against cardiac diseases.

Summary

This study identified active ingredients in the medicinal herb L. (Gokshura) that have potential to treat cardiac diseases. The compounds include Kaempferol 3-rutinoside 7-glucuronide, rutin, and quercetin-3-o-α-rhamnoside. Further research is needed to assess efficacy.

Cardiology
Vinay CM et al (2023).
J Biomol Struct Dyn.
DOI:
10.1080/07391102.2023.2199076
PubMed:
37042962

Corrigendum to "Protective effects of Tribulus terrestris and angiotensin blockers on testis steroidogenesis in copper overloaded rats", [Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf. volume 178 (2019) Pages 113-122].

Arafa MH et al (2023).
Ecotoxicol Environ Saf.
DOI:
10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114830
PubMed:
36996667

Tribulus terrestris aqueous extract supplementation effects on sperm characteristics and anti-oxidant status during chilled storage of canine semen.

Sabzeie MM et al (2023).
Vet Res Forum.
DOI:
10.30466/vrf.2022.546509.3347
PubMed:
36909682

Investigating the in vivo effect of Tribulus terrestris extract in MCAO rats by using LC-MS-based metabolomics combined with the molecular docking.

Li X et al (2023).
Biomed Chromatogr.
DOI:
10.1002/bmc.5614
PubMed:
36883198

Bioactive compounds from four Indian medicinal plants have different potency to induce sex reversal in Nile tilapia: A chromatographic, molecular docking and in silico analysis.

Mukherjee D et al (2023).
J Ethnopharmacol.
DOI:
10.1016/j.jep.2023.116263
PubMed:
36781056

The Hypoglycemic and Hypocholesterolemic Activity of Dioscorea deltoidea, Tribulus terrestris and Panax japonicus Cell Culture Biomass in Rats with High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity.

Summary

This study found that the suspension cell biomass of certain medicinal plant species can reduce weight gain, fat mass, and improve glucose and cholesterol levels in obese rats. It shows potential for safe and effective natural remedies for obesity.

DiabetesObesity
Povydysh MN et al (2023).
Nutrients.
DOI:
10.3390/nu15030656
PubMed:
36771371

Supplementation with Tribulus Terrestris Extract Exhibits Protective Effects on MCAO Rats via Modulating Inflammation-Related Metabolic and Signaling Pathways.

Immunology
Zhang H et al (2023).
ACS Omega.
DOI:
10.1021/acsomega.2c06625
PubMed:
36687021

Estimation of scopoletin from a polyherbal formulation composition using HPLC coupled with fluorescence detector through the concept of Design of Experiment.

Khushali K et al (2023).
Luminescence.
DOI:
10.1002/bio.4446
PubMed:
36657788

Xanthosine, a purine glycoside mediates hepatic glucose homeostasis through inhibition of gluconeogenesis and activation of glycogenesis via regulating the AMPK/ FoxO1/AKT/GSK3β signaling cascade.

GeneticsPhytochemistry
Ahmed SA et al (2023).
Chem Biol Interact.
DOI:
10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110347
PubMed:
36627075

Anthracnose of Tribulus terrestris Caused by Colletotrichum truncatum in Northeast China.

Guan YM et al (2022).
Plant Dis.
DOI:
10.1094/PDIS-09-22-2079-PDN
PubMed:
36383997

Fructose milieu undermines the therapeutic effect of Tribulus terrestris extract on neuroblastoma cell line via maintaining mitochondrial function.

Weng JR et al (2022).
Environ Toxicol.
DOI:
10.1002/tox.23632
PubMed:
36214339

Tribulus terrestris can suppress the adverse effect of toluene on bovine and equine ovarian granulosa cells.

Endocrinology
Fabová Z et al (2022).
Reprod Domest Anim.
DOI:
10.1111/rda.14204
PubMed:
35789053

Herbal Formulation Comprised of Methanol Extracts of Tribulus terristris L. and Zingiber officinale Roscoe Has Antihypertensive Effects.

Abbas K et al (2023).
Altern Ther Health Med.
PubMed:
34144527

Tribulus terrestris and female reproductive system health: A comprehensive review.

Review
Ghanbari A et al (2021).
Phytomedicine.
DOI:
10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153462
PubMed:
33602600

Tribulus Terrestris for Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.

Martimbianco ALC et al (2020).
Rev Bras Ginecol Obstet.
DOI:
10.1055/s-0040-1712123
PubMed:
32736394

A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Toxicological Properties of Tribulus terrestris L.

Review Phytochemistry
Ștefănescu R et al (2020).
Biomolecules.
DOI:
10.3390/biom10050752
PubMed:
32408715

Beyond tribulus (Tribulus terrestris L.): The effects of phytotherapics on testosterone, sperm and prostate parameters.

Review Endocrinology
Santos HO, Howell S and Teixeira FJ (2019).
J Ethnopharmacol.
DOI:
10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.033
PubMed:
30790614

Phytopharmacology of Tribulus terrestris.

Review
Shahid M et al (2016).
J Biol Regul Homeost Agents.
PubMed:
27655498

Dietary Adjuncts for Improving Testosterone Levels in Hypogonadal Males.

Review Endocrinology
Kovac JR et al (2016).
Am J Mens Health.
PubMed:
26272885

A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect.

Review
Qureshi A, Naughton DP and Petroczi A (2014).
J Diet Suppl.
DOI:
10.3109/19390211.2014.887602
PubMed:
24559105