AYURVEDA HERBS - Tribulus Terrestris

Gokshura (Njerinjil)

Gokshura is a creeper and is very effective against urogenital ailments, including kidney stones, cystitis (bladder infection) and infections. Gokshura stimulates urine flow, soothes and cools the mucous membranes of the urinary tract and facilitates the passing of stones.  The plant grows in many tropical and moderate areas of the world. Many different cultures have used it for a number of purposes. For example, the Greeks used Tribulus as a diuretic and a mood-enhancer. Indians used it as a diuretic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. The Chinese used it for a variety of liver, kidney, and cardiovascular diseases. The people of Bulgaria used Tribulus as a sex enhancer and to treat infertility.

Studies show that it works very well when stacked with DHEA and androstenedione. It increased testosterone levels in a different way, however, than either DHEA or andro do. Instead of being a testosterone precursor, it leads to the production of the luteinizing hormone (LH). When LH levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases. LH is a hormone that also deals with sex drive. Now one can understand why it has been used to increase fertility and help with impotence. Laboratory animal studies found that Tribulus terrestris increased sperm count as well as motility levels after taking it for 30 days. This is a good supplement for men and women to increase their sex drive. Most experts recommend experimenting with 750 to 1,250 mg per day, divided among meals.

As for side effects, about one in ten people have associated some gastrointestinal upset with taking Tribulus. Taking food with it can minimize these effects if you are that one in ten. Related to syrian rue and seeds reported to contain similar alkaloids, ie; beta-carboline alkaloids such as harmaline, though there is little direct phytochemical studies of Australian species.

Used in Ayurveda, sometimes in combination with Mucuna or cowhage, plant and dried spiny fruit are esteemed as cooloing, demulcent, diuretic, tonic and aphrodisiac.

Studies have shown a better than 50% increase in testosterone levels when taking the Tribulus herb. When scientists began studying the remarkable curative power of Tribulus, they discovered that it significantly elevates the level of several hormones: Testosterone; Luteinizing Hormone (LH is a gonad stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol. A significant benefit of Tribulus is the stimulation of hormone production to a balanced level, without over stimulating the secretion of hormones. The liver is a major synthesizer of hormones. The hormones are synthesized from cholesterol, so a herb such as Tribulus that has a stimulating effect on the liver will have a major influence on cholesterol and other products of the liver. Tribulus' role as a liver tonic is very important - breaking down the cholesterol and fats that inhibit healthy liver function. The cholesterol and fats are converted to hormones and energy resulting in increased performance and stamina.

This role of improving liver function, stamina and endurance is particularly beneficial to athletes and bodybuilders. The increase in testosterone levels by Tribulus will promote protein synthesis, positive nitrogen balance as well as faster recuperation and recovery from muscular stress. Tribulus therefore has a positive effect on strength and stamina.

Combines well for different conditions with ashwagandha (Withana somnifera), guduchi (Tinospora cordifolis), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), asoka (Saraca indica), ginger, and licorice root.

No adverse effects to the central nervous or cardiovascular systems were noted in any of the clinical studies; no toxicity and no deviations in blood count occurred. No known negative effects presently exist when Tribulus is used as a dietary supplement. Tribulus exhibits a mild diuretic effect.

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