A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review including randomized controlled trials
PubMed 24559105 · doi:10.3109/19390211.2014.887602
What was done
Authors conducted a systematic review across seven databases and a patent database through August 2013 to assess the effects of Tribulus terrestris on testosterone in humans and animals. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials in healthy humans receiving Tribulus terrestris alone or in combination, and animal studies administering it as a sole agent. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria, including one patent application.
What was found
The abstract reports no numerical values, effect sizes, or confidence intervals. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to heterogeneity in dosage, duration, and co-interventions. Significant increases in serum testosterone were reported in a limited number of animal studies, but in humans an increase occurred only when Tribulus terrestris was co-administered with other ingredients. Standalone Tribulus terrestris showed no effect on human testosterone concentrations.
Why it matters
This review contradicts widespread athletic and bodybuilding marketing claims by demonstrating that standalone Tribulus terrestris does not enhance human testosterone.
Limits
The abstract reports no numerical data, exact participant numbers, or effect estimates. The available evidence base is small and heterogeneous, and studies evaluating combination products prevent isolating the specific contribution of Tribulus terrestris.
Cited by
- supports Supplements like tribulus, D-aspartic acid, and fenugreek have been disproven as effective testosterone boosters.