The Brain

The secret of the Zulus: tribulus terrestris increases libido

3 April 2024
Alex Schulz

Tribulus terrestris is an herb that has been praised for centuries for its potential to enhance sexual desire. Legends even suggest that the powerful Zulu king, Shaka Zulu, used this herb and may have owed his status and power to it. But what does modern science have to say about this fascinating herb?

What is Tribulus terrestris?

Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant species traditionally used in the traditional medicine of various cultures, including Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It is a herbaceous plant that mainly thrives in warm climates and grows in areas such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

The plant is known for its small yellow flowers and thorny fruits, which resemble small spiky balls. It is primarily the roots and fruit of Tribulus terrestris that are used for their purported medicinal properties.

In traditional medicine, Tribulus terrestris is often used to treat various health issues, including sexual dysfunction, fatigue, digestive problems, and inflammation. Today, it is also commonly promoted as a natural supplement to enhance libido and improve overall sexual health.

Tribulus terrestris and its effect on testosterone and libido

Recent research has shown that Tribulus terrestris can indeed increase libido, but not necessarily testosterone levels. Although Tribulus terrestris has long been used as a traditional aphrodisiac and promoted for its alleged ability to increase testosterone, various scientific studies have yielded mixed results.

Studies have shown that Tribulus terrestris supplements can in some cases improve sexual function and desire in both men and women. However, many of these studies have not shown a significant increase in testosterone levels in people taking Tribulus terrestris.

This suggests that the increased sexual drive may not be directly related to an increase in testosterone. Other mechanisms, such as improved blood circulation, increased dopamine production, or a general sense of well-being, may contribute to the observed effects of Tribulus terrestris on libido.

Research

Several studies have examined the effects of Tribulus terrestris on libido.

A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2014 investigated the effect of Tribulus terrestris supplements on sexual functioning in postmenopausal women. The results showed that women who received Tribulus terrestris experienced significant improvements in sexual desire and arousal compared to the placebo group.

Another study, published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2018, examined the effect of Tribulus terrestris on libido in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. The results showed that the group taking Tribulus terrestris supplements reported significantly improved scores for sexual desire and satisfaction compared to the placebo group.

A meta-analysis published in the journal The Aging Male in 2020 evaluated various studies on the effects of Tribulus terrestris on sexual function and libido in men with erectile dysfunction. The analysis concluded that Tribulus terrestris supplements had a positive effect on sexual function parameters, including libido, although the results were not consistent across all studies.

Conclusion

Although Tribulus terrestris has been used for centuries as a potential aphrodisiac and has a reputation as a natural libido enhancer, the results of scientific studies remain mixed. Research suggests that Tribulus terrestris can increase libido in both men and women, but the effects on testosterone often remain inconclusive. Perhaps the true power of Tribulus terrestris lies not only in boosting libido but also in the rich history and legends associated with it. Who knows, maybe the legendary Zulu king Shaka Zulu found a secret ingredient for his power and status in this humble herb.