Tribulus terrestris, or puncture vine, is traditionally used for its ability to stimulate libido and support fertility in both men and women, and modern research seems to back up this use. Studies have shown that Tribulus may indirectly support testosterone production, and may help support both sexual and athletic performance.*
Tribulus terrestris, when used in conjunction with DHEA and weight lifting, may support the integrity of muscles. Tribulus is thought to support luteinizing hormone (LH) production. LH acts as a “messenger” that signals the body to commence testosterone production from its precursors.*
Some studies have shown that daily intake of 750 mg of Tribulus results in support of healthy free Testosterone levels in males within five days.*
A recent rodent study examined Tribulus as a supporter of healthy sexual function. Sexual behavior and intracavernous pressure (ICP), a measure of blood flow into the corpus cavernosa of the penis, were studied in both normal and castrated rats to further understand the role of Tribulus as an aphrodisiac. Adult rats were divided into groups of 8 each to examine the effects of the following conditions: distilled water treatment of normal and castrated rats, testosterone treatment of normal and castrated rats andTribulus treatment of castrated rats. Compared to the castrated control, treatment of castrated rats with either testosterone or Tribulus extract showed an increase in prostate weight and ICP. There was also evidence to indicate a moderate improvement in sexual behavior as demonstrated by an increase in mounting frequency.*