Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects

Tribulus terrestris is the scientific name of a herbal supplement. It is commonly known as puncture vine or Caltrop. It is a perennial herb and it belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. It can grow in a warm, desert climate and survives even in a poor soil condition. The regions where it is most commonly found are Africa, northern parts of Australia, southern part of Europe and parts of Asia. Normally, the height of this plant is not more than one meter. It grows flower that are small in size and faint yellow in color. Its fruit has a five angled shape and have spines on its surface. There are medicinal properties of tribulus terrestris, due to two active components of saponins present in its leaves. These steroidal saponins are - furostanol glycosides and spirostanol glycosides. In most cases, it has been seen that tribulus terrestris side effects is nothing very serious.

Health Benefits of Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and ayurveda since centuries. However, its use as a herbal medicine began somewhere in the 1970s. When it is taken as a herbal supplement, it increases the level of testosterone in human body, lower high blood pressure and improves blood circulation. All these properties help to treat different types of ailments including problems like low libido, cardiovascular disease, gout, etc.

It has some diuretic properties which help to improve the functioning of the kidneys. It is believed to have some antiseptic properties which is beneficial in curing infections in kidneys and urinary stone. Sometimes, athlete take it for the purpose of increasing the muscle mass. This is possible because an increase in testosterone facilitates muscle growth. It has been proved to have helped in lowering the cholesterol levels. Some minor problems like headache, eye problems like conjunctivitis and itching of the eyes can also be treated with tribulus terrestris. It has a positive effect on the overall immune system of our body.

Side Effects Associated with Tribulus Terrestris

The most common side effects which have been observed in people taking tribulus terrestris is stomach upset and nausea feeling. However, it is a temporary effect and can be controlled if taken with a meal. In some women, it has been observed that their voice have changed. Usually, the tone of the voice decreases. This may be caused due to the change in the levels of hormones in the body. Mood swings are another minor side effect. It shows up in the form of anger. In some people, it has been observed that excessive hair growth over the body and face takes place. Too much of testosterone is mainly responsible for this kind of a side effect. Lung damage is one of the rare side effects of this herb. However, in most such cases it has been found to occur due to eating of the fruit of the herb and not the processed extracts of the supplement.

The correct dosage of tribulus terrestris extract may vary in between 85 to 250 mg thrice daily along with meals. The exact dosage is ascertained by the doctor after examining the health condition of the person. In order to get maximum benefits from the intake of supplement, it should be accompanied by right kind of diet, proper exercise and adequate rest. However, if high dosage of this supplement is taken, then side effects of tribulus terrestris could be severe. It can damage the functioning of the brain, affect the function of the muscle and in worst cases, it can even lead to death.

When taken in right proportion the chances of any side effects becomes less. Therefore, it should be taken under medical supervision only. This medicine is strictly not recommended for children and pregnant women. Those with medical history of diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, high cholesterol should consult their concerned physician to check out if it is suitable for their health condition.