Tribulus terrestris is a flowering plant mainly found in tropical areas. This plant has been known and used by people from all over the world to treat many diseases for a few centuries. In Greece, tribulus terrestris is used to treat diuretic problems. In China, it is used to relieve headache and early ejaculation. In Turkey, it is mainly used to treat hypertension and cholesterol problems. What benefits can it offer for bodybuilders?
Testosterone, a hormone naturally produced in human body plays a great role in building muscle. Many bodybuilders use prohormone supplements to increase the secretion of testosterone despite their side effects. Some prohormone products are believed to cause a few side effects such as the increase of prostate size, hair loss, gynecomastia, cancer, and so on. In females, the use of prohormones may lead to increase in testosterone levels. This can cause them to look and sound like a man as facial hair appears and their voices become deeper. Excess amounts of prohormone use may even lead to liver and kidney damages.
Tribulus terrestris is believed to be a safer way to increase testosterone levels in human body. When people are following a diet or doing high intensity training, the hormone secretion decreases and makes it hard to gain muscle mass. Unlike prohormones, tribulus terrestris increase is claimed to be effective on increasing the LH (Luteinizing Hormone) levels. The increase of LH levels automatically signals the body to produce more testosterone. With the high levels of testosterone, a bodybuilder can build muscle more easily.
The effectiveness of tribulus terrestris in bodybuilding is still debatable. A number of studies on animals have demonstrated that tribulus terrestris can increase testosterone levels that enhance sexual activity. Some studies done on human demonstrated that tribulus showed no effect on improving muscle strength and body composition. Some bodybuilders who have experience on using it claim it to be effective while some others claim the opposite.
Tribulus terrestris gives different result to each individual. Despite its questionable effectiveness in bodybuilding, it is often taken by bodybuilders in their off cycles to regain their normal testosterone levels. Most users have given positive reviews, although the claims of the effectiveness of tribulus terrestris are mostly personal.
The side effects of taking tribulus are rare and insignificant. For those of you who want to boost your testosterone levels but are reluctant to take steroids, you can give it a try.
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