Health supplements provide many different compounds, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are needed by the human body. Depending on the type of supplement and the sources it was derived from, the various benefits that can be gotten from these products range from better eyesight to improved mood, and many more.
It is important to know just what a supplement is designed for, what benefits to expect from its use, and any other pertinent information such as side effects and contraindications.
Here are some basic facts about tribulus terrestris extract that every consumer needs to know before taking it as a dietary supplement. These will help you form an educated decision regarding whether or not it will benefit you and if it is worth the try at all.
Tribulus Terrestris Facts
- It is a natural extract derived from a flowering herb that is known by many names: bindii, bullhead, burra gokharu, caltrop, cat's head, devil's eyelashes, devil's thorn, devil's weed, goathead, puncturevine, and tackweed. Since ancient times, it has been used to treat impotence in Eastern traditional medicine, particularly in China and in India.
- The active compounds in tribulus terrestris were identified as steroidal saponins called furostanol glycosides and spirostanol glycosides. These are found primarily in the leaves of the plant. Protodioscin, a natural testosterone precursor, is also known as an active ingredient in tribulus terrestris extract.
- It first became popular as a sports performance enhancer in the late eighties to the early nineties after it was known that European Olympic athletes used it to help their physical performance in sports.
- Bodybuilders and several other sportsmen use tribulus after post cycle therapy to bring their testosterone levels to normal.
- It is believed to increase the levels of luteinizing hormone, which is a stimulator of testosterone in the body, therefore increasing testosterone levels as well.
- Because of its effects on improving testosterone levels, it is also popular as a sexual performance enhancer as it is reported to improve libido.
- Several scientific studies have been performed to test the claims that tribulus terrestris increases testosterone levels in the body. A small scale human study concluded that it does not. A large scale human study demonstrated that it does have positive effects on testosterone increase. Several animal studies also prove that it is effective in raising testosterone levels.
- It is available as a dietary supplement in the form of pills that can be taken regularly to maintain sexual health and exercise stamina.
- It is not advised for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. It has also been reported to cause gynecomastia (breast enlargement) in men in isolated cases.
These quick facts about the health supplement tribulus terrestris will help you understand what it does in the body when ingested, why it is used, and for what purposes. If you believe that tribulus is beneficial for you, you can check out tribulus terrestris extract products and dietary supplements. Incorporation of this natural testosterone-enhancer can make a huge difference in your health by improving sexual drive, muscle growth, and physical strength.
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