Tribulus Terrestris
Hormone Support
Also known as: Puncture vine, Goat's head, Tribulus, Tribulus terrestris Extract (Fruit, 20% Protodioscin), Tribulus terrestris fruit extract
C
Grade C💊 250-750mg standardized extract daily🎯 8 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upStress & Mood+50 pts
Overview
Tribulus terrestris is a traditional plant extract standardized to protodioscin, a steroidal saponin claimed to support sexual function and athletic performance. Evidence for these effects remains limited and inconsistent, with most studies showing modest benefits at best.
Primary Uses
LibidoSexual functionTraditional vitalitySexual function and libidoAthletic performance and muscle buildingTestosterone supportAthletic performanceTestosterone support (claimed)
Frequently Asked About Tribulus Terrestris
How much Tribulus Terrestris should I take?
The typical effective range is 250-750mg standardized extract daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Tribulus Terrestris?
With meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Tribulus Terrestris with food?
Yes.
Does Tribulus Terrestris interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Blood pressure meds, Diabetes meds, and Lithium. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Tribulus Terrestris.
What does Tribulus Terrestris pair well with?
Tribulus Terrestris stacks well with Maca and Ashwagandha — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus Terrestris should be avoided or used with caution by people with Hormone-sensitive conditions (caution). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Tribulus Terrestris?
Most people tolerate Tribulus Terrestris well. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset and Sleep issues (some). Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
250-750mg standardized extract daily
Timing
With meals
With food
Yes
Duration
8-12 weeks cycles
Special Populations
Those seeking libido support
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Tribulus Terrestrisyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Search Tribulus Terrestris research
Mechanism of Action
- • May enhance libido
- • Traditional aphrodisiac
- • Does NOT significantly raise testosterone despite marketing
- • May support nitric oxide
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade C
Better evidence for libido than testosterone increase
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Does not significantly raise testosterone
Contraindications
- • Hormone-sensitive conditions (caution)
Common Side Effects
- • GI upset
- • Sleep issues (some)
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Avoid
Liver & Kidney Notes
Use caution
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Blood pressure meds
- • Diabetes meds
- • Lithium
🧪 Supplements
- • Stack with actual T-boosters if seeking that
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • With food
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
Don't expect testosterone increase
Best Goal Synergies
LibidoSexual function
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Standardized to saponins
- • Bulgarian source traditional
Standardization Markers
Saponin contentProtodioscin specifically
Adulteration risk
Moderate
Practical Notes
- • Primarily for libido, not testosterone
- • Overhyped for T-boosting
- • May help sexual function
Tags
libidotraditionalmale-healthvitalitytestosteronesports performancetraditional usesaponintraditional-usesexual-healthperformanceprotodioscin-standardized
Top Products with Tribulus Terrestris
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More in Hormone Support
Other ingredients in the Hormone Support category.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a traditional herbal remedy primarily used for menopausal symptom relief, with moderate clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for hot flashes and night sweats. Its mechanisms likely involve phytoestrogen activity and serotonergic pathways, though the active constituents remain incompletely characterized.
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
DHEA is an endogenous adrenal hormone and precursor to testosterone and estrogen, with declining levels in aging. Supplementation aims to restore youthful hormone levels and support energy, mood, and sexual function.
Dong Quai
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional Chinese medicinal root used to support women's health and hormonal balance, particularly during menopause and menstrual cycles. Scientific evidence for efficacy is mixed, with limited high-quality clinical trials.
Fadogia Agrestis
Nigerian shrub gaining popularity for testosterone. Limited human research, animal studies promising.
Fadogia Agrestis
African herb gaining popularity for testosterone support, though human evidence is limited.
Fenugreek
Seed extract that may support testosterone and libido. Also supports blood sugar.
Last reviewed: September 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, September). Tribulus Terrestris — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/tribulus-terrestris
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.