Testosterone & Hormonal
Tribulus Terrestris
Decades of marketing as a testosterone booster, but human RCTs in healthy men consistently show no significant testosterone increase. Has genuine evidence for libido improvement independent of testosterone.
Effective Dose
750–1500mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Limited
Testosterone & Hormonal
Mechanism
Proposed LH stimulation — not consistently demonstrated in humans
primary action
Best For
Libido
Sexual function
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus terrestris is a plant used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. Protodioscin (a steroidal saponin) is the primary active claimed to raise LH and testosterone. Multiple well-controlled human trials have failed to demonstrate testosterone increases in healthy men, though libido improvement independent of testosterone changes has been observed.
How It Works: The Science
Animal studies show LH-mediated testosterone increases at high doses. Human pharmacology is inconsistent — protodioscin content varies dramatically between products and the LH-stimulating pathway has not been reliably replicated in healthy human males. Libido effects may be centrally mediated (androgen receptor modulation in the brain) rather than via testosterone elevation.
Primary Mechanism
Proposed LH stimulation — not consistently demonstrated in humans
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
750–1500mg / day
750–1500mg/day standardised to 40–60% saponins (protodioscin). Effect on testosterone in healthy men: do not expect it.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Well tolerated at standard doses. High doses (animal studies) associated with liver and kidney damage — not reported at human supplemental doses. Potential interaction with heart medications.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Those seeking libido support independent of testosterone — may genuinely improve sexual desire and satisfaction without hormonal mechanism. Not worth purchasing for testosterone elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →