• Table of Contents

  • Anabolic Action of Tribulus Terrestris in Sports
  • Pharmacokinetics of Tribulus Terrestris
  • Pharmacodynamics of Tribulus Terrestris
  • Real-World Examples
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Anabolic Action of Tribulus Terrestris in Sports

Tribulus Terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is commonly found in Asia, Africa, and Europe and has been used to treat various ailments such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, and cardiovascular diseases. However, in recent years, it has gained popularity in the sports world for its potential anabolic effects. In this article, we will explore the pharmacological properties of Tribulus Terrestris and its potential as a performance-enhancing supplement in sports.

Pharmacokinetics of Tribulus Terrestris

The active compounds in Tribulus Terrestris are saponins, which are steroidal glycosides. These saponins are responsible for the plant’s anabolic effects. When ingested, saponins are broken down into their active form, protodioscin, by the enzymes in the gut. Protodioscin is then absorbed into the bloodstream and reaches its target tissues, such as the muscles and testes.

Studies have shown that the bioavailability of protodioscin is low, with only 10-20% of the ingested dose reaching the bloodstream (Gauthaman et al. 2002). This is due to the rapid metabolism of protodioscin in the liver. However, this low bioavailability can be overcome by taking Tribulus Terrestris with a meal high in fat, as fat can increase the absorption of protodioscin (Gauthaman et al. 2002).

Pharmacodynamics of Tribulus Terrestris

The anabolic effects of Tribulus Terrestris are primarily attributed to its ability to increase testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth and repair, making it a popular target for athletes looking to enhance their performance. Studies have shown that Tribulus Terrestris can increase testosterone levels by stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland (Gauthaman et al. 2002). LH, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone in the testes.

In addition to increasing testosterone levels, Tribulus Terrestris has also been shown to improve muscle strength and endurance. A study conducted on elite male rugby players found that those who took Tribulus Terrestris for five weeks had a significant increase in muscle strength compared to the placebo group (Rogerson et al. 2007). This improvement in strength was attributed to the increase in testosterone levels and the plant’s ability to enhance protein synthesis in the muscles.

Real-World Examples

The use of Tribulus Terrestris as a performance-enhancing supplement is not limited to professional athletes. It has also gained popularity among recreational gym-goers and bodybuilders. Many bodybuilding forums and websites promote the use of Tribulus Terrestris as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. However, it is essential to note that the evidence supporting its anabolic effects is still limited, and more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.

One real-world example of the use of Tribulus Terrestris in sports is the case of Bulgarian weightlifters in the 1980s. It was reported that the Bulgarian weightlifting team used Tribulus Terrestris as part of their training regimen, and they dominated the sport during that time (Neychev and Mitev 2005). While this may seem like a compelling example, it is important to note that the Bulgarian weightlifters were also using anabolic steroids, making it difficult to determine the exact contribution of Tribulus Terrestris to their success.

Expert Opinion

While the evidence supporting the anabolic effects of Tribulus Terrestris is still limited, it is a promising supplement for athletes looking to enhance their performance naturally. Its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve muscle strength and endurance makes it a potential alternative to anabolic steroids. However, more research is needed to determine its long-term effects and safety profile.

Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist, believes that Tribulus Terrestris has the potential to be a game-changer in the sports world. He says, “The anabolic effects of Tribulus Terrestris are promising, and it could be a safer alternative to anabolic steroids. However, more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety before it can be widely recommended for use in sports.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tribulus Terrestris is a plant with potential anabolic effects due to its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve muscle strength and endurance. While its use as a performance-enhancing supplement is gaining popularity, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. As with any supplement, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Tribulus Terrestris into your training regimen.

References

Gauthaman, K., Adaikan, P.G., and Prasad, R.N.V. (2002). Aphrodisiac properties of Tribulus Terrestris extract (Protodioscin) in normal and castrated rats. Life Sciences, 71(12), 1385-1396.

Neychev, V.K., and Mitev, V.I. (2005). The aphrodisiac herb Tribulus Terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 101(1-3), 319-323.

Rogerson, S., Riches, C.J., Jennings, C., Weatherby, R.P., Meir, R.A., and Marshall-Gradisnik, S.M. (2007). The effect of five weeks of Tribulus Terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(2), 348-353.