men's health
Tribulus the libido-boosting herb

With more and more men looking for ways to improve their sex life, why not consider that natural products can help? The traditional herb Tribulus is at the top of the list.

Used for thousands of years in both Chinese and Indian medicine, Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris) became well-known during the 90s, when many Eastern European Olympic athletes claimed that supplements of Tribulus contributed to their success. Since then, bodybuilders, athletes and people with low sex drive have been taking Tribulus in increasing numbers, and its popularity has soared worldwide as a natural libido booster.

Protodioscin
In the Indian Ayurvedic tradition, Tribulus is well-known as a restorative herb that is beneficial during times of stress and nervous tension, and for when the body needs physical support during times of increased physical demand. Native to Bulgaria and China, Tribulus has a long history of use as a powerful aphrodisiac and as a male tonic. In recent years, scientists have isolated the key active component of Tribulus – a chemical compound called protodioscin.

Protodioscin is converted in the body to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which prompts the body to produce testosterone. Testosterone is important for bone, muscle and hair growth, as well as sperm production. It also exerts a strong influence on mood and libido. As men age, a gradual reduction in testosterone levels is normal. In some men, however, this reduction is excessive and has a negative impact on health and quality of life. This state of testosterone deficiency, also known as androgen deficiency, is becoming better understood and more common in men over the age of 40. Symptoms include low sex drive, reduced energy and strength, loss of muscle, softer erections, fatigue and mood swings.

How Tribulus helps
Some of the key benefits that Tribulus has for male sexual function include:

Boosting fertility
Male fertility issues can be the result of low sperm count or motility (the ability to swim and reach the female egg), as well as low levels of testosterone. Contributing factors may include genetics, hormonal imbalance, infection, testicles being over heated and certain medications. Studies show that protodioscin has several beneficial effects on sperm production, improving the quantity and quality of sperm produced, as well as sperm motility.

Increasing libido and sexual performance
Tribulus stimulates the body to release luteinizing hormone (LH), which prompts the testes to produce testosterone. By raising testosterone levels safely and naturally, then keeping levels elevated, Tribulus helps to increase muscle strength and performance. Scientists have also speculated that the conversion of protodioscin to DHEA increases cell membrane integrity and function, resulting in better sexual performance and general well being.

Who benefits?
Tribulus extract can help to elevate testosterone levels and also keep them within normal ranges, so is an effective supplement for individuals with reduced testosterone levels. This includes men over the age of 40, athletes at risk of overtraining or men on a prolonged low-calorie diet.

In women, Tribulus extract increases libido and has a stimulatory effect on ovulation. It can also help to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes and insomnia. Women taking this herb often report increased mental alertness, enhanced stamina and reduced fatigue.

Supplementing with Tribulus
These days, many natural products claim to restore sexual vitality. This is why it’s important to take a standardised Tribulus extract guaranteed to contain the active component, protodioscin. Significant enhancement in sexual performance can take up to two or three months to notice, so it’s also important to have realistic expectations when supplementing with Tribulus – you are restoring hormonal balance, which doesn’t happen overnight. A significant body of research has demonstrated that Tribulus extract is a worthwhile, time-tested herb that can boost libido and improve energy.
The recommended dose of Tribulus is to take a standardised extract containing a minimum of 240 to 360mg daily of protodioscin. For women, it is best used on days five to 14 of the menstrual cycle for enhanced female fertility. For men, this supplement and be taken continuously.

Benefits of Tribulus

-  Improves circulation 
-  Boosts libido/sexual drive and performance
-  Improves energy levels, stamina and endurance
-  Reduces mental fatigue stress and exhaustion

What causes flagging libido?

Many factors affect libido, including your state of mind and diet. Low sexual desire can be a result of psychological problems or physical conditions. To find an effective solution, it is important to identify what has triggered it.

Possible cause may include :-

• Changes to your body as you age can affect sexual desire, including a decline in testosterone production.
• Anxiety and stress can cause a temporary or more long-term decrease in sex drive, depending on the amount being experienced.
• Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, tranquillizers and appetite suppressants, may affect sexual desire.
• Health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson's disease, endocrine or neurological disorders and chronic pain, can affect libido.
• Insomnia or inadequate amounts of sleep cause fatigue and reduced sexual desire.