Tribulus Terrestris
Saponin-rich herb that consistently improves libido and sexual function, though evidence for testosterone elevation remains weak.
Tribulus Terrestris is a flowering plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for vitality and libido. Despite marketing claims, research does not support significant testosterone-boosting effects in healthy individuals. However, it does show consistent benefits for libido, sexual function, and may help with blood pressure and blood sugar. The active compounds include steroidal saponins, primarily protodioscin.
Increases sexual desire
May enhance NO production
May help regulate glucose
How Tribulus works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
250-750mg daily (standardized to 45-60% saponins)
Loading: Not required
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Extract standardized to 45-60% saponins (protodioscin) | Recommended |
| 🧪Whole herb powder (less potent) | Alternative |
Standardization to saponins/protodioscin content is important. Bulgarian-sourced tribulus is traditionally considered higher quality.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: 6-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
Note: Take with food for better absorption. Consistent daily use for several weeks needed to see effects.
Increased sexual desire in both sexes
Improved erectile function and arousal
Does not reliably increase testosterone
Good evidence for libido; don't expect testosterone changes
May have additive hypotensive effects
May enhance blood sugar lowering
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Avoid evening doses
Top studies from 40+ peer-reviewed papers
Vilar Neto JO et al. • Nutrients (2025)
“Conclusions: TT supplementation has a low level of evidence regarding its effectiveness in improving erectile function in men with erectile dysfunction, and no robust evidence was found for increasing testosterone levels.”
Petre GC et al. • Nutrients (2023)
“DSs marketed in Italy are usually blends of many substances that are frequently employed at a negligible dose or without any evidence.”
Sha'ari N et al. • Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology (2021)
“Preliminary evidence suggests that Tribulus terrestris and Panax ginseng may be effective as alternative treatments for FSD in a clinical setting.”
Suharyani S et al. • International journal of impotence research (2026)
“The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.”
Morgado A et al. • International journal of impotence research (2024)
“The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.”
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