Tribulus Terrestis is a medicinal plant that has been known to people for a very long time. The ancient Greeks used it as a diuretic and tonic drug, and the Indians used it as an antiseptic, the Chinese considered it a panacea and treated liver, heart, kidneys and other organs with the help of puncture vine (the more common name of Tribulus Terrestis). People of the Balkan countries used this plant in the treatment of male infertility.
Tribulus Terrestis grows in Africa, South Asia, Southern Europe and northern Australia. This plant contains a large number of active substances that affect the human body.
Athletes from Eastern countries used this plant when preparing for various competitions and championships. Thanks to the action of active substances of this plant, the athletes took first place in many competitions. After American athletes learned about this, Tribulus Terrestis was spread in the US and became very popular.
Tribulus Terrestis action
Tribulus Terrestis stimulates the body to produce testosterone. The effect of taking Tribulus Terrestis is similar to the effect of hormones DHEA (dihydroepiandrosterone) and androsterone. However, the mechanism of action of these drugs is significantly different. The hormone androsterone is a source of testosterone synthesis in the body. And Tribulus Terrestis increases the body's content of the luteinizing (interstitial cell-stimulating) hormone, which is involved in the synthesis of testosterone. Thus, Puncture vine stimulates the body to produce more testosterone.
Researches
Tribulus Terrestis studies were conducted in Canada and the USA to determine whether this plant stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone. The study was conducted on healthy men who received 750 mg of the drug per day. As a result, it was found that the amount of luteinizing hormone in men's organisms increased by 75%, and the amount of testosterone produced - by 40%.
Tribulus Terrestis and its effect on muscles
An increase in the level of luteinizing hormone and testosterone causes increased muscle growth and increased physical activity. Tribulus Terrestis also accelerates the anabolic processes in the body, accelerates reparative processes (wound healing), improves libido, accelerates the process of recovery of the body after physical exertion.
However, many specialists, for the expressed growth of muscle mass, recommend taking Tribulus Terrestis drugs simultaneously with DHEA, androstenedione or other similar hormonal preparations.
How to take Tribulus Terrestis
An important aspect in taking drugs from this plant is that it must be taken by courses. Experts recommend taking the drug for maximum 6 weeks. At this time, you need to have intense physical activity in order to stimulate the growth of muscle mass. The drug is taken in a dose of 750 mg per day, the maximum daily dose is 1250 mg per day.
After 6 weeks of taking the drug you should take a break of 2-4 weeks. With a constant intake of the drug for more than 6 weeks, there is a risk of causing significant harm to health.
Side effects
The main side effect of Tribulus Terrestis drugs is a digestive disorder. Most often, this effect can be caused by improper intake of the drug, or poor quality of the drug.
Be sure to consult your pphysician and trainer before taking the drug.
Tribulus Terrestis is contraindicated for women and men with prostate hypertrophy.