Can Tribulus Terrestris Boost Your Testosterone Levels? Urologist Explains!

Summary

Dr. Vina Malik, a urologist, explores the effects of Tribulus terrestris on testosterone levels. Through a meta-analysis of four studies involving 300 men, she finds mixed results with three showing no significant testosterone increase and one indicating a 27% increase in a specific group with erectile dysfunction. Malik also reviews studies on Tribulus's impact on sexual function, noting improvements in erectile function and satisfaction without adverse effects. However, she remains unconvinced about its testosterone-boosting claims due to limited positive evidence and potential side effects.

Takeaways

• 🌿 Tribulus terrestris is a plant found in warm temperate and tropical regions, similar to fenugreek due to its high steroidal components.
• 📚 Dr. Vina Malik discusses Tribulus terrestris in the context of testosterone boosters and offers a free ebook with tips for better sex life.
• 🔍 A meta-analysis of four studies on Tribulus terrestris' impact on testosterone showed no significant difference in three studies, but one study with specific conditions showed a 27% increase.
• 👨‍🔬 The one positive study involved 70 men with erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms, suggesting potential benefits for sexual function.
• ⚠️ Concerns about testosterone supplements potentially worsening lower urinary tract syndrome have been debunked in recent studies.
• 🧬 Tribulus supplements may cause small elevations in liver enzymes, indicating a need for caution regarding liver health.
• 💊 A 2017 randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial showed significant improvements in sexual function scores and satisfaction with Tribulus terrestris supplementation.
• 📉 Despite some positive findings, the overall data on Tribulus terrestris' effect on testosterone levels is not encouraging, with few studies showing positive results.
• 🚫 Tribulus terrestris may have side effects such as stomach cramps, and there are case reports of kidney and liver failure associated with its use.
• 💊 Interaction with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and blood thinners, as well as lithium, is a potential concern with Tribulus terrestris supplementation.
• 🔗 Dr. Malik provides links to all the studies discussed in the video for further reading and encourages viewers to subscribe for more information on testosterone boosters.

Q & A

What is Tribulus terrestris and where is it commonly found?

Tribulus terrestris is a plant that is found in warm temperate and tropical areas such as Southeastern Asia and Africa. It is known for its high percentage of steroidal components, particularly protodioscin.

What is the purpose of the free ebook 'Better Sex Better Life' mentioned by Dr. Vina Malik?

The free ebook 'Better Sex Better Life' compiled by Dr. Vina Malik contains her top 10 tips to help improve pleasure and have the best sex of one's life.

What are the two types of Tribulus terrestris extracts mentioned in the script?

The two types of Tribulus terrestris extracts mentioned are TribGold, which contains 45% steroidal components, and Tribestan, which delivers 635 mg of furostanol saponins.

How many studies were included in the meta-analysis investigating Tribulus terrestris' impact on testosterone?

The meta-analysis included four major studies investigating the impact of Tribulus terrestris on testosterone.

What was the age range of the participants in the studies mentioned in the script?

The participants in the studies ranged from 18 to 65 years of age.

What was the duration of the supplementation in the studies investigating Tribulus terrestris' impact on testosterone?

The duration of supplementation in the studies varied from 4 weeks to up to 3 months.

What was the significant finding in the study that involved men with erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms?

The significant finding in that study was a 27% increase in total testosterone and an improvement in erectile function among the men who received Tribulus terrestris supplementation.

What is the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and why is it used in studies?

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is a validated questionnaire used to assess sexual function. It is considered a gold standard in such studies because it has been validated to show a correlation with erectile function.

What was the dosage of Tribulus terrestris given to the participants in the study involving men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction?

In that study, each participant in the treatment group received 500 milligrams of Tribulus terrestris three times a day for 12 weeks, totaling 1500 milligrams.

What are some potential side effects of Tribulus terrestris supplementation mentioned in the script?

Some potential side effects of Tribulus terrestris supplementation include stomach cramps, reflux, heartburn, and in rare cases, kidney and liver failure. It can also interact with medications used to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, and blood thinners, as well as with lithium.

What is Dr. Vina Malik's conclusion regarding the effectiveness of Tribulus terrestris in increasing testosterone levels?

Dr. Vina Malik concludes that she is not convinced about the effectiveness of Tribulus terrestris in increasing testosterone levels, as the data from studies showing positive results are limited and not very encouraging.