Tribulus Terrestris: Clinical Evidence & Substantiation Summary
What Is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus terrestris is a plant traditionally used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for vitality and reproductive health. Clinical evidence shows mixed results for testosterone but consistent benefits for sexual function and libido.
Mechanism of action: Tribulus saponins (particularly protodioscin) may enhance androgen receptor density and sensitivity. It supports nitric oxide production via endothelial function. Despite marketing claims, most clinical trials show no significant effect on serum testosterone levels in healthy men.
Clinical Evidence Summary
Below are 3 key clinical studies on Tribulus Terrestris. Nutra Comp analyses 19+ studies in its full clinical evidence report.
Tribulus terrestris for sexual dysfunction: a systematic review
Population: 11 RCTs
Key finding: Tribulus supplementation improved sexual desire and satisfaction scores in both men and women, though effect sizes were modest (SMD 0.42, p=0.02).
Effect of Tribulus on testosterone levels: a meta-analysis
Population: 7 RCTs, 284 men
Key finding: Tribulus did NOT significantly increase total testosterone (WMD: 0.32 nmol/L, p=0.45) in healthy men across pooled trials.
Tribulus terrestris and female sexual function
Population: 60 menopausal women
Key finding: 750 mg/day Tribulus for 120 days significantly improved desire, arousal, and satisfaction domains of the FSFI (p<0.01).
Evidence-Based Structure–Function Claims
Sample FDA-compliant structure–function claims generated by Nutra Comp, each linked to clinical evidence and scored for confidence.
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Key Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tribulus increase testosterone?
Meta-analyses show Tribulus does NOT significantly increase testosterone in healthy men. Its sexual health benefits appear to work through other mechanisms, including nitric oxide support and androgen receptor sensitivity.
What are the most studied benefits?
The strongest evidence supports Tribulus for sexual desire and satisfaction in both men and women, rather than testosterone enhancement.
What dosage is used in clinical studies?
Most studies use 250–1,500 mg/day of extract standardised to 45% saponins. Sexual function studies typically use 750–1,500 mg/day.
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