Tribulus Terrestris supports the build-up of lean muscle mass, boosts physical strength, acts as an aphrodisiac and supports sexual health, helps normalise blood sugar and cholesterol, supports healthy blood pressure, balances fluids in the body, soothes inflammation, aids digestion, supports liver regeneration, promotes circulation and fat burning, while also possessing calming properties and a host of other benefits for human health.
In Bulgaria and in traditional Bulgarian medicine, the herb Tribulus Terrestris is known not only as "Puncture Vine", but also by its many folk names such as "Devil's Thorn", "Cat's Head", "Bull's Head", "Goat's Head", "Devil's Eyelash", "Caltrop", "Gokshura" and others.
What else will we learn about the benefits of Tribulus Terrestris?
Chemical Composition
The herb Tribulus Terrestris is exceptionally rich in over 70 biologically active substances:
- Steroidal saponins: The most important active constituents, responsible for a large part of the herb's beneficial effects.
- Protodioscin (the most important furostanol saponin): A key stimulant of hormonal activity and of the production of Luteinising Hormone (which regulates the synthesis of testosterone). It improves cell membrane permeability, immunity and cholesterol levels. The Bulgarian variety of the herb has been shown to have the highest protodioscin content.
- Dioscin and Diosgenin: Saponins with an influence on sexual activity and energy.
- Trillin, Gracillin, Gitogenin, Chlorogenin, Hecogenin.
- Flavonoids: These have antioxidant properties, protect cells from damage and support the cardiovascular system (Kaempferol, Astragalin, Tribuloside and Rutin).
- Alkaloids: Harman, Norharman and Tribulosterine - with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving action.
- Phytosterols: Beta-sitosterol, Stigmasterol and Campesterol - which strengthen the cardiovascular system and help regulate cholesterol.
- Tannins: With antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that support the immune and digestive systems.
- Phenolic acids: Terrestroside A and Terrestroside B.
- Organic acids: Cinnamic acid, Vanillic acid and others.
- Amino acids: Alanine, Threonine and others.
- Polyphenols and Coumaroylquinic acids
- Fatty oils
- Macro-elements and Micro-elements: Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn), Barium (Ba), Selenium (Se).
- Vitamin C
A number of studies indicate that this powerful complex of bioactive plant substances is involved in a range of processes in the human body.
How the Herb Works
It is believed that the beneficial effect of Tribulus Terrestris on sexual function results from the relaxation of the smooth muscle of the male organ (the penis) and increased pressure in the erectile tissues of the female organ (the vagina), as well as better circulation following its use.
These effects are driven by increased release of nitric oxide from the endothelium of the blood vessels.
Tribulus Terrestris:
- Supports faster recovery of the body after competitive effort, which makes it especially suitable for professional athletes
- Supports hormonal balance in both sexes, in a natural and gentle way for the body
- Helps boost libido and potency
- Helps lower levels of "bad" cholesterol
- Supports the reduction of severe menstrual pain and raises oestrogen levels
- Has a positive effect on the reproductive system in both sexes
Other benefits:
- Cardiovascular problems
- Gallbladder problems
- Diabetes
- Migraines
- Joints and arthritis
- Perimenopause and menopause
- Skin problems
- Ailing kidneys
- Hormonal imbalance
- Gynaecological problems
Cvetita Herbal
Benefits traditionally associated with tribulus
Supports the Build-up of Lean Muscle Mass ✔️
According to studies, taking Tribulus Terrestris significantly increases muscle size in active athletes thanks to its content of the steroidal saponin (C27H44O2) - Protodioscin (C51H84O22).
Protodioscin is thought to promote the release of nitric oxide, which in turn increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles and allows better use of nutrients such as protein. At the same time, protodioscin stimulates the pituitary gland, leading to the production of Luteinising Hormone (LH) and thereby encouraging higher testosterone levels.
Supports Physical Strength ✔️
According to studies, taking Tribulus Terrestris significantly increases both strength and muscle size in active athletes.
Tribulus-based supplements significantly support a reduction in body weight by reducing fat and helping to build muscle mass.
Aphrodisiac and Libido ✔️
Scientific research indicates that extract of the herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) improves sexual drive and appetite, and also has a beneficial effect on men with symptoms of erectile dysfunction. The herb Puncture Vine (Tribulus Terrestris) boosts sexual desire and libido in women suffering from sexual dysfunction. It is important to note that the key word here is "dysfunction".
The benefits of the herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) are most pronounced where sexual function is reduced, while overdosing or an over-the-top effect from use is unlikely.
In addition, tribulus is a proven means of balancing male hormones, as a result of which libido also grows. Scientific research indicates that the plant has the ability to raise testosterone levels. <1>
Although tribulus is taken mainly to boost libido and raise testosterone levels, the herb has also demonstrated the following important effects on human health.
Supports Male Sexual Health ✔️
Scientific research shows that one of the main phytochemical compounds of tribulus, "Protodioscin", helps increase the production of Nitric Oxide (NO) - a key element of erection, allowing a continuous flow of blood to that area.
According to experts, the herb Tribulus Terrestris stimulates the production of sex hormones without affecting other body systems.
Several independent studies show that tribulus raises Luteinising Hormone (LH), increasing free testosterone levels in healthy men.
In a scientific study, men with reduced sexual desire were given tribulus supplements in doses between 750 and 1,500 mg. After two months, their sexual desire was found to have increased by 79% <4>.
Supports Female Sexual Health ✔️
In a study, 67% of women with very low libido experienced increased sexual desire after taking supplements of 500 to 1,500 mg over 90 days <5>.
Although Tribulus Terrestris is most often regarded as a "male" herb, various studies show a positive effect on female sexual health as well.
Other studies also report that supplements with Tribulus Terrestris increase sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction in women with low libido.
Tribulus has been found to ease the symptoms of menopause - hot flushes, low mood and emotional instability. Regular use of the herb Puncture Vine during menopause may help address a loss of sexual interest.
A study found that tribulus improved sexual desire in 49 of 50 women. Another study reported that intake of Puncture Vine by women led to greater sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction compared with a focus group of women taking a placebo.
This powerful herb has been found to stimulate the androgen receptors in the brain and to help the body respond positively to hormones such as testosterone. Although testosterone is associated with men's health, free testosterone production in women also has a positive effect on libido.
Supports Blood Sugar Control ✔️
Puncture Vine (Tribulus Terrestris) helps reduce blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.
- One study examined the effects of taking 1,000 mg of Tribulus Terrestris daily in 98 women with type 2 diabetes. After three months, the women taking the supplement showed lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels compared with those taking a placebo <2>.
- Animal studies also show that tribulus may lower blood sugar levels, help protect against damage to the blood vessels and prevent a rise in blood cholesterol <3>.
Antioxidant Properties ✔️
The herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory healing properties and is rich in substances that:
- Neutralise free radicals
- Increase the activity of superoxide dismutase (a key enzyme in the body's enzymatic antioxidant system)
- Suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines (including TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10)
- Help prevent damage to the cells of the kidneys, heart, liver and brain <6>, <7>.
Supports Digestion ✔️
Both as a tea and as an extract, Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) relieves a range of digestive problems by naturally normalising the gut microbiota.
- Improves the absorption of nutrients.
- Relieves digestive problems such as bloating, constipation and gas, thereby promoting better digestion and gut health.
- Stimulates the release of digestive juices.
- The saponins (the main active compounds in tribulus) soothe spasms of the smooth muscle, which helps with colic and stomach pain.
- Supports metabolism.
- Its detoxifying properties flush toxins from the body and contribute to the overall health of the digestive system.
- Increases appetite (especially according to Ayurvedic medicine).
Supports Liver Function ✔️
The herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) exhibits beneficial properties for the recovery of the liver.
Traditionally Associated with Lipid Balance ✔️
The herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) helps regulate levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol.
Traditionally Associated with a Calming Action ✔️
The herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) helps with disturbed or poor-quality sleep by relieving nervous tension and anxiety.
Supports Circulation ✔️
The herb Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) has been shown to improve circulation in the limbs and the function of the peripheral nervous system, while at the same time balancing blood pressure.
Supports Fat Burning ✔️
According to a scientific study, supplements based on Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) significantly support a reduction in body weight by reducing fat and helping to build muscle mass. (NIH)
Taking Puncture Vine (Tribulus Terrestris) reinforces the natural processes that lead to an increase in muscle and the burning of fat.
Traditionally Associated with Vascular Tone ✔️
Studies indicate that the use of Puncture Vine (Tribulus Terrestris) contributes to lowering high blood pressure.
Balances Fluids in the Body - Diuretic Action ✔️
The active and anti-inflammatory components in Tribulus Terrestris have been shown to successfully manage urinary inflammation and reduce swelling. This herb has the quality of supporting the processes of urine production and is therefore exceptionally beneficial for the excretory system.
Thanks to this advantage, the processes of eliminating substances unnecessary for the metabolism (toxins) are encouraged. It has been found that, in addition to reducing inflammatory processes, tribulus has a strong diuretic action, through which it supports the removal of excess water from the body, which in turn also leads to the loss of water retained in the body.
Risks and Contraindications
Clinical studies of saponin intake at doses of 700 to 1,500 mg per day showed no side effects over a period of up to 3 months.
- Rare cases of abdominal pain, intestinal cramps and diarrhoea.
- Some clinical cases describe serious lung problems following ingestion of the fruit of Puncture Vine.
- Pregnancy and intake of Puncture Vine may pose a risk.
- It is recommended to stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgical operations and procedures.
Tests on rodents with large doses of 500 mg/kg of body weight, for which the human equivalent is around 80 mg/kg, over a period of 4 weeks did not cause toxic effects.
Interactions with Medicines
Consultation with your doctor is essential if you are taking any of the following medicines!
- Lithium (Li) - Tribulus Terrestris (Puncture Vine) has a diuretic effect and speeds up the rate at which lithium is removed from the body, which may reduce the medicine's effectiveness or lead to unwanted effects.
- Diabetes and anti-diabetic agents - Tribulus Terrestris lowers blood sugar levels, and taking it together with diabetes medicines may lead to a dangerous drop in blood glucose.
- Blood pressure and antihypertensives - Tribulus Terrestris may interact with medicines for high blood pressure.
Scientific research and sources:
<1> Neychev V, Mitev V. Pro-sexual and androgen enhancing effects of Tribulus terrestris L.: Fact or Fiction. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016 Feb 17;179:345-55. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.12.055. Epub 2015 Dec 28. PMID: 26727646.
<2> Samani NB, Jokar A, Soveid M, Heydari M, Mosavat SH. Efficacy of the Hydroalcoholic Extract of Tribulus terrestris on the Serum Glucose and Lipid Profile of Women With Diabetes Mellitus: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2016 Oct;21(4):NP91-7. doi: 10.1177/2156587216650775. Epub 2016 Jun 2. PMID: 27255456.
<3> Tuncer MA, Yaymaci B, Sati L, Cayli S, Acar G, Altug T, Demir R. Influence of Tribulus terrestris extract on lipid profile and endothelial structure in developing atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta of rabbits on a high-cholesterol diet. Acta Histochem. 2009;111(6):488-500. doi: 10.1016/j.acthis.2008.06.004. Epub 2009 Mar 9. PMID: 19269683.
<4> Protich M, Tsvetkov D, Nalbanski B, Stanislavov R, Katsarova M. Klinichno izpitvane na preparata tribestan pri infertilni mŭzhe
<5> Neychev V, Mitev V. Pro-sexual and androgen enhancing effects of Tribulus terrestris L.: Fact or Fiction. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016 Feb 17;179:345-55. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.12.055. Epub 2015 Dec 28. PMID: 26727646.
<6> Najafi H, Firouzifar MR, Shafaat O, Changizi Ashtiyani S, Hosseini N. Protective effects of Tribulus terrestris L extract against acute kidney injury induced by reperfusion injury in rats. Iran J Kidney Dis. 2014 Jul;8(4):292-8. PMID: 25001135.
<7> Reshma PL, Lekshmi VS, Sankar V, Raghu KG. Tribulus terrestris (Linn.) Attenuates Cellular Alterations Induced by Ischemia in H9c2 Cells Via Antioxidant Potential. Phytother Res. 2015 Jun;29(6):933-43. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5336. Epub 2015 Apr 8. PMID: 25858861.
The plant's names — why it appears under five different labels
One and the same plant, many names — and this is the cause of much of the confusion when buying.
- Tribulus terrestris — the Latin botanical name you will see on the label.
- Tribulus — the shortened form commonly used in commerce.
- Puncture Vine — one of the most widespread common names, owing to its spiny fruits.
- Caltrop — another common name, found in many parts of the world.
- Goat's head, bindii — rarer local names.
The practical point: if you are comparing two products and one says "puncture vine" while the other says "Tribulus terrestris", this is not a difference in content. The difference lies elsewhere — in the part of the plant used and in the standardisation.
Protodioscin and the saponins — the one figure that matters
The active compounds in tribulus are steroidal saponins, the most discussed of which is protodioscin. This is where the whole difference lies between two products that look identical on the shelf.
Why the percentage matters more than the milligrams
"900 mg of tribulus" tells you almost nothing. If it is 900 mg of ground fruit powder, the saponin content is low. If it is 900 mg of extract standardised to 40% saponins, the amount of active substances is of an entirely different order. The two products may cost much the same yet differ many times over.
What to look for on the label
- A stated saponin percentage — usually between 20% and 90% in standardised extracts.
- An explicit mention of protodioscin, if the manufacturer measures it separately.
- The part used — fruit, aerial part or root. The saponin content differs between them.
- The extraction ratio for extracts.
The part of the plant
The different parts are not equal in composition. A serious manufacturer states which one it uses; the absence of this information usually means the cheaper raw material has been used.
Bulgarian tribulus — why its origin is mentioned so often
Tribulus grows all across the Mediterranean, in Asia, Africa and Australia. Its composition, however, is not the same everywhere — the saponin content depends on the climate, the soil, the altitude and the time of harvest. Plants of the same species but from different latitudes yield raw material with a different profile.
Bulgarian tribulus is sought after on the international market precisely for this reason — the local conditions and the long-established tradition in growing and processing it. A large part of the research into the plant during the second half of the 20th century was carried out in Bulgaria and neighbouring countries, which has further cemented its reputation.
For the buyer this means one practical thing: ask about the origin of the raw material. A product that does not say where the plant comes from usually has a reason for not saying.
In what forms it is available
Capsules and tablets with standardised extract
The most common form. The advantage is an accurate, repeatable dose; check the saponin percentage, not just the milligrams.
Liquid extract
Allows flexible dosing and is easily combined with other herbs. It has a pronounced taste, which some people dilute.
Ground fruit powder
The cheapest form and the closest to traditional use, but with the most unpredictable content of active substances.
Combination formulas
Tribulus is often found together with rhaponticum (maral root), maca, ginkgo biloba or zinc. Here the general rule applies: check where tribulus sits in the ingredient list. If it is last, it is a highlight in the advertising, not in the product.
How it is taken
Usual amounts
The amount depends entirely on the concentration, so the instructions on the specific pack are the only reliable guide. With standardised extracts, the usual daily intake is split in two — morning and afternoon.
With or without food
It is usually taken with a meal. Some people report stomach discomfort when taking it on an empty stomach.
Cyclical use
The established practice is in cycles — a period of intake followed by a break. The usual scheme is around 8 to 12 weeks of intake and 2 to 4 weeks of rest.
How to recognise quality tribulus — a checklist
- Is there a saponin percentage? If it is missing, the product is hiding the most important figure.
- Is the part of the plant used stated?
- Is the origin of the raw material stated?
- Where does tribulus sit in the ingredient list? Ingredients are listed in descending order by quantity.
- Are there added stimulants? Some "testosterone" formulas owe their effect to caffeine rather than to the herb.
- Is the language realistic? Promises of guaranteed and rapid results are a signal to be cautious.
- Is there a batch number and a use-by date? A basic sign of traceable manufacture.
Tribulus and testosterone — what can and cannot be claimed
This is the topic surrounded by the most marketing noise, so it deserves an honest answer.
Tribulus is a plant and, as such, has no authorised health claim in the European Union. This means that no product is permitted to state that it raises testosterone — regardless of what the advertising says. Research on the plant yields mixed results and does not allow for a clear-cut conclusion.
What remains true: tribulus has a long tradition of use by men who care about their physical form and vitality, and it continues to be among the most sought-after herbs in this category. Formulas that also contain zinc can legitimately speak of testosterone — because zinc has an officially authorised claim for the maintenance of normal blood testosterone levels. The distinction is not a play on words: it shows where the basis for the claim comes from.
Who should take care
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women — not recommended.
- People with hormone-dependent conditions — a doctor's consultation is essential.
- People with kidney problems — discuss with a doctor before use.
- People on medication — possible interactions, including with anti-diabetic agents, antihypertensives and diuretics.
- Before surgery — it is usually recommended to stop in advance.
- Children and adolescents — not recommended.
The information in this article is for educational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Tribulus is the foundation, but rarely the whole answer
After 35-40, part of the testosterone is converted into oestrogen — via the enzyme aromatase. That is why nettle root and adaptogens are traditionally added to tribulus. The TLZ Protocol 50 brings them together in three separate formulas.
See the TLZ Protocol 50Frequently Asked Questions
Are puncture vine and tribulus the same thing?
Yes. "Puncture vine" is a common name for Tribulus terrestris. There is no difference in the plant — only in the name on the label.
How long is tribulus taken for?
The usual practice is cycles of 8 to 12 weeks, followed by 2 to 4 weeks' rest. Indefinite daily use without reassessment is not a recommended approach.
Morning or evening?
The daily amount is usually split in two — morning and afternoon, with a meal. Taking it late in the evening is avoided by people who report difficulty falling asleep.
Can women take tribulus?
Yes, the plant is traditionally used by women too, and there are formulas developed specifically for them. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take it.
What saponin percentage is good?
Standardised extracts on the market range between 20% and 90%. A higher percentage means more active substances per gram, but also a smaller amount per dose — compare the total amount of saponins per daily dose, not just the percentage.
Can it be combined with other herbs?
Yes — combinations with rhaponticum, maca and ginkgo biloba are traditional. Be careful not to take several complexes at once, so that ingredients are not duplicated.
Does tribulus have side effects?
In sensitive people, stomach discomfort is reported, especially when taken on an empty stomach. If complaints arise, intake is stopped and advice is sought.
Why does the price vary so much?
Because "tribulus" on the label covers everything from ground fruit powder to a standardised extract with a high saponin content. The price follows the concentration and the origin of the raw material, not the weight of the pack.