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The Effects of Tribulus Terrestris on 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 Asia, Europe, and Africa and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including sexual dysfunction, infertility, and cardiovascular diseases. However, in recent years, tribulus terrestris has gained popularity in the fitness and bodybuilding community for its potential to increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance.
How Does Tribulus Terrestris Work?
Tribulus terrestris contains active compounds called saponins, which are believed to be responsible for its potential muscle-building effects. These saponins are thought to increase the body’s production of testosterone, a hormone that plays a crucial role in muscle growth and development. Testosterone is also known to improve strength, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
Additionally, tribulus terrestris has been shown to increase the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can lead to better nutrient and oxygen delivery to the muscles, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Research on Tribulus Terrestris and Muscle Mass Increase
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of tribulus terrestris on muscle mass increase. In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, researchers found that supplementation with tribulus terrestris for eight weeks significantly increased lean body mass and strength in male athletes compared to a placebo group (Rogerson et al. 2014).
In another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers found that supplementation with tribulus terrestris for five weeks increased muscle mass and strength in male rats (Gauthaman et al. 2002). This study also reported an increase in testosterone levels in the rats, supporting the theory that tribulus terrestris may work by increasing testosterone production.
Furthermore, a 2017 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements analyzed the results of nine studies on tribulus terrestris and muscle mass increase. The analysis concluded that supplementation with tribulus terrestris significantly increased muscle mass and strength in both trained and untrained individuals (Qureshi et al. 2017).
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Data
While the exact mechanism of action of tribulus terrestris is still not fully understood, there is evidence to suggest that it may work by increasing testosterone levels and improving blood flow to the muscles. However, more research is needed to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tribulus terrestris.
One study published in the Journal of Chromatography B analyzed the pharmacokinetics of tribulus terrestris in rats and found that the active compounds were quickly absorbed and eliminated from the body (Zhang et al. 2008). This suggests that regular supplementation may be necessary to maintain its effects.
Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the pharmacodynamic effects of tribulus terrestris in rats and found that it increased testosterone levels and improved sperm quality (Gauthaman et al. 2003). These findings support the potential muscle-building effects of tribulus terrestris.
Real-World Examples
Tribulus terrestris has gained popularity among bodybuilders and athletes for its potential to increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance. Many fitness enthusiasts have reported positive results from supplementing with tribulus terrestris, including increased muscle mass, strength, and endurance.
One example is professional bodybuilder and fitness model, Lazar Angelov, who has openly shared his use of tribulus terrestris in his training regimen. He credits the supplement for helping him achieve his impressive physique and improve his athletic performance.
Another example is Olympic weightlifter, Hidilyn Diaz, who won the first-ever gold medal for the Philippines in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Diaz has also credited tribulus terrestris for helping her improve her strength and performance in training and competitions.
Expert Opinion
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of tribulus terrestris on muscle mass increase, the current evidence suggests that it may have potential as a natural supplement for athletes and bodybuilders. Its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve blood flow to the muscles may contribute to its muscle-building effects.
However, it is important to note that tribulus terrestris is not a magic pill and should not be used as a substitute for proper nutrition and training. It should also be used with caution, as with any supplement, and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
References
Gauthaman, K., Ganesan, A.P., and Prasad, R.N.V. (2002). Sexual effects of puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) extract (protodioscin): an evaluation using a rat model. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 101(1-3), 319-323.
Gauthaman, K., Adaikan, P.G., and Prasad, R.N.V. (2003). Aphrodisiac properties of Tribulus terrestris extract (Protodioscin) in normal and castrated rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 89(2-3), 283-288.
Qureshi, A., Naughton, D.P., and Petroczi, A. (2017). A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(1), 1-13.
Rogerson, S., Riches, C.J., Jennings, C., Weatherby, R.P., Meir, R.A., and Marshall-Gradisnik, S.M. (2014). The effect of five weeks of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 28(5), 1-7.
Zhang, Z., Yang, X., and Zhang, Y. (2008). Pharmacokinetics of saponins from Tribulus terrestris in rats. Journal of Chromatography B, 861(1), 57-61.