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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Caffeine vs Tribulus: Caffeine has the stronger overall evidence (9.5 vs 5.5/10); they're alternatives for boost daily energy — the best pick depends on your goals. Take the 60-second quiz for a pick tailored to your goals.
Caffeine wins 1 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Likely helps
29 of 35 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
4 of 4 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
100-200mg
Morning, 30-60 minutes before exercise
Pill/capsule for precise dosing
250-750mg daily (standardized to 45-60% saponins)
With meals, Morning or divided doses
Extract standardized to 45-60% saponins (protodioscin)
15-45 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
2-4 weeks
4-8 weeks
N/A
Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on the Fat Oxidation Rate during Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2020) · Meta analysis · n=2020
A subsequent meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD).
The effects of caffeine intake on weight loss: a systematic review and dos-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2019) · Meta analysis · n=606
Thirteen RCTs with 606 participants were included in the meta-analyses.
Effect of Caffeine and Nitrates Combination on Exercise Performance, Heart Rate and Oxygen Uptake: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2024) · Meta analysis · n=95
The meta-analysis revealed that caffeine and nitrates supplementation (CAF+nitrates) did not enhance performance in time trials (TTs) over the CAF alone (g = -0.06; 95% CI = -0.46 to 0.35; p = 0.78) or nitrates alone (g = 0.29; 95% CI = -0.12 to 0.70; p = 0.17).
Effects of Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris L.) Supplementation on Erectile Dysfunction and Testosterone Levels in Men-A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Nutrients (2025) · Systematic review · n=172
The Jadad score revealed low methodological quality for 50% of the studies.
Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: Analysis of Marketed Products, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Rational Use
Nutrients (2023) · Meta analysis
Based on the scoring system, 2 (8%) supplements matched with the cluster of higher expected efficacy, 3 (12%) with the lower efficacy cluster and 20 (80%) matched with the criterion of no expected efficacy.
Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology (2021) · Meta analysis · n=536
Tribulus terrestris showed a significant positive effect in improving overall female sexual function (SMD = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.46 - 1.79, p = 0.001) compared to placebo.
Based on multiple meta-analyses showing 3-6mg/kg optimal dosing. Performance benefits plateau around 200-300mg with increased jitteriness at higher doses.
Based on systematic review showing improvement in 3 of 5 studies at 400-750mg doses. Studies had low methodological quality (50% low Jadad scores). Effects primarily in men with existing ED.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Caffeine has a higher evidence score (9.5/10 vs 5.5/10) and wins in 1 of 3 categories.
For boost daily energy, Caffeine has a higher relevance score (98 vs 42).
No known interactions between Caffeine and Tribulus have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.
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The right pick depends on your goals. Answer a few quick questions for a personalised recommendation — or dig into the full evidence on each.