Tribulus terrestris / Caltrop / Zygophyllaceae (Caltrop family)

Information

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Other Names

Puncture Vine, Caltrop, Yellow Vine, Goathead.

Contents

Tribulus terrestris contains several steroidal saponins such as cistocardin, diosgenin, tribuloin, hecogenin, dioscin, and ruscogenin. Tribulus terrestris also contains two beta-carbolines harmane and norharmane, as well as sugars, tannins and resins.(2)

Historical

Tribulus terrestris has a long history of use in Ayurvedic practise in India where it is known as "Gokshura". Its fruit has been used in Ayurveda for a variety of purposes. Recent research has isolated several steroidal saponins in Tribulus terrestris and has indicated that the herb possesses mild aphrodisiac properties.(3) Recently it has gained popularity among amateur body builders in the USA after its alleged use by strong man Jeffery Petermann.(1) Research has also indicated that Tribulus terrestris supports the urinary and reproductive system and supports kidney function.(4)(5) The herb is also beneficial in calming the mind and supporting the nervous system.(4)

Plant Description

Tribuls terrerstris is an annual or perennial plant that has several stems that emerge from the crown outwards to a diameter of between 10 cm to over 1m. Its stems often trail on the ground. Its leaves are pinnate and opposite to each other with between 3-8 leaflets that are less than a quarter inch long. Its flowers are bright yellow with five petals. The fruit of the plant is produced around one week after the flowers have blossomed and are made up of five seed pods which are hard a bear 2 to 3 sharp spines. The seeds of the plant are said to be viable for up to 3-7 years on average.(1)(2)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Norway

References

(1) Tribulus terrestris, Wikipedia
(2) Gokshura, (c) 2008 Todd Caldecott
(3) Aphrodisiac properties of Tribulus Terrestris extract (Protodioscin) in normal and castrated rats., Gauthaman, Aidakan, and Prasad (2003)
(4) The Yoga of Herbs, Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasantlad
(5) Tribulus for sexual dysfunction in men and women, Kerry Bone (2004)