Tribulus terrestris (Bulgarian tribulus, devil’s thorn, cat’s head, devil’s weed, goat head, Puncture Vine, gokhru) is an annual herb, which belongs to the Caltrop Family. It is native to tropical and warm climates of southern Asia, Africa, Australia and southern Europe. In warm climate tribulus grows as a perennial plant. This herb can survive even in desert conditions. It has yellow flowers and fruit that consist of 5 nutlets, which look like goat’s head. In Latin the word “tribulus” means “caltrop”, in Greek- “water chestnut”. Since ancient times tribulus was known as fertility herb, which was used by men and women. Nowadays fruit, leaves, seeds and root are used in medicine for the following purposes:
- kidney disorders;
- urinary tract disorders;
- psoriasis;
- eczema;
- scabies;
- heart problems;
- circulatory system problems;
- high blood pressure;
- high cholesterol level;
- chest pain;
- anemia;
- flatulence;
- digestion disorders;
- constipation;
- intestinal worms;
- stomatitis;
- inflammation;
- sore throat;
- cancer;
- slow milk flow;
- loss of appetite;
- joint pain;
- leprosy;
- vertigo;
- headache.
The most used parts are seeds and root. They can be dried, powdered, used in capsules or as an herbal tea. It is said that tribulus terrestris extract is used to increase testosterone level, build muscle, that’s why it is often used by body builders.
Taking tribulus internally for a short period of time is safe. But sometimes it may cause stomach upset, increase the size of prostate and affect blood sugar level. Pregnant and breast-feeding women are not recommended to use tribulus.