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1. What is it and where does it come from?

Tribulus terrestris is a plant that grows in many tropical and moderate areas of the world. Many different cultures have used it for a number of conditions. For example, the Greeks used Tribulus terrestris as a diuretic and a mood-enhancer.

Indians used it as a diuretic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. The Chinese used it for a variety of liver, kidney, and cardiovascular diseases. The people of Bulgaria used Tribulus terrestris as a sex enhancer and to treat infertility. Recently, eastern European athletes and strength champions have used it as well. High quality, nutrient rich Tribulus terrestris is available from Bodybuilding.com.



2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?

Tribulus terrestris is a testosterone enhancer. Studies show that it works very well when stacked with DHEA and androstenedione. It increased testosterone levels in a different way, however, than either DHEA or andro do. Instead of being a testosterone precursor, it leads to the production of the luteinizing hormone (LH). When LH levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases. LH is a hormone that also deals with sex drive. Now one can understand why it has been used to increase fertility and help with impotence. Laboratory animal studies found that Tribulus terrestris increased sperm count as well as motility levels after taking it for 30 days.


3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
This is a good supplement for men and women to increase their sex drive. According to Bill Phillips, editor of Muscle Media, "...Tribulus terrestris can significantly "lift" performance in the bedroom." Anyone who wants to increase muscle growth (bodybuilders, athletes, etc.) would be wise to try stacking Tribulus terrestris with DHEA and andro. Since Tribulus terrestris is not an essential nutrient, it is not associated with deficiency.


4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?

Most experts recommend experimenting with 750 to 1,250 mg per day, divided among meals, and stacking it with about 100 mg per day of DHEA, along with around 100 mg per day of androstenedione to get the best results. As for side effects, about one in ten people have associated some gastrointestinal upset with taking Tribulus terrestris. Taking food with it can minimize these effects if you are that one in ten.