Tribulus terrestris is an annual plant, widely distributed around the world. It grows in dry climates, where fewer other plants can survive. It has many common names, including puncture vine and is often referred to as an invasive species or noxious weed, partially due to its thumbtack-like burs.
It has been used for many centuries in both the Indian and Chinese systems of medicine for treatment of a variety of ailments. It contains many important plant chemicals, including flavonoids, flavonol glycosides, steroidal saponins and alkaloids, that assist with its wide scope of uses.
Specifically in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Tribulus terrestris is used:
To calm the Liver and anchor the yang
For headache, vertigo or dizziness related to excess liver yang
To dispel wind
To stop itching with any kind of skin lesion such as hives
To improve red, swollen and painful eyes; used to increase tearing; improve vision
For pain and distention in chest,
For irregular menstruation and insufficient lactation
MEDICINAL INGREDIENT — EACH VEGETARIAN CAPSULE CONTAINS:
Puncturevine 5:1 Extract (Tribulus terrestris) (Fruit) 250 mg (Equivalent to 1.25 g dried Tribulus terrestris Fruit Powder)
NON-MEDICINAL INGREDIENTS:
Rice Powder
Magnesium Stearate (Non-GMO Vegetable Source)
Hypromellose / Pullulan (Vegetarian Capsule)
RECOMMENDED DOSE — (ORAL) ADULTS ONLY:
Take 2 capsules three times per day.
DURATION OF USE:
Consult a health care practitioner for prolonged use.
CAUTIONS:
Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking any medications. Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Q: I’ve read Tribulus terrestris is used for bodybuilding. Is this supported by research? A: Though it is often touted for increasing testosterone levels and increasing body mass, the research does not support this. It does however show that tribulus terrestris may help improve libido and impotence.
Q: Is Tribulus terrestris only beneficial for men? A: No, it can also be useful for women. It has been shown to increase libido and sexual enjoyment in women with low sex drive as well. Its other known benefits can be useful to both women and men.
Q: Why is it called ‘puncture vine’? A: The spikes of the dried fruit are super sharp, and can cut into bare feet if you walk on them, or even bicycle tires if you ride over them.
Q: What else is puncture vine known as? A: It’s often referred to as goat head or cow hoof, as the little hard fruit has sharp spikes or spines that resemble hooves or horns.
Q: Where does Tribulus terrestris grow? A: It is native to the warm temperate and tropical regions of southern Eurasia, Africa, North America and Australia. Though since it’s so hardy, it’s become invasive, travelling from California northward to the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. It thrives in sandy soil, and along roadsides. Good reason to wear shoes when outdoors!
