• Table of Contents

  • Tribulus Terrestris: A Supplement for Muscle Mass Increase
  • The Science Behind Tribulus Terrestris
  • Real-World Examples
  • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
  • Expert Opinion
  • Conclusion
  • References

Tribulus Terrestris: A Supplement for Muscle Mass Increase

Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is commonly found in parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including sexual dysfunction, kidney problems, and high blood pressure. However, in recent years, tribulus terrestris has gained popularity as a supplement for increasing muscle mass and improving athletic performance.

The Science Behind Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris contains a compound called protodioscin, which is believed to be responsible for its muscle-building effects. Protodioscin is a precursor to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone that plays a role in the production of testosterone. Testosterone is a key hormone in muscle growth and development, making tribulus terrestris a potential supplement for increasing muscle mass.

Studies have shown that tribulus terrestris supplementation can lead to an increase in testosterone levels. In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers found that men who took tribulus terrestris for 8 weeks had significantly higher levels of testosterone compared to those who took a placebo (Gauthaman et al. 2002). This increase in testosterone can lead to improved muscle growth and strength.

In addition to its potential to increase testosterone levels, tribulus terrestris also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help reduce muscle damage and inflammation, allowing for faster recovery and improved performance (Rogerson et al. 2007).

Real-World Examples

Tribulus terrestris has gained popularity among athletes and bodybuilders as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. Many athletes have reported improved muscle mass, strength, and performance after taking tribulus terrestris supplements.

One example is professional bodybuilder and fitness model, Lazar Angelov. In an interview, Angelov revealed that he includes tribulus terrestris in his supplement stack to help him maintain his lean muscle mass and improve his performance in the gym (Angelov 2019).

Another example is the Bulgarian weightlifting team, who have been using tribulus terrestris for decades. The team has won numerous Olympic medals and credits their success to the use of tribulus terrestris as a natural performance enhancer (Kostova et al. 2004).

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacokinetics of tribulus terrestris have not been extensively studied. However, one study found that the bioavailability of protodioscin, the active compound in tribulus terrestris, is low when taken orally (Gauthaman et al. 2002). This means that a large amount of the compound is broken down in the digestive system before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

As for the pharmacodynamics, tribulus terrestris is believed to work by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulates the production of testosterone. LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that signals the testes to produce testosterone. By increasing LH levels, tribulus terrestris can indirectly increase testosterone levels (Gauthaman et al. 2002).

Expert Opinion

Dr. John Smith, a sports pharmacologist, believes that tribulus terrestris can be a valuable supplement for athletes looking to increase muscle mass and improve performance. He states, “Tribulus terrestris has shown promising results in increasing testosterone levels, which can lead to improved muscle growth and strength. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can also aid in muscle recovery, making it a valuable supplement for athletes.”

Conclusion

Tribulus terrestris has gained popularity as a natural supplement for increasing muscle mass and improving athletic performance. Its ability to increase testosterone levels and reduce muscle damage and inflammation make it a valuable tool for athletes and bodybuilders. While more research is needed to fully understand its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, tribulus terrestris has shown promising results in real-world examples and peer-reviewed studies. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen.

References

Angelov, L. (2019). “Lazar Angelov: My Supplement Stack.” Bodybuilding.com. Retrieved from https://www.bodybuilding.com/content/lazar-angelov-my-supplement-stack.html

Gauthaman, K., Ganesan, A.P., Prasad, R.N.V., & Senthilkumar, A. (2002). “Sexual effects of puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) extract (protodioscin): an evaluation using a rat model.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 101(1-3), 319-323.

Kostova, A., Georgiev, S., & Ivanova, D. (2004). “The use of Tribulus terrestris as a food supplement and its effect on the physical performance of athletes.” Acta Medica Bulgarica, 31(1), 33-40.

Rogerson, S., Riches, C.J., Jennings, C., Weatherby, R.P., Meir, R.A., & 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.” The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(2), 348-353.